If 2026 has one thing going for it, it’s the movies. From our beloved and long-awaited book adaptations to nostalgic returns, this year’s slate is all we could hope for and is shaping up to be a stacked year, cinematically. The romance, the angst, the heartbreak, and the stories that promise to emotionally devastate us in the best way possible—what more could we ask for?
Here are the films we know we’ll be watching in 2026!
People We Meet on Vacation
Release Date: January 9th
Synopsis: Free-spirited Poppy and routine-loving Alex have been unlikely best friends for a decade, living in different cities but spending every summer vacation together. The careful balance of their friendship is put to the test when they begin to question what has been obvious to everyone else — could they actually be the perfect romantic match?
Why We’re Excited: Emily Henry’s novels have consistently resonated with romance readers over the years, and People We Meet on Vacation has long been considered one of the most anticipated screen adaptations of her work. The friends-to-lovers dynamic, combined with the decade-spanning relationship and travel-centered structure, aligns with the current wave of grounded romance projects finding success on streaming platforms.
Early trailer reactions highlight the chemistry between Emily Bader and Tom Blyth, as well as the relationship-centered storytelling fans of Henry’s work expect, positioning this first adaptation as a strong entry into the growing book-to-screen romance landscape. This will be the kind of romance that quietly sneaks up on us and breaks our hearts when we think everything is going to work out.
Sunrise on the Reaping
Release Date: November 20th
Synopsis: Set decades before the story of Katniss Everdeen, this film centers on the 50th Hunger Games, better known as the second Quarter Quell. The story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy as he’s forced into the Games, where there are twice as many tributes reaped. As the Panem we know all too well tightens its grip on the story we thought we knew, this film explores survival, loss, and the origins of the trauma that shapes who Haymitch becomes long after the Games end—all the way back to the beginning.
Why We’re Excited: Returning to Panem for the story of the second Quarter Quell significantly expands The Hunger Games canon by exploring pivotal moments that shaped the original story. Centering the narrative on Haymitch Abernathy allows the franchise to revisit familiar themes through a new perspective—one audiences already know well—while deepening the emotional and political stakes of the series and introducing themes that haven’t yet been fully explored.
With returning characters, key casting choices, and familiar creative elements, fan anticipation has continued to grow. The darker tone—emphasized early on during the promotional period—has positioned the film as one of the most consequential entries in the franchise since the release of Mockingjay.
Reminders of Him
Release Date: March 13th
Synopsis: Based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover, Reminders of Him follows Kenna Rowan, a young woman who, after serving time in prison, returns to her hometown hoping to reconnect with her daughter. Time is a prison within itself as she struggles to rebuild the life she once had and faces judgment from the community she once knew, as well as from those closest to her daughter. This story explores grief, guilt, and the process of forgiveness—and just how difficult that may be. Second chances are real, and at its core, the film asks whether love can survive after devastating loss.
Why We’re Excited: Despite the mixed reactions to Colleen Hoover’s recent adaptations, Reminders of Him stands out for its emotionally heavy subject matter and character-driven focus. The story’s exploration of relatable emotions—such as grief, forgiveness, and second chances—taps into themes that have consistently drawn audiences in, particularly within recent dramatic adaptations.
Early interest in the film suggests it may resonate with viewers drawn to messy, intimate, and emotionally charged storytelling rather than more traditional romantic structures. This is a film positioned to leave both longtime readers and new audiences impacted by the immediacy of its emotional weight.
The Drama
Release Date: April 3rd
Synopsis: An upcoming A24 film, The Drama follows a seemingly happy, newly engaged couple whose relationship is thrown into crisis just before their wedding. As unexpected revelations come to light, everything they thought they knew about each other begins to unravel. The film explores love and commitment while navigating the emotional fallout of those unexpected turns, offering a tense look at what happens when certainty in a relationship suddenly disappears.
Why We’re Excited: With Zendaya and Robert Pattinson leading and Kristoffer Borgli directing, The Drama brings together mainstream star power and A24’s reputation for unconventional storytelling. Early promotional material, including the awkward wedding photo shoot teaser, has fueled conversation online around the film’s unsettling tone and its subversion of traditional romantic expectations.
The film leans darker and emotionally charged, centering on two people who, after all the love and bliss, appear deeply unhappy. Positioned as a tense, intimate relationship drama, The Drama has already drawn attention as one of the most intriguing upcoming releases.
Toy Story 5
Release Date: June 19th
Synopsis: Toy Story 5 follows the beloved story and toys we know all too well. As the world continues to change, the way they navigate it changes too. The film is expected to explore what it means for toys in new generations, finding purpose in new eras, and how those shifts shape childhood experiences. While details remain under wraps, Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the toys face yet another turning point, revisiting themes of growing up and letting go.
Why We’re Excited: As one of Pixar’s most enduring franchises, Toy Story continues to stand out by exploring themes that resonate across generations. The fifth installment focuses on purpose, change, and evolving childhood experiences, reflecting the studio’s ongoing interest in examining growing up from different angles.
With nostalgia remaining a powerful draw for the franchise, its track record for thematic storytelling has kept anticipation high for how this chapter will build on its legacy—or potentially bring it to a meaningful close.
Supergirl
Release Date: June 26th
Synopsis: Supergirl follows Kara Zor-El as she steps out of the shadow of Superman. Set in DC’s new cinematic era, the film highlights Kara’s search for identity and what it truly means for her to be a superhero. Her journey is deeply rooted in her past and her place in a world that doesn’t fully understand her.
Why We’re Excited: With DC entering a new cinematic era, Supergirl represents an opportunity to reintroduce Kara Zor-El in a more fully realized and grounded way. The film already emphasizes themes of identity, vulnerability, and independence from the shadow of Superman.
The project aligns with growing audience interest in character-driven superhero stories and the enduring appeal of Supergirl as a figure of strength and resilience. Early discussion across social media has centered on the film’s potential for a more nuanced portrayal of Kara—one that balances her known power with internal depth. If the film leans into her heart as much as her strength, it could become one of DC’s most emotional and grounded superhero stories yet.
Scream 7
Release Date: February 27th
Synopsis:The classic slasher film we know all too well centers on Sidney Prescott as she builds a new life—everything’s fine, right? When a new Ghostface emerges in her quiet town, targeting not only her but her daughter, Tatum, Sidney’s darkest fears resurface. Fueled by determination, she’s forced to confront the horrors of her past in order to protect her family. Everything is on the line this time.
Why We’re Excited: While Scream 7 has generated debate within the fandom for the firing of Melissa Barrera, the confirmed return of Neve Campbell has renewed interest in the franchise’s direction. Sidney Prescott’s involvement signals a return to the series’ roots, with a more personal narrative focus this time around.
The combination of legacy elements from the classic slasher and heightened stakes has fueled online conversation about how the film may redefine—or conclude—the story, particularly Sidney’s arc. Questions surrounding the film’s tone and production have only added to anticipation, as audiences remain eager to see whether it lives up to expectations.
You, Me, and Tuscany
Release Date: April 10th
Synopsis: This upcoming romantic comedy follows a young chef, Anna, whose dreams and life suddenly become tangled when she loses her housing. Matteo, the owner of an empty Tuscan villa, becomes the inspiration she needs to move to Italy and stay with him. A classic misunderstanding leads to Anna no longer being just someone living in his villa, but pretending to be his fiancée. Could this begin to blossom into something more—a romance?
Why We’re Excited: Romantic comedies centered on travel and self-discovery continue to find strong audience appeal, and You, Me, and Tuscany fits squarely within that trend. Stories set abroad have long resonated with viewers, particularly when paired with emotional growth and unexpected romance.
The film’s Tuscan setting, combined with a classic mistaken-identity romance and Regé-Jean Page’s continued popularity following Bridgerton, positions it as a warm, escapist entry in the 2026 romance slate. Early interest suggests the film may resonate with viewers drawn to comfort-driven storytelling and character-focused romance.
Wuthering Heights
Release Date: February 13th
Synopsis: This new adaptation of Emily Bronte’s classic is directed and written by Emerald Fennell. The story is far from the one we know and centers on the intense relationship between Catherine and Heathcliff, two childhood friends whose love is disastrous and destructive. Marked by obsession and jealousy, the film explores just how tragic their love becomes, shaped by deep social divisions that are impossible to escape.
Why We’re Excited: Emerald Fennell’s adaptation brings renewed attention to Emily Brontë’s novel by leaning into its darker, more obsessive tone and elements.
With contemporary audiences gravitating toward intense and emotionally complex narratives, the story’s themes of passion, jealousy, and social division feel especially timely. Jacob Elordi’s continued rise in the media has also drawn interest, alongside the creative team’s approach to reinterpreting the classic. Together, these choices have generated curiosity around how this version will resonate with modern audiences and what it may add to the legacy of the story.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Release Date: July 31st
Synopsis: Life after the world has forgotten Peter Parker is Spider-Man is treacherous. With his identity erased from public memory—especially from those closest to him—he’s forced to rebuild his life while still doing what he does best: protecting the city on his own. What does it mean to be a hero when no one knows or remembers who you are?
Why We’re Excited: Following the events that erased Peter Parker’s identity from public memory, Brand New Day sets the stage for a more isolated and introspective chapter in the Spider-Man franchise.
The film’s premise offers the opportunity to explore heroism and responsibility without the support system Peter once relied on so heavily. This narrative shift has sustained long-standing interest among fans, as it opens the door to a more grounded character-focused Spider-Man story reminiscent of the franchise’s earlier roots. It has also fueled speculation around casting choices, potential returning characters, and how familiar figures may reappear in entirely new ways.
The Last Sunrise
Release Date: Summer 2026
Synopsis: This upcoming independent drama follows a coming-of-age romance between Oriah and Julian. While many details of the film remain under wraps, the story leans into a classic trope: an overprotective mother, a sheltered child, and a charming, carefree boy—set against the backdrop of Spain. Through quiet moments of rebellion and transformation, the film dives deep into the evolving relationship between Oriah and Julian.
Why We’re Excited: As a quieter, independent project, The Last Sunrise stands apart from larger franchise releases through its emphasis on intimacy and personal transformation.
Adapted from Anna Todd’s work, which continues to draw strong interest from fans, the film’s focus on transformation, rebellion, and coming-of-age themes aligns with audience interest seen throughout her earlier projects. Its restrained storytelling approach positions it as a potential sleeper hit in a year filled with highly anticipated adaptations. Seven years later, Anna Todd’s return to the screen offers a familiar emotional tone for longtime fans while presenting a story that has quietly stood out within the genre.
Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
Release Date: November 26th
Synopsis Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew marks a new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s beloved fantasy world. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the film introduces a reimagined vision of Narnia, bringing the stories first told on the page to life. Set at the very beginning of Narnia’s creation, the film explores a world where wonder and danger collide, ancient forces awaken, and the origins of this timeless fantasy are finally revealed.
Why We’re Excited: Greta Gerwig’s involvement has brought renewed attention to the Narnia franchise, particularly with a story centered on the creation of the world itself. Exploring the origins of Narnia allows the film to reintroduce the fantasy universe with fresh stakes and deeper thematic meaning, while also offering longtime fans a return to what Narnia was and continues to represent.
Gerwig’s reputation for blending emotional resonance with large-scale storytelling has positioned this adaptation as one of the most closely watched fantasy projects currently in development. The world of Narnia has always been deeply human at its core, and experiencing it through a new lens makes this project both intriguing and nostalgic.
Heartstopper Forever
Release Date: TBA
Synopsis: Heartstopper Forever is a feature-length film that serves as the conclusion to the beloved series Heartstopper, based on the final volume of Alice Oseman’s graphic novels. The movie follows Nick and Charlie as they navigate the uncertainty that comes with the next chapter of their lives. As university and personal growth begin to shape their paths, their relationship faces new challenges while they learn how to grow together—and apart.
Why We’re Excited: As the conclusion to Netflix’s Heartstopper, the feature film carries significant emotional weight for longtime fans and audiences. Centered on transition, growth, and long-term commitment, the story continues to reflect the themes that first drew viewers in and have defined the series from the very beginning.
The decision to conclude the narrative with a film has generated both anticipation and bittersweet excitement among fans eager to see Nick and Charlie’s journeys resolved with care and intention. With Alice Oseman returning to write the script, the film promises to honor the characters with the same love and thoughtfulness that has guided their story since its start.
