Building on early previews of 2026's cinematic slate, entertainment industry outlets Variety and Deadline released their highly anticipated movies lists on December 29, 2025. The selections emphasize franchise sequels like Marvel and Pixar entries, alongside auteur-driven projects and genre films, blending familiarity with fresh narratives.
Variety and Deadline's December 29 previews highlight a packed 2026 lineup, expanding on previously noted highlights such as Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' (July 17 per Variety, July 26 per Deadline, starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland, and Zendaya), Pixar's 'Toy Story 5' (June 19), 'Avengers: Doomsday' (December 18, with Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, directed by the Russo brothers), '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple' (January 16), and Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights' (February 13).
Newly emphasized franchises include Sony's 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' (July 31, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, starring Tom Holland in a post-'No Way Home' story); 'Scream 7' (February 27, with Neve Campbell returning under Kevin Williamson); 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' (May 22, starring Pedro Pascal, directed by Jon Favreau); and Illumination's 'Minions 3' (July 1).
Auteur highlights feature Steven Spielberg's UFO-themed 'Disclosure Day' (June 12) and Ridley Scott's post-apocalyptic 'The Dog Stars' (August 28, starring Jacob Elordi and Josh Brolin). DC's 'Supergirl' (June 26, directed by Craig Gillespie, starring Milly Alcock) adds to the superhero fare.
These lists underscore 2026's robust mix of nostalgia-driven sequels and innovative storytelling, signaling strong box office potential.
