Best new films of 2026: 26 movies to look forward to

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Last year saw a fantastic lineup of new movies, including popular horror films like Sinners and Weapons, and unique, ambitious stories like Marty Supreme and One Battle After Another. And it looks like 2026 will bring even more great films!

UK moviegoers can look forward to several films that were popular in the US last year, with “Hamnet,” “The Secret Agent,” and “The Testament of Ann Lee” expected to be highlights in January and February.

This sets the stage for an exciting 2026 lineup, featuring new movies from acclaimed directors like Christopher Nolan and Steven Spielberg. We can also expect big franchise films such as the next installment of Dune and the latest Avengers adventure, alongside potentially buzzworthy projects like Emerald Fennell’s take on Wuthering Heights.

This list only includes movies that currently have confirmed release dates in the UK. We expect many more major films to be added to the schedule soon. Directors like David Fincher, Robert Eggers, Greta Gerwig, Joel Coen, and Luca Guadagnino all have upcoming films that will likely premiere at major film festivals later this year.

This isn’t a complete list, of course. Many other films premiered at festivals last year, like If I Had Legs I’d Kick You and Splitsville. Plus, there were new horror sequels and reboots, including Evil Dead: Burn, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, and Resident Evil, which was interestingly directed by Zach Cregger, known for his work on Weapons.

New movies from well-known directors like Sam Raimi (Send Help), M. Night Shyamalan (Remain), and Rob Savage (The Other Mommy) are coming out, alongside family-friendly options such as The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Disney’s Hexed, and the live-action Moana remake.

No matter how much we try to predict what will be popular, one of the best things about each year is the unexpected success of smaller, lesser-known films. The very best movie of 2026 could be something we haven’t even heard of yet!

But for now, read on for 26 films that we’re especially excited about in 2026.

1. Hamnet

UK release date: Friday 9th January 2026

Chloé Zhao directs this highly anticipated film, based on Maggie O’Farrell’s popular novel, starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal. The story delves into the personal sorrow and grief that inspired William Shakespeare to write his famous play, Hamlet.

Critics are loving this adaptation, and we gave it a full 5 stars! It’s expected to be a strong contender for awards, especially with Jessie Buckley receiving high praise for her portrayal of Agnes. However, be prepared for a very emotional and heartbreaking story – you might want to bring tissues!

2. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple

UK release date: Friday 16th January 2026

Just under a year after the last movie left audiences wanting more, we’re back in the world of 28 Years Later with a new sequel. This time, Nia DaCosta directs, taking over from Danny Boyle. This is the second film in a planned trilogy.

Critics at RT praised ’28 Years Later’ as a major hit in 2025, and fans are eager for this new sequel. Director Justin Kurzel faces the challenge of following up the first film’s intense finale and expanding on the character of Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal, a disturbingly charismatic cult leader played by Jack O’Connell. All the elements are in place for another successful movie.

3. No Other Choice

UK release date: Friday 23rd January 2026

Okay, so Park Chan-wook – the director behind some seriously amazing films – has a new one out, and it’s a real trip. It’s darkly funny, but also kinda heartbreaking. It stars Lee Byung-hun, you might recognize him from Squid Game, and he plays a guy who loses his job after 25 years. He gets desperate to find a new one, and let me tell you, he goes to some seriously wild lengths to do it. It’s a satire, so it’s making a point, but it’s done in a really clever, messed-up way.

According to RT, Director Park remains a highly skilled visual storyteller, and his newest film is no exception. The movie is a funny and relevant critique of modern capitalism, filled with impressive and sometimes intense action sequences.

4. Wuthering Heights

UK release date: Friday 13th February 2026

Emily Brontë’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights, has been made into a movie many times. Now, director Emerald Fennell, known for Saltburn and Promising Young Woman, presents a fresh adaptation, featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as the characters Cathy and Heathcliff.

Even before it comes out, this movie is shaping up to be a major talking point in 2026. The casting and trailer have already sparked a lot of debate, and considering the director’s previous work, it’s safe to say it won’t be dull.

5. The Testament of Ann Lee

UK release date: Friday 20th February 2026

Amanda Seyfried stars in Mona Fastvold’s captivating musical, based on the true story of Ann Lee, who founded the Shakers – a unique and influential religious group – in 18th-century England. The film shows how she gathered a dedicated community of followers while facing potential persecution.

RT believes this film is a truly original and exceptional work, surprisingly overlooked by many awards shows. It’s one of the best new films in recent memory, with outstanding performances, beautiful sets, a moving score, and stunning choreography all coming together to create a captivating and deeply impactful experience. It’s a must-see.

6. The Secret Agent

UK release date: Friday 20th February 2026

The new film by Brazilian director Kleber Mendonça Filho features Wagner Moura, known from the series Narcos, as a professor caught up in the political unrest of 1970s Brazil. He’s forced to go on the run to escape persecution during the country’s military dictatorship.

Wagner Moura won Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival last year for his role in this highly praised film, and it’s now a strong contender for the Best International Feature Oscar. It’s a gripping, complex drama that will stay with you long after you’ve seen it.

7. Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man

UK release date: Friday 6th March 2026

Steven Knight, the creator of the hit TV show, is adapting his popular gangster story for a movie, three years after the show finished. Cillian Murphy will return, joined by stars like Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth. The film will be shown in select theaters before becoming available on Netflix.

According to RT, if you enjoy the original show, you’ll likely be interested in this new installment. It promises to deliver the familiar elements fans love, but with a more cinematic feel. It might also set up storylines for a planned sequel series.

8. The Bride

UK release date: Friday 6th March 2026

Maggie Gyllenhaal’s new film is a modern take on the classic monster story, inspired by the 1935 film The Bride of Frankenstein. Jessie Buckley stars as the Bride, with Christian Bale playing Frankenstein’s Monster. The movie also features Penélope Cruz, Annette Bening, and Maggie Gyllenhaal’s brother, Jake Gyllenhaal. Originally planned for release in 2025, it’s now coming out this year.

It’s a fantastic time for updated versions of classic monster movies, like the recent takes on Nosferatu and Frankenstein. Maggie Gyllenhaal’s new film about The Bride of Frankenstein looks visually striking and interestingly unique. Hopefully, the movie lives up to that initial impression.

9. Project Hail Mary

UK release date: Friday 20th March 2026

In this science fiction film, Ryan Gosling plays an astronaut who wakes up from a coma with no recollection of his space mission. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller and based on Andy Weir’s 2021 novel, the movie also features Sandra Hüller, Lionel Boyce, and Ken Leung.

I’m really excited about this movie! I’ve been hearing amazing things from early test screenings – people are absolutely loving it. I’m hoping it’s a sign of great things to come for sci-fi films that aren’t part of a big franchise this year. It feels like we’re due for some fresh, original stories!

10. The Dog Stars

UK release date: Friday 27th March 2026

Ridley Scott’s latest film is a thrilling post-apocalyptic story about survival. It follows a pilot, Jacob Elordi, and a former marine, Josh Brolin, as they navigate a world devastated by a near-fatal flu. The film also features Margaret Qualley and Guy Pearce.

Scott is known for being confident about his work, and he’s already calling his newest film potentially his best. Considering he directed classics like Alien and Blade Runner, that’s a pretty bold claim – and it definitely makes the movie worth checking out, especially with the talented actors involved.

11. The Magic Faraway Tree

UK release date: Friday 27th March 2026

Simon Farnaby, known for his role in ‘Ghosts,’ has brought Enid Blyton’s beloved children’s story about a magical tree to the movies. The film boasts a stellar cast including Claire Foy, Andrew Garfield, and Nicola Coughlan.

RT notes that this film looks like a wonderful, family-friendly experience, full of nostalgia. It’s based on a beloved story and written by the creator of the popular Paddington and Wonka movies, suggesting it will be a delightful treat for all ages.

12. The Drama

UK release date: Friday 3rd April 2026

I’m really excited about this new movie! Robert Pattinson and Zendaya are playing a couple who just got engaged, and it’s directed by the same person who did ‘Dream Scenario.’ From what I’ve heard, one of them finds out something really disturbing about the other, but they’re keeping most of the details a secret, which just makes it even more intriguing!

We were already excited about this movie because of its two main stars, but the secretive storyline has made us even more interested. The director impressed us with his last film, and early reviews hint that this one might be even better.

13. Michael

UK release date: Friday 24th April 2026

Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming film explores the life of Michael Jackson, aiming to show a realistic and honest portrayal of the iconic singer, not just a polished version. Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play him in the movie, and the cast also includes Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, and Laura Harrier. Originally planned for release last year, the film faced delays due to additional filming.

Considering the intense debate surrounding Michael Jackson’s life and work, this film is sure to spark a lot of discussion. Because the film was made with the cooperation of his family, it’s unclear whether it will offer a completely honest and revealing look at his life – as some viewers might expect. However, it’s definitely a film to watch.

14. The Devil Wears Prada 2

UK release date: Friday 1st May 2026

I was so excited to hear that Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci are all back for the sequel! The first movie was hilarious and endlessly quotable, and it’s amazing they’re reuniting. Plus, adding stars like Sir Kenneth Branagh, Simone Ashley, and Lucy Liu to the mix? It’s going to be fantastic!

RT notes that the upcoming sequel brings back the entire cast of a hugely popular 21st-century comedy. It’s expected to be a hit, and it will be fascinating to see how the characters have changed and adapted to today’s fashion world and media landscape, which are very different from what was shown in the original movie.

15. The Mandalorian and Grogu

UK release date: Friday 22nd May 2026

This new Star Wars movie picks up the story from the Disney+ series The Mandalorian. It’s the first Star Wars film since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker, which wasn’t well-received by fans. Pedro Pascal will return, and he’ll be joined by Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.

Besides the excellent reception of the series Andor, the Star Wars franchise has faced challenges recently. There’s some uncertainty about whether this new film can revitalize the series’ future in theaters. Will it succeed and silence the critics?

16. Disclosure Day

UK release date: Friday 12th June 2026

Steven Spielberg’s latest film explores the idea of UFOs and life beyond Earth, featuring Josh O’Connor, Emily Blunt, and Colin Firth. The movie poses a thought-provoking question: would you be scared to discover we aren’t the only ones?

It’s been a while since Steven Spielberg directed a science fiction film, but he’s known for making great ones – and if this new movie is anywhere near as good as classics like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and E.T., it will be truly exceptional. The film boasts a fantastic cast and the trailer looks very promising, so it’s off to a good start.

17. Toy Story 5

UK release date: Friday 19th June 2026

Pixar is revisiting its most popular franchise with a fifth movie starring Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang. This time, they’ll face a new challenge to playtime in the form of Lilypad, a tablet shaped like a frog and voiced by Greta Lee.

Pixar has been successful with sequels financially, though they haven’t always received the same critical acclaim as their earlier films. Still, many are eager to revisit the world of ‘Toy Story,’ and fans hope the new story lives up to the quality of its characters.

18. Supergirl

UK release date: Friday 26th June 2026

The next installment in James Gunn’s new DC Universe focuses on Supergirl, played by Milly Alcock, who made a quick appearance in the first film, Superman. This movie will follow her on a galaxy-spanning mission driven by a desire for revenge, and it’s directed by Craig Gillespie, known for Cruella.

RT notes that Superman laid the groundwork for the current DC Universe, and it will be exciting to see how the next film continues that progress. Actress Milly Alcock has already demonstrated her captivating screen presence, notably as young Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon, and this role could be her breakthrough to leading movie roles.

19. The Odyssey

UK release date: Friday 17th July 2026

Following the success of his Oscar-winning film Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan is now tackling a new large-scale project: an adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey. The film boasts a massive cast, led by Matt Damon, and also features major stars like Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Robert Pattinson in significant roles.

Everyone was eager to see what Christopher Nolan would do after the huge success of Oppenheimer, and he’s already proving he’s not slowing down. This new project has a fantastic story, a brilliant cast, and a director working at the peak of his abilities – it looks like a guaranteed success.

20. Spider-Man: Brand New Day

UK release date: Friday 31st July 2026

Tom Holland will return as Spider-Man in one of two big Marvel movies planned for 2026, as the franchise aims to regain its momentum. This film will follow up on the events of 2021’s Spider-Man: No Way Home and begin a fresh storyline for the character, with Sadie Sink, known for her role in Stranger Things, joining the cast.

It feels like ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ was the last Marvel movie to truly excite audiences in theaters. Spider-Man remains incredibly popular, even though overall interest in the Marvel franchise has decreased. This new film offers the best chance yet for Marvel to regain its previous box office success.

21. Flowervale Street

UK release date: Friday 14th August 2026

David Robert Mitchell, known for directing ‘It Follows’, returns with a new sci-fi thriller, his first film since 2018’s ‘Under the Silver Lake’. Starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor, the movie centers on a family who begin to experience strange events in their community, with speculation suggesting time travel plays a role.

David Robert Mitchell gained attention with his 2014 horror film, It Follows, but his next movie, Under the Silver Lake (2018), received mixed reviews. This new film is his first project since then, and fans are eagerly anticipating it, hoping for something special while details about the story remain mysterious.

22. Digger

UK release date: Friday 2nd October 2026

The new black comedy film is directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, the Oscar-winning director behind Birdman and The Revenant, and stars Tom Cruise. While the story is currently being kept secret, the film also features a strong supporting cast including Jesse Plemons, Sandra Hüller, John Goodman, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Riz Ahmed.

Tom Cruise, following the latest Mission: Impossible movie, has indicated he’s looking to focus on character-driven, director-led films similar to those he made earlier in his career. This new project appears to be his first step in that direction, and early details suggest it will be a compelling and interesting film.

23. The Social Reckoning

UK release date: Friday 9th October 2026

This film revisits the story of Facebook, focusing on the 2021 data leak. Jeremy Allen White stars as Mark Zuckerberg, taking over the role from Jesse Eisenberg. Aaron Sorkin returns to write the script and also directs, stepping in for David Fincher.

RT notes that The Social Network is a highly praised film of the 2000s, and while director David Fincher often gets the credit, Aaron Sorkin’s writing was also exceptional. The question now is whether these two talents can collaborate on another success.

24. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping

UK release date: Friday 20th November 2026

The newest installment in the Hunger Games series is based on the book ‘Sunrise on the Reaping.’ It tells the story of a young Haymitch Abernathy as he competes in the 50th Hunger Games. The film stars Whitney Peak and Joseph Zada as the leads, alongside well-known actors like Jesse Plemons, Ralph Fiennes, Kieran Culkin, Elle Fanning, Mckenna Grace, and Glenn Close.

For fans of The Hunger Games, this new movie is highly anticipated – it was actually announced before the book was even released! With a strong cast, including potential appearances from Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, and the experienced Francis Lawrence directing, it’s likely to satisfy longtime fans of the series.

25. Avengers: Doomsday

UK release date: Friday 18th December 2026

The next Avengers film, following 2019’s Endgame, will bring back familiar faces. Directors Joe and Anthony Russo are returning, and Chris Evans will reprise his role as Steve Rogers. Robert Downey Jr. will star as the villain Doctor Doom, and the Avengers will join forces with the Wakandans, Fantastic Four, New Avengers, and the original X-Men to defeat him.

Recent Marvel movies have often been presented as potential comebacks to their earlier success, and that’s especially true for this new film. The big question is: will it revitalize the franchise, or signal its decline?

26. Dune: Part Three

UK release date: Friday 18th December 2026

Denis Villeneuve concludes his Dune saga with the third film, adapted from Frank Herbert’s novel, Dune: Messiah. The returning cast includes Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Josh Brolin, and Rebecca Ferguson, with Robert Pattinson joining them as a key new member.

Considering Denis Villeneuve’s success with the first two Dune movies, the upcoming film promises to be another impressive science fiction experience, even though the book it’s based on isn’t as dramatic. Timothée Chalamet’s critically acclaimed performance in Wonka has solidified his status as a leading actor, and many hope this third Dune film will be the perfect conclusion to what could be one of the greatest movie trilogies in recent years.

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Authors

Patrick CremonaSenior Film Writer

Patrick Cremona writes about movies for TopMob, covering new releases in theaters and on streaming platforms. He’s been with the site since October 2019, and during that time has interviewed many famous actors and reviewed films of all kinds.

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2026-01-09 10:40