2026 is set to be a significant year for film enthusiasts, with a host of highly anticipated releases set to hit screens large and small from January onwards.
Sequels and franchise expansions dominate the list of the most anticipated films, with new chapters in major blockbusters such as Dune, The Hunger Games, Spider-Man, and 28 Years Later, alongside long-awaited returns like The Devil Wears Prada.
Science fiction is another defining theme of the year. The genre is spearheaded by a Steven Spielberg project rumoured to recapture the sense of wonder of E.T. through the modern lens of UFO mythology. While Avatar continues James Cameron’s record-breaking run, the upcoming Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling, promises to blend the high stakes of sci-fi with the humour and heart fans have come to expect from author Andy Weir.
With visionaries such as Spielberg, Christopher Nolan, and Denis Villeneuve behind the camera and stars ranging from Zendaya to Matt Damon in front of it, expectations are understandably high.
Here is Travel Tomorrow’s selection of the 10 most anticipated films of 2026.
1. Disclosure Day Spielberg UFO Film
For his science-fiction film, expected to be released on 12 June 2026, Spielberg has teamed up once again with David Koepp, with whom he worked on Jurassic Park. The project is being kept under tight wraps. What is known is that the film explores humanity’s reaction to the confirmation that aliens exist and features an A-list cast including Josh O’Connor, Emily Blunt, Colin Firth, and Wyatt Russell.
2. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
The latest sequel in the franchise is already drawing attention. Directed by Nia DaCosta (Candyman), whose work has already received critical acclaim, the film once again explores the post-apocalyptic universe. Ralph Fiennes’ performance has also been highlighted in early reviews as a highlight of this new chapter.
3. The Odyssey
Christopher Nolan’s epic three-hour film, set for release on 17 July, revisits the famous ancient Greek poem with a strong emphasis on premium formats such as IMAX. Even if you are not particularly drawn to Greek mythology or poetry, the performances of Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, and Lupita Nyong’o may well convert you.
4. Dune: Messiah
The latest instalment in Denis Villeneuve’s blockbuster saga, starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, sees the conclusion of Paul Atreides’ transformation and the political fate of Arrakis. Expect giant sandworms and much more, with a release date set for 25 December – a fitting moment.
5. The Hunger Games Sunrise on the Reaping
Francis Lawrence’s latest film situates itself between The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and the first Hunger Games movie, centring on a younger version of fan favourite Haymitch. Set 24 years before Katniss volunteers as tribute, the story follows Haymitch Abernathy as the victor of the 50th Hunger Games, with Ralph Fiennes, McKenna Grace and Jesse Plemons in key roles.
6. The Devil Wears Prada 2
The cast of the first film returns for this sequel to the 2006 comedy, once again directed by David Frankel. Released on 1 May, it promises more power games between Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, fashion drama, and reflections on ageing in an industry facing a new generation in the cut-throat world of couture.
7. Spider Man Brand New Day
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, Tom Holland stars as Peter Parker, navigating a life of anonymity and redefining heroism at street level while confronting old and new enemies. The film is set to arrive in cinemas on 31 July.
8. Avatar Fire and Ash
James Cameron’s third Avatar film, already in cinemas, quite literally sweeps audiences off their seats with its latest chapter, available in IMAX and on large screens. Starring Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña, the film promises battles, heavenly visions of a lost paradise, animated characters interacting with real actors, and, of course, plenty of fire.
9. The Bride
Based on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, the film is set for release on 6 March. Jessie Buckley plays a murdered woman resurrected in 1930s Chicago to become a romantic partner for the creature often incorrectly dubbed Frankenstein, here portrayed by Christian Bale in this bold, modern reimagining blending gothic horror and feminist sensibilities.
10. Project Hail Mary
The film will be released on 20 March, starring Ryan Gosling. Based on Andy Weir’s bestselling novel of the same name, it follows a lone astronaut who wakes up with no memory and discovers that Earth’s last hope lies far beyond our solar system.
This thrilling mix of science, heart, and unexpected companionship is directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.
