What Are the Must-See Films Coming in 2026?

The film industry is buzzing with anticipation for 2026, as several major releases are set to potentially replicate the box office success observed with Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer and Barbie in 2023. Among the most eagerly awaited films are Nolan's The Odyssey, the fourth Spider-Man movie starring Tom Holland, and sequels to beloved franchises such as Super Mario and The Devil Wears Prada. With Oscar contenders and blockbuster potential, 2026 could mark a significant rebound for cinema, still recovering from the pandemic's impact.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The film industry is on the cusp of a significant revival as 2026 approaches. Following the pandemic, which severely impacted cinema attendance, there is renewed hope that upcoming films will draw audiences back into theatres. With major titles set to release throughout the year, including Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, the industry is optimistic that these films could mirror the success of 2023's Oppenheimer and Barbie, which brought substantial crowds and revenue back to cinemas.

Key takeaways

2026 features highly anticipated films, including Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey.
Sequels to popular franchises like Spider-Man and Super Mario are expected to attract large audiences.
Oscar contenders such as Hamnet could bolster cinema attendance and prestige.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the film industry has faced unprecedented challenges, leading to a significant decline in box office revenue. Here’s a brief timeline of key events leading up to 2026:

March 2020: The pandemic leads to widespread cinema closures worldwide.
May 2021: Cinemas begin to reopen in the UK with safety measures in place.
July 2023: Nolan’s Oppenheimer and Barbie achieve box office success, signalling a potential recovery.
January 2026: Major releases like Hamnet and sequels begin to hit theatres.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent announcements and trailers have heightened anticipation for 2026 films, particularly for The Odyssey, which is expected to delve into the complexities of Odysseus's journey in a unique way. The cast includes Matt Damon in the lead role, and early teasers have sparked discussions about the film's thematic depth.

What was already established

Prior to 2026, the film landscape has been evolving with a focus on high-profile sequels and adaptations. The success of animated films like The Super Mario Bros. Movie has demonstrated a growing audience for family-friendly content, while the return of established franchises like The Devil Wears Prada suggests a blend of nostalgia and new storytelling.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

With several blockbuster films scheduled for release, UK cinema-goers can expect an influx of options that cater to diverse tastes. Family films are likely to attract younger audiences, while Oscar contenders may draw in older viewers. This could lead to increased cinema attendance, positively affecting local economies.

Businesses and jobs

The film industry’s recovery will have significant implications for businesses associated with cinema, including concessions, merchandising, and local advertising. Increased foot traffic can also benefit nearby restaurants and shops. Additionally, production jobs will be bolstered as studios ramp up filming schedules to meet the demand for new content.

Policy and regulation

The UK government has been supportive of the film industry, recognising its importance to cultural identity and the economy. As cinemas reopen fully, there may be ongoing discussions about funding and support for independent filmmakers, as well as regulations to ensure safety in theatres.

Numbers that matter

£1 billion: The anticipated box office revenue from major 2026 releases.
20+: The number of high-profile films expected to release in 2026.
5: The potential number of Oscar nominations for films like Hamnet.
30%: Estimated increase in cinema attendance compared to 2025.
2: Major sequels (Super Mario and The Devil Wears Prada) expected to top box office charts.

Definitions and jargon buster

Blockbuster: A film that is highly successful in terms of box office revenue.
Box Office: The commercial reception of a film, measured by ticket sales.
Oscar hopeful: A film considered as a potential nominee for Academy Awards.
Franchise: A series of related films or productions that share characters or themes.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the first films begin to release in January 2026, audiences will likely flock to cinemas. Marketing campaigns will ramp up, and early box office predictions will start to emerge.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Throughout the year, films will be released in waves, with larger titles likely to dominate during school holidays and festive seasons. Industry analysts will monitor audience reactions and box office performance closely.

Signals to watch

Box office earnings over the first weekend of each major release.
Audience reception and critical reviews, particularly for Oscar contenders.
Trends in cinema attendance compared to previous years.

Practical guidance

Do

Plan your cinema visits during peak times to catch the most talked-about films.
Stay updated on release dates and trailers to build excitement.
Consider exploring independent films that may also be releasing alongside blockbusters.

Don’t

Don’t assume all major films will be hits; watch trailers and read reviews first.
Don’t overlook smaller releases that could surprise audiences and critics.
Don’t forget to support local cinemas, which are vital for community culture.

Checklist

Check upcoming release dates for films you’re interested in.
Watch trailers to gauge whether a film matches your taste.
Make plans with friends or family to attend screenings together.
Set reminders for Oscar nominations to track potential award-winning films.
Explore local cinema listings for special screenings or events.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the outlook for 2026 appears promising, several uncertainties remain. The ongoing effects of the pandemic could still influence audience comfort levels in returning to cinemas. Additionally, box office success is not guaranteed; films may not perform as expected, impacting future productions. Cultural shifts in viewing habits may also affect attendance, especially with the rise of streaming services offering alternative viewing options.

Bottom line

The film landscape in 2026 is set for a significant revival, driven by highly anticipated releases that could draw audiences back to theatres. With a mix of sequels, adaptations, and original stories, this year promises to be pivotal in restoring cinema's cultural and economic status in the UK. Staying informed about upcoming films and their reception will be key for audiences and industry stakeholders alike.

FAQs

What is The Odyssey about?

The Odyssey is Christopher Nolan's upcoming film based on Homer's epic, focusing on Odysseus's challenging journey home after the Trojan War, starring Matt Damon.

When will major films start releasing in 2026?

The first major releases are scheduled for January 2026, with films like Hamnet and the fourth Spider-Man movie expected to hit theatres early in the year.

How can I support my local cinema?

You can support local cinemas by attending screenings, purchasing refreshments, and promoting their events on social media, helping to sustain community culture.