The countdown to the new year has begun! While we may be tempted to rush into thoughts of epic franchises like Star Wars or the latest Avengers saga, let’s take a breather. The upcoming months of early 2026 hold some fascinating films that are sure to keep our cinematic appetite satisfied. As blockbuster season approaches, these next three months promise a lineup of intriguing flicks to keep you engaged.
Curious about what to look forward to? Here are our top 10 picks for the most anticipated genre films hitting theaters from January through March.
10. Night Patrol (January 16)
Starring Justin Long, Jermaine Fowler, and CM Punk, this film dives into the chaotic world of Los Angeles police caught up in a gang conflict, with a supernatural twist. Get ready for a wild ride filled with unpredictable moments!
9. Mercy (January 23)
Imagine being framed for your spouse’s murder. That’s the plight of Chris Pratt’s character as he races against time, utilizing an AI system he created to clear his name. The trailers have piqued our interest, and we’re hoping for an adrenaline-fueled journey.
8. Hoppers (March 6)
Every Pixar film is an event, and this one is no different. In this unique tale, a woman accidentally transfers her consciousness into an animal, inadvertently motivating them to attempt a takeover of the human race. Get ready for laughs and heartwarming moments!
7. Send Help (January 30)
Sam Raimi, legendary for his contributions to thrillers, returns to his roots with this gripping story of two coworkers stranded on a deserted island. With Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien leading the cast, we’re excited to see a touch of that Raimi brilliance back in action.
6. Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die (February 13)
Starring Sam Rockwell, this zany time-travel saga follows a man tasked with revisiting the past to save our future. Its bizarre premise is already creating buzz, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds.
5. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come (March 27)
Fans of the original Ready or Not will be thrilled about this sequel. Picking up shortly after the first film’s events, this installment promises to maintain its blend of dark humor and suspense with a fresh cast to spice things up.
4. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (January 16)
Following the success of last year’s sequel, Nia DaCosta brings us this exciting new chapter in the 28 Years franchise. Early buzz is strong, and it seems Sony is confident enough to greenlight a sequel already!
3. The Bride! (March 6)
This year brings another intriguing retelling of the classic Frankenstein tale, with Maggie Gyllenhaal at the helm. From a fresh female perspective, this punk-rock rendition promises fresh twists. Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale star in what could be a memorable adaptation!
2. Scream 7 (February 27)
Although Scream 7 won’t pick up directly where the last two films left off, the return of Neve Campbell in an expanded role is a cause for excitement. Directed by franchise co-creator Kevin Williamson, we expect this instalment to bring its own surprises while staying true to its roots.
1. Project Hail Mary (March 20)
This film marks the return of directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller in over a decade, which is a big deal! Based on Andy Weir’s novel, known for The Martian, Ryan Gosling plays a man on a mission to save mankind with the help of an alien. If the film captures even half the essence of the book, we’re in for a cinematic gem.
What movies are releasing in early 2026?
The early months of 2026 feature a mix of thrillers, comedies, and sci-fi adventures, with highlights including Night Patrol, Mercy, and Ready or Not 2.
When can I watch Project Hail Mary?
Project Hail Mary is set to debut on March 20, 2026, so mark your calendars for this highly anticipated film!
Is there a new Pixar movie coming out?
Yes! Hoppers is Pixar’s first release in 2026, coming on March 6, and promises a delightful and hilarious adventure.
What can we expect from Scream 7?
Scream 7 is expected to bring back familiar faces and introduce new ones, all while delivering the franchise’s signature blend of horror and humor.
Who stars in Send Help?
Send Help features Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien as the main leads, with Sam Raimi’s direction promising a unique thriller experience.
For more exciting updates on upcoming films and franchise releases from Marvel, Star Wars, and beyond, stay glued to the latest news on our page!