2026 is poised to be an extraordinary year for cinema, marked by the return of legendary directors, massive franchise expansions, and some of the most anticipated sequels of the decade. From the resurrection of the MCU to the conclusion of the Dune saga, here are the biggest Hollywood releases coming your way in 2026.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Alex Garland, this sequel follows the 2025 revival and shifts the focus from the infected to the “inhumanity of survivors.” The story centers on young Spike (Alfie Williams) being drafted into a disturbing cult led by the mercurial Sir Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell), while Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) develops a world-altering relationship with a sophisticated “Alpha” infected named Samson. Shot back-to-back with its predecessor, the film is described as a “weird and deranged” nightmare that finally marks the onscreen return of Cillian Murphy’s iconic character, Jim.
Wuthering Heights
Release Date: February 13, 2026
Emerald Fennell, the visionary behind Saltburn, brings a modern, gothic edge to Emily Brontë’s classic novel. Starring Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, this adaptation promises to be a visually lush and emotionally volatile exploration of obsession and revenge, perfectly timed for a Valentine’s Day weekend release.
Michael
Release Date: April 24, 2026
One of the most talked-about biopics in years, Michael stars Jaafar Jackson in the role of his uncle, Michael Jackson. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film aims to provide an “honest and riveting” portrayal of the King of Pop’s life, from his childhood stardom to his complicated legacy. The supporting cast includes Colman Domingo and Miles Teller.
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Release Date: May 1, 2026
Twenty years after the original, Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway return to the world of Runway. The story reportedly follows Miranda Priestly at the end of her career, facing the decline of traditional magazine publishing, while her former assistant Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt) has become a high-powered executive at a luxury fashion group.
The Mandalorian & Grogu
Release Date: May 22, 2026
Jon Favreau brings Din Djarin and the beloved Baby Yoda to the big screen for the first time. This feature film serves as a direct continuation of the Disney+ series, marking Star Wars’ return to theatres for the first time since 2019. Expect a high-stakes adventure that bridges the gap between the New Republic and the rise of the First Order.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
Release Date: June 26, 2026
Milly Alcock makes her debut as the Woman of Tomorrow in this space-faring epic directed by Craig Gillespie. Unlike the traditional “Girl of Steel,” this version is inspired by Tom King’s comic run, featuring a more hardened, battle-weary Kara Zor-El who has witnessed the destruction of her world firsthand.
Moana
Release Date: July 10, 2026
Disney’s live-action reimagining of its 2016 animated hit arrives just in time for the original film’s 10th anniversary. Dwayne Johnson returns to play the demigod Maui in the flesh, while Catherine Laga‘aia takes on the titular role of the wayfinder.
The Odyssey
Release Date: July 17, 2026
Christopher Nolan returns with what is being described as a massive sci-fi reimagining of the ancient Greek epic. Starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland, and Anne Hathaway, the film is shrouded in secrecy but is expected to feature Nolan’s signature mind-bending scale and practical effects.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Release Date: July 31, 2026
While the official plot synopsis remains strictly under wraps at Marvel and Sony, recent industry leaks and production updates have finally given us a clear picture of what to expect from Spider-Man: Brand New Day. According to a synopsis on IMDb the plot follows Peter Parker as he “tries to focus on college and leave Spider-Man behind. But when a new threat endangers his friends, he must break his promise and suit up again, teaming with an unexpected ally to protect those he loves.”
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Release Date: November 20, 2026
Panem returns to the screen with a prequel centered on the 50th Hunger Games – the Second Quarter Quell. The story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy as he navigates the deadliest arena in the history of the games, explaining how he became the cynical mentor we meet in the original trilogy.
Avengers: Doomsday
Release Date: December 18, 2026
The Russo Brothers are set to make their comeback to the MCU for its biggest event since Endgame. The film marks the shocking return of Robert Downey Jr., not as Iron Man, but as the villainous Doctor Doom. This multiversal epic is expected to feature the Fantastic Four and the new generation of Avengers.
Dune: Part Three
Release Date: December 18, 2026
Denis Villeneuve concludes his adaptation of Frank Herbert’s work with Dune Messiah. Set years after the second film, it follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as the Emperor of the Known Universe, dealing with the consequences of his holy war. With a release date currently clashing with Avengers, industry experts are watching for a potential “Dunesday” box office battle.
