The New Sci-Fi Hit Is Still the Most Popular Movie of the Week; Here Are the Other Movies Atop IMDb’s List

The cinematic calendar over the next few years is packed with an exciting array of high-profile projects, blending massive blockbuster adaptations with gripping original stories. From high-stakes psychological thrillers and massive video game adaptations to ambitious biographical dramas, the film industry is preparing to deliver a diverse slate of theatrical experiences. Major studios and acclaimed directors are teaming up with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars to bring these expansive narratives to life. Here is a look at the most anticipated upcoming films that are generating massive excitement among audiences worldwide.

‘Send Help’ (2026)

Sam Raimi returns to his horror roots with this upcoming feature in development for 20th Century Studios. The project is described as an island-set horror thriller that blends intense isolation with gripping psychological terror. Originally based on a script by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift, the narrative isolates its characters in an unforgiving environment where they must survive both natural and supernatural threats. This film marks a highly anticipated cinematic return to the genre that launched Raimi’s celebrated directorial career.

‘Ready or Not: Here I Come’ (2026)

The surviving bride from the chaotic Le Domas family game night is set to return in this highly anticipated horror-comedy sequel. Samara Weaving reprises her celebrated role as Grace, who must once again navigate a blood-soaked battle for survival. The directing collective Radio Silence returns to helm the project, ensuring the same blend of gruesome kills and sharp satire that made ‘Ready or Not’ a massive hit. The upcoming installment promises to expand upon the deadly traditions and eccentric mythology introduced in the first film.

‘The Housemaid’ (2025)

Based on Freida McFadden’s bestselling psychological thriller, this adaptation brings a gripping tale of domestic deception to the screen. Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney lead the cast, portraying women caught in a dangerous web of secrets within an affluent household. Paul Feig takes the director’s chair, steering away from his comedic roots to deliver a tense and suspenseful narrative filled with dark twists. The story unravels the hidden sinister dynamics of a seemingly perfect family and the desperate woman they hire to clean their home.

‘Outcome’ (2026)

Jonah Hill directs and stars alongside Keanu Reeves in this dark Hollywood comedy produced for Apple Studios. The narrative follows a damaged cinematic star who must confront his inner demons and make amends after being extorted with a mysterious video clip from his past. Reeves takes center stage as the struggling actor, navigating the treacherous and superficial landscape of the entertainment industry. The film promises a sharp, cynical look at celebrity culture while offering a deeply personal journey of redemption and self-discovery.

‘Michael’ (2026)

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, this extensive biographical drama chronicles the complicated and globally influential life of the King of Pop. Jaafar Jackson steps into the monumental role of his late uncle, delivering a performance that captures both the musical genius and the deeply publicized controversies of the iconic singer. Produced by Graham King, the film promises an unapologetic look at the artist’s personal struggles, his historic career milestones, and his lasting impact on global culture. The production has secured the rights to his extensive musical catalog, ensuring authentic and grand-scale performance recreations.

‘Crime 101’ (2026)

Based on Don Winslow’s acclaimed novella, this gritty crime thriller follows high-stakes jewel heists occurring along the Pacific Coast. A brilliant lone-wolf thief executes meticulous robberies, outsmarting local law enforcement while drawing the intense scrutiny of a dedicated detective. The star-studded cast features Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan in a tense game of cat and mouse. Director Bart Layton brings his signature visceral style to the project, grounding the intricate heist mechanics in gritty, suspenseful realism.

‘Balls Up’ (2026)

Director Peter Farrelly brings his signature comedic touch to an action-comedy centered on two marketing executives who find themselves in way over their heads. Mark Wahlberg and Paul Walter Hauser star as the unfortunate duo whose massive corporate blunder leads them into a dangerous and chaotic situation. Fired and desperate, they inadvertently cross paths with dangerous criminals, forcing them to survive a series of increasingly absurd and life-threatening encounters. The film leans heavily into the buddy-comedy dynamic, utilizing the stark contrast between Wahlberg’s intense persona and Hauser’s eccentric comedic timing.

‘The Drama’ (2026)

A24 continues its streak of boundary-pushing cinema with this romantic narrative directed by Kristoffer Borgli. Robert Pattinson and Zendaya headline the film, playing a couple whose relationship is tested by surreal and unexpected developments just days before their wedding. The project explores themes of identity, trust, and the subconscious fears that arise when committing to another person for a lifetime. Borgli brings his unique, satirical lens to the romance genre, crafting a story that balances emotional vulnerability with unsettling, reality-bending elements.

‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ (2026)

Nintendo and Illumination are teaming up once again to expand the vibrant cinematic universe based on their flagship video game franchise. Following the massive box-office success of ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’, this new installment promises to take the beloved plumber and his friends into exciting, uncharted territories. The returning voice cast brings life back to the Mushroom Kingdom, embarking on a cosmic adventure that introduces new gravity-defying mechanics and beloved interstellar characters. Fans can expect stunning animation that honors the rich legacy of the iconic gaming property.

‘Street Fighter’ (2026)

Legendary Entertainment is bringing Capcom’s legendary fighting game back to theaters with a fresh, modern adaptation. The project aims to faithfully capture the intense martial arts action and diverse roster of global combatants that made the arcade classic a worldwide phenomenon. With Kitao Sakurai attached to direct, the film is expected to deliver visceral hand-to-hand combat sequences alongside a deep dive into the lore of the iconic world warriors. The production seeks to finally provide an authentic cinematic experience that honors the complex legacy of the long-running franchise.

‘Project Hail Mary’ (2026)

Ryan Gosling stars as an isolated astronaut who awakens from a coma aboard a spacecraft with no memory of his identity or his mission. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this adaptation of Andy Weir’s celebrated science fiction novel is a high-stakes tale of scientific problem-solving and survival. The protagonist soon realizes he is the sole survivor of a critical mission designed to save Earth from an impending solar catastrophe. Relying on scientific ingenuity and an unexpected interstellar alliance, the film delivers a thrilling and emotionally resonant journey through deep space.

Please let us know which of these upcoming major releases you are most excited to watch by sharing your thoughts in the comments.