As 2025 closes, attention turns to 2026 and its mix of remakes, reboots, and adaptations across genres from horror to action to Disney properties. The lineup features reimaginings alongside fresh entries aimed at a broad audience, including several high-profile fantasy and adventure projects. The year is expected to offer a steady stream of familiar content, with new takes on established stories and notable star power driving attention.
Some characters will revisit familiar journeys, while others will debut in brand-new cinematic incarnations. Among the notable projects is a live-action adaptation of a classic animated franchise that will mark a long-awaited return to the screen for fans. Other titles explore grand adventures, including prominent comic book and science fiction properties, and several video game narratives will be adapted for live action. Viewers may want to prepare by marking their calendars for the releases that align with their interests, as the slate could feel dense at times.
Not every film will meet expectations, but the slate offers a range of potential attractions. One title, however, stands out as a departure from typical fare and may not appeal to all audiences.
Wuthering Heights – February 13
Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of Emily Brontë’s novel has drawn early attention for its cast and setting. The production emphasizes the sweeping moorlands and a gothic mood, with a contemporary pop soundtrack accompanying the visual style. The film also features rising actors in supporting roles and is highly anticipated by audiences drawn to classic literature brought to the screen.
Reminders of Him – March 13
Universal Pictures brings Colleen Hoover’s work to the screen, following prior adaptions of Hoover novels. The story follows a woman released from prison who aims to reconnect with a daughter she has not known, navigating resistance from the child’s guardians. The cast includes Maika Monroe and Rudy Pankow in leading roles, with established actors portraying the guardians. The project is positioned as a serious, emotionally driven drama.
Project Hail Mary – March 20
Based on Andy Weir’s science fiction novel, the film follows a middle school science teacher who awakens on a spaceship with amnesia and faces a damaged sun and a potential alien presence. The adaptation stars Ryan Gosling, continuing his collaboration with director Damien Chazelle after First Man.
4 Kids Walk Into a Bank – April 17
Liam Neeson returns to a lighter role in a comic setup based on a 2017 graphic novel. The narrative centers on a former criminal who plans one last job, only to be challenged by his granddaughter and her friends. Co-star Jack Dylan Grazer adds to the youth-led dynamic of the ensemble.
Masters of the Universe – June 5
The live-action revival of the He-Man saga marks a major moment for the genre. The project brings together a prominent cast, including actors known for recent high-profile franchises, and features a collaboration with notable producers. Expectations center on whether the film can balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling.
Supergirl – June 26
The new DC project centers on Supergirl, with Milly Alcock in the title role. Early reactions to teasers have been mixed, and expectations hinge on how the film develops the character within the broader DC Universe. The production is watched closely for indications of the direction of future DC projects.
Moana – July 10
Disney continues its live-action program with a new take on the studio’s successful musical epic. Returning performer Dwayne Johnson will reprise a key role, while a new actress steps into the lead role. The film is anticipated to perform strongly at the box office due to brand strength and established musical moments.
The Odyssey – July 17
Academy Award winner Christopher Nolan helms a large-scale adaptation featuring a star-studded cast, including Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside several leading performers. The project has drawn attention for its extensive production elements and potential to redefine the epic saga on screen.
Coyote vs. Acme – August 28
A new take on the Looney Tunes universe centers on Wile E. Coyote pursuing legal action against the Acme Corporation. The project is described as a hybrid of courtroom drama and animation, with a supporting cast that includes recognizable faces from contemporary television and film.
Cliffhanger – August 28
Lily James headlines a reboot of the mountain-rescue thriller, set in a fresh locale. The remake follows a rescue expert facing perilous circumstances while contending with threats to her family. The production emphasizes practical stunts and high-altitude sequences.
Clayface – September 11
The Batman mythos receives a body horror storyline centered on a performer transformed into a shape-shifting adversary. The project is being developed with input from well-known genre storytellers and is expected to explore new dark thematic terrain within the superhero framework.
Sense and Sensibility – September 11
A new adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel focuses on the Dashwood sisters in a Georgian England setting. The film aims to deliver a contemporary sensibility while preserving period detail and character-driven drama.
Resident Evil – September 18
A reboot of the video game adaptation places new characters in a familiar setting with a modernized narrative, retaining the franchise’s atmospheric horror elements. The project is led by a director known for genre work and features actors with experience in television drama.
Verity – October 2
The Colleen Hoover adaptation starring Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson is positioned as a thriller about a writer hired to ghostwrite for a best-selling author. Following recent Hoover adaptations, the film continues a trend of literary properties transitioning to the screen with high-profile casts.
The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender – October 9
A new animated film adapts elements from the popular franchise, following a young group of characters as they grow into adulthood. The project is positioned as a major animation event for fans of the original series and broader audiences alike, with production details aimed at expanding the universe onscreen.
Street Fighter – October 16
The long-running game adaptation arrives with a large ensemble cast and a defined period setting. The film aims to offer action and martial arts sequences, with expectations shaped by the franchise’s enduring popularity and prior cinematic entries.
Whalefall – October 16
The adaptation of a sensation-focused horror novel centers on a diver swallowed by a sperm whale and the struggle to escape. The production uses claustrophobic tension and survival stakes to shape its narrative and aims to deliver a memorable thriller experience.
The Cat in the Hat – November 6
A new animated adaptation of a classic children’s book targets a family audience with humor and familiar characters. The project seeks to present a fresh, child-friendly interpretation of the original material while leveraging modern animation technology.
Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol – November 13
A fresh take on Charles Dickens’ story features a high-profile cast including Johnny Depp and Daisy Ridley. The production is positioned as a major holiday release with a cast that blends established stars and newer talent.
Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew – November 26
Greta Gerwig leads the continuation of the Chronicles of Narnia in a film that expands the universe while introducing new interpretations of classic characters. The film is among the year’s most anticipated releases for fantasy fans and family audiences alike, but may also be one of the most controversial.
At this rate, Hollywood isn’t recycling stories—it’s running a cinematic thrift shop. Every “new” movie comes pre-worn, patched up, and priced like it’s couture. If 2026 keeps this pace, the only original thing left in theaters might be the popcorn salt ratio. Until then, enjoy your reheated classics served with extra CGI.
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English (US) · 