Waiting for a great sequel can feel like an eternity. You finish a movie that changes everything, and then you’re stuck counting the days until the next chapter finally arrives. We’ve all been there, restless and ready to see what happens to our favorite characters.
But here is the good news. 2026 is shaping up to be a massive year for franchise fans. From the return of iconic horror villains to the next big Marvel adventures, the calendar is absolutely packed.
For example, Greenland 2: Migration kicks things off on January 9, 2026. And that is just the beginning.
A guide to the 7 (and more!) most anticipated sequels coming in 2026, breaking down exactly why each one deserves attention, which cast members are returning, and the key release dates to mark on the calendar.
So, grab your popcorn and let’s dive into the list. Think you’re going to love what’s coming to theaters.
Greenland 2: Migration
Greenland 2: Migration hits theaters on January 9, 2026. Gerard Butler returns to lead the cast in this intense survival thriller. The story picks up right where the first film left off, following the Garrity family as they leave the safety of the Greenland bunker.
This time, the challenge is different. Instead of dodging comets, they must traverse a frozen, decimated Europe to find a new home. Director Ric Roman Waugh is back at the helm, which means you can expect the same grounded, heart-pounding tension that made the first movie a surprise hit.
Why This Sequel Matters
The original Greenland was a massive success on streaming platforms because it focused on a realistic family dynamic rather than just explosions. For the sequel, the stakes are even personal. The production budget has increased, promising a bigger visual spectacle to match the emotional drama.
Key Details at a Glance:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Release Date | January 9, 2026 |
| Director | Ric Roman Waugh |
| Starring | Gerard Butler, Morena Baccarin |
| Genre | Survival Thriller / Disaster |
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple lands in theaters on January 16, 2026. This is the second film in the new trilogy directed by Nia DaCosta, taking the baton from Danny Boyle. Fans of the zombie genre are watching this closely because it promises to expand the lore of the Rage Virus in terrifying ways.
The plot centers on a new threat involving a cult leader played by Jack O’Connell. While the first film in this new trilogy re-introduced us to the world, The Bone Temple is expected to push the horror elements even further. Rumors suggest that Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim, will have a pivotal role that connects the past to this dark new future.
Insider Note: This movie was filmed back-to-back with the previous installment, 28 Years Later. This production style usually means the story will flow seamlessly, so you might want to re-watch the 2025 release right before heading to the theater.
Return to Silent Hill
Grit your teeth, horror fans. Return to Silent Hill is set for release on January 23, 2026. This film is a big deal because it brings back original director Christophe Gans, the visionary behind the 2006 film that many consider one of the best video game adaptations ever made.
The story is based on the fan-favorite video game Silent Hill 2. It follows James Sunderland, played by Jeremy Irvine, who returns to the foggy town after receiving a letter from his wife—who is supposed to be dead. This setup guarantees a psychological trip full of guilt, monsters, and that iconic Pyramid Head.
Fans expect strong box office numbers because the franchise has a massive, dedicated following. The producers have promised a return to practical effects and psychological horror, moving away from the action-heavy style of the previous sequel.
The Strangers: Chapter 3
The Strangers: Chapter 3 is set to hit theaters on February 6, 2026. This brings the ambitious trilogy from director Renny Harlin to its violent conclusion. Stars Madelaine Petsch and Froy Gutierrez return to face the masked killers one last time.
Horror fans know that third chapters are usually where all the rules are broken. You can expect:
- Higher Stakes: The timeline for this film is expected to pick up immediately after the chaos of Chapter 2.
- New Locations: The chase likely moves beyond the forest, bringing the terror into more public spaces.
- Final Answers: We may finally learn the truth—or lack thereof—behind the killers’ motives.
Box office numbers for the first two chapters proved that audiences still crave suspenseful home invasion thrillers. If you love tense drama where no character is safe, this is your February must-watch.
Scream 7
Ghostface will haunt theaters again as Scream 7 lands on February 27, 2026. This entry is generating huge buzz because franchise legend Neve Campbell is officially back as Sidney Prescott. After sitting out the sixth film, her return signals a “back to basics” approach that longtime fans are cheering for.
Kevin Williamson, the creator of the original characters, is stepping into the director’s chair. This is significant because he understands the DNA of Scream better than anyone. Expect a script that sharply satirizes current horror trends while delivering the classic whodunit mystery we love.
Audiences can count on suspenseful scenes, chilling phone calls, and shocking reveals. Whether you have watched every movie or just love a good scream in a dark cinema, seeing Sidney Prescott fight Ghostface one more time is a cinematic event you won’t want to miss.
Ready or Not 2: Here I Come
Mark your calendars for March 20, 2026. That’s when Ready or Not 2: Here I Come hits theaters. The first film was a sleeper hit that mixed gore with laugh-out-loud comedy, and Samara Weaving is expected to return as the resilient Grace.
Anticipation runs high as moviegoers want to see what chaos comes next. The original directors, Radio Silence, are producing, ensuring the sequel keeps that unique, punchy tone. The story will likely expand on the curse of the Le Domas family or introduce a new wealthy, twisted dynasty for Grace to survive.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Genre-Bending: It perfectly balances horror and dark humor.
- Star Power: Samara Weaving has become a modern horror icon.
- Originality: In a sea of remakes, this is a fresh, original story continuing its own path.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie lands on many fans’ lists of top sequels to watch in 2026. Set for release on April 1, 2026, this animated adventure sends Mario and Luigi into the cosmos. It draws inspiration from the beloved Wii game, introducing fan-favorite character Rosalina and her Lumas.
Expect bright colors, wild worlds, and new characters packed into every scene. Illumination is once again handling the animation, so the visuals will be top-tier.
Kids who loved the previous Mario movie will race straight to theaters for this sequel. Families can plan for plenty of laughs as Bowser Jr. likely joins the fray, adding a new dynamic to the villain roster. With high hopes at the box office, this movie aims to blast past the billion-dollar record of the first film.
Dune: Part Three
Dune: Part Three is stirring up a sandstorm of anticipation for December 18, 2026. Director Denis Villeneuve returns to complete his vision with an adaptation of Dune Messiah. This isn’t just a standard war movie; it is a tragedy about power, religion, and the cost of leadership.
Fans are eager to see Timothée Chalamet return as Paul Atreides, now the Emperor of the known universe. The story jumps forward in time, showing a Paul who is trapped by the very jihad he unleashed.
| Character | Role in Part Three |
|---|---|
| Paul Atreides | The Emperor facing conspiracies from all sides. |
| Chani | Now a critic of Paul’s rule and religious power. |
| Princess Irulan | Paul’s strategic wife, played by Florence Pugh. |
Box office buzz started way back with Dune: Part Two smashing records. This sequel will try to top them all. Everyone wonders if this big-screen spectacle can set another milestone for sci-fi films everywhere.
Avengers: Doomsday
Avengers: Doomsday gears up to be one of the most anticipated sequels coming in 2026. Marvel fans have waited years for this next big chapter, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The film is set for release on December 18, 2026, and marks the return of the Russo Brothers as directors.
The biggest news? Robert Downey Jr. returns to the MCU, not as Iron Man, but as the villainous Doctor Doom. This twist has sparked endless theories and excitement.
Expect massive action scenes, plenty of drama, and surprising twists. This film will likely unite the Fantastic Four, the Thunderbolts, and the remaining Avengers against a threat that dwarfs Thanos. Superhero movies often pull families and friends together for an adventure-filled experience, and this one promises to deliver thrills worthy of its name.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Peter Parker swings into a new chapter with Spider-Man: Brand New Day, releasing on July 31, 2026. Fans are buzzing about what this sequel could mean for the whole franchise now that the world has forgotten who Peter Parker is.
Destin Daniel Cretton is stepping in to direct, bringing a fresh energy to the series. The story is expected to be more grounded, focusing on Peter’s life as a street-level hero in New York City without the support of Stark Tech.
Excitement builds as Marvel ramps up for more box office magic. After the cliffhanger ending of No Way Home, audiences everywhere want to see which old friends might return—perhaps MJ or Ned—and if famous villains like Kingpin will finally cross paths with Spidey. This release stands out among 2026 sequels, promising the kind of emotional thrills only Spider-Man can offer.
Mortal Kombat II
Fans are eager for Mortal Kombat II, which arrives on May 8, 2026. The first movie was a massive hit on streaming, and the sequel promises to fix the biggest complaint from fans: the lack of a tournament. Director Simon McQuoid returns to deliver more blood, fatalities, and martial arts action.
The big addition this time is Karl Urban as Johnny Cage. His charisma is perfect for the Hollywood action star who gets dragged into a mystical war.
What to Watch For:
- New Villains: Shao Kahn is expected to make his terrifying debut.
- Fan Favorites: Kitana and Jade are joining the roster.
- The Tournament: The actual Mortal Kombat competition is finally happening.
This anticipated sequel stands ready to deliver pure entertainment on a silver platter in 2026.
Scary Movie 6
Scary Movie 6 is set to bring laughs and screams on June 12, 2026. This is a massive reunion event because the Wayans Brothers—Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory—are back to write and produce for the first time since the second film.
The franchise returns with its classic style of slapstick humor, ready to parody the last decade of horror hits. Think of movies like M3GAN, Smile, and Hereditary getting the spoof treatment.
People expect big laughs as well as a silly take on new horror trends. It joins the list of most anticipated sequels coming in 2026 for comedy fans who want something light after all the suspenseful dramas. With the Wayans back in control, you can bet the jokes will be fearless and hilarious.
Toy Story 5
Woody, Buzz, and the gang are coming back in Toy Story 5 on June 19, 2026. Pixar brings these beloved characters to life once again for a new generation. Director Andrew Stanton, who has been a key creative force at Pixar for decades, is leading the project.
The plot tackles a very modern problem: Toys vs. Electronics. The gang has to compete for a child’s attention against iPads and tablets, a struggle every parent and kid can relate to today.
Anticipation runs high after Toy Story 4 became a box office hit. Audiences hope for another fun adventure with all their favorite toys. As one of the most anticipated sequels coming in 2026, moviegoers know they are in for great entertainment and maybe even a few happy tears.
Minions & Monsters
Yellow Minions are back on July 1, 2026, in Minions & Monsters (also known as Minions 3). Fans expect laughs, chaos, and some wild adventures as the movie mixes these lovable troublemakers with classic movie monsters.
The last Minions film topped box office charts worldwide, so hopes run high for another hit. This installment serves as another prequel, possibly showing how the Minions interacted with legendary creatures before they met Gru. It is a fresh mix of monsters and mayhem that families will love.
How These Sequels Shape the Future of Cinema
Sequels like Greenland 2: Migration and The Bone Temple bring a mix of thrills and fresh drama to theaters. Each new release builds on past stories but adds twists that keep fans coming back. Studios bet big on these films because moviegoers love familiar faces and worlds.
These sequels push studios to raise the bar with each chapter. They mix smarter plots, bigger visuals, or surprising comebacks in franchises like Toy Story 5 or Mortal Kombat II. Audiences enjoy seeing favorite characters evolve while watching technology get sharper every time a sequel rolls out.
New entries such as Ready or Not 2: Here I Come and Scary Movie 6 promise laughs and chills for loyal crowds. Each title sparks more anticipation for what comes after—and pushes film lovers to imagine even wilder adventures down the road.
Honorable Mentions
Some sequels did not make the main list, but fans still talk about them. These films spark interest and keep movie buzz alive for 2026.
- The Moment is set to launch on January 30, 2026, bringing fresh drama and high anticipation.
- Send Help arrives the same day as The Moment, promising emotional twists that could surprise cinema lovers.
- Wuthering Heights will get its turn on February 13, 2026; this new adaptation from Emerald Fennell stirs curiosity with a well-known classic.
- Shrek 5 is rumored to be aiming for a 2026 release, which would bring the original All-Star back to the swamp.
- The Batman Part II is another massive title to keep an eye on for late 2026, continuing the gritty crime saga.
Final thoughts
Movie fans have a lot to look forward to in 2026. From the survival intensity of Greenland 2 to the superhero spectacle of Avengers: Doomsday, there is something for everyone. These movies show how simple ideas can turn into hits when done right, keeping viewers excited for what’s next.
Watching these series grow proves that strong stories and fun characters keep people coming back year after year. For those eager to learn more or plan their movie nights ahead, checking out official movie sites or fan pages is always helpful.
Let these film releases spark your curiosity. There’s magic in the wait for what comes next at the theater!
