As we kick off the brand new year of 2026, movie lovers have plenty to look forward to. From epic blockbusters to literary adaptations, this year’s lineup promises something for everyone. Here are some of the most anticipated films of the year to keep an eye on.
“The Odyssey”
From Christopher Nolan, the visionary director behind “Dunkirk,” “Oppenheimer” and “The Dark Knight” trilogy, comes a new story of Trojan proportions. Set in the aftermath of the Trojan war, “The Odyssey” tells the story of the legendary hero Odysseus on his long and perilous voyage home to Ithaca.
On July 17, follow Odysseus as he braves cyclopes, sirens and the witch Circe on a journey to reunite with his wife, Penelope. Matt Damon stars as the titular Odysseus, joined by a star-studded ensemble that includes Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson and Zendaya.
“Spiderman: Brand New Day” and “Avengers: Doomsday”
The Avengers will return in full force this year with two major additions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. On July 31, Peter Parker swings back onto the big screen in “Spiderman: Brand New Day,” grappling with his new reality after tampering with the multiverse. Forgotten by the world, Peter Parker returns to fighting street-level crime.
Later this year, on Dec. 18 “Avengers: Doomsday” brings together a host of familiar faces including Thor and Captain America, along with crossover appearances from the X-Men. Together, they face one of Marvel’s most formidable opponents yet: Doctor Doom.
“The Hunger Games: Sunrise On the Reaping”
Suzanne Collins’ newest return to the world of Panem tells the story of Haymitch Abernathy and his victory in the 50th Hunger Games. On Nov. 20, explore a young Haymitch’s journey and how he eventually became a key figure in the rebellion as seen in the original films.
Joseph Zada takes on the role of Haymitch Abernathy, Ralph Fiennes stars as President Snow and McKenna Grace plays Maysilee Donner.
“Dune: Part 3”
Return to the spice planet Arrakis on Dec. 18 with the continuation of Denis Villeneuve’s epic “Dune” saga. Set 12 years after the events of “Dune: Part 2,” the film adapts Frank Herbert’s novel “Dune: Messiah.”
While Denis Villeneuve claims this is his last “Dune” film, he leaves the door open to other directors taking charge of the remaining three “Dune” novels. Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh and Anya Taylor-Joy all reprise their roles.
“Wuthering Heights”
Margot Robbie stars Cathy Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff in this new adaption of Emily Brontë’s acclaimed novel. Releasing Feb. 13, the film tells the tragic story of two star-crossed lovers divided by social class and circumstance.
A hallmark of Gothic literature, “Wuthering Heights” explores themes of race, social hierarchy and revenge while confronting difficult topics such as domestic abuse and challenging the rigid Victorian morality of its time.
Grab some popcorn and settle in, because this year is shaping up to be a massive year for film. With superheroes, sweeping epics and timeless romance, this year’s releases truly have a little something for everyone.
