Germain Lussier is a senior reporter covering entertainment for the io9 section of Gizmodo. He lives in Los Angeles, specializes in film coverage, and is also our lead film critic. You can follow his coverage here and email story ideas and tips to [email protected].
Exciting New Franchises on the Horizon
You know that moment when you think Hollywood is just going through the motions with endless sequels and remakes? Well, buckle up for 2026! This year promises not just the usual line-up of blockbuster franchises like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but also a wave of fresh, original stories that could become the next big hits. Just imagine J.J. Abrams’ yet-to-be-titled fantasy featuring Glen Powell or Brad Bird’s animated sci-fi detective story, Ray Gunn. How refreshing to see industry legends like Steven Spielberg and M. Night Shyamalan stepping outside their comfort zones with new concepts!
It’s a gamble, of course. Some films may not click with audiences, but the fact that these visionaries are taking risks speaks volumes. This could very well be the year of bold storytelling.
Franchises Making a Comeback
The landscape of 2026 is teeming with familiar faces, but can they reclaim the excitement they once generated? The Mandalorian & Grogu in the Star Wars universe and Avengers: Doomsday from Marvel are among the heavyweights returning this year, but they’ve had their ups and downs in recent releases.
On the bright side, director Greta Gerwig is reviving Narnia, which could enthrall a new generation. Additionally, Travis Knight’s new Masters of the Universe movie looks promising, alongside Zach Cregger’s fresh take on Resident Evil. 2026 might just be the make-or-break moment for these beloved franchises.
Little Gems to Keep an Eye On
Will a small horror film become a big hit?
Last year, I got it right with genre films surprising everyone. This time, I’m betting on Obsession, a heart-stopping horror flick by newcomer Curry Barker set to release on May 15. If you love a thrill, this could easily slide into your list of the year’s best films. I’ve seen it, and it left me on edge!
Must-Follow Filmmakers
As the industry becomes more dynamic, a few key figures are shaping the conversation:
- James Gunn – With upcoming films like Supergirl and Clayface, Gunn remains an essential voice. His insights on social media keep everyone captivated.
- Rian Johnson – After his 2025 success with Wake Up Dead Man, fans eagerly await news about his next project, rumored to have a sci-fi twist.
- Zendaya – Starring in major releases like Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Dune: Part Three, her schedule is jam-packed with blockbuster potential.
- Pedro Pascal – He’s set to shine in both The Mandalorian & Grogu and Avengers: Doomsday. This year is looking bright for him!
Companies to Watch in 2026
As the film industry evolves, several companies are positioning themselves for dominance:
- Netflix – From groundbreaking original content to its recent acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix is set for an impressive year.
- Paramount – This company’s direction under new ownership is intriguing, especially with all the movies in the pipeline.
- AMC Theaters – As the largest theater chain in the U.S., AMC’s decisions often set the tone for the entire theater experience.
Will 2026 Revive Reissue Films?
While 2026 is set for box office success, there’s also the potential resurgence of reissue screenings. Looking back at 2025, anniversary re-releases like Jaws and Back to the Future saw incredible success. With Marvel planning to reintroduce Avengers: Endgame and the Star Wars franchise gearing up for a 50th-anniversary celebration, this might just be the year we see classic films back in theaters more often.
Curious about what’s next in the world of Marvel, Star Wars, and more? Stay connected with all things io9 for the latest updates!