All the Movies Coming to Theaters This Week, Including a Long-Awaited Video Game Adaptation

Moviegoers have an expansive slate of films arriving on the big screen this week, ranging from high-profile studio tentpoles to award-winning international features, independent dramas, and anticipated anniversary screenings.

Whether audiences are seeking martial arts spectacles, harrowing survival thrillers, or comprehensive real-life documentaries, local cinemas are packed with fresh arrivals across both wide and limited distributions. Notable restorations also bring cinematic milestones back to the theater for special commemorative presentations. Here is every new film opening in movie theaters throughout the week of October 12, 2026.

‘Fresh Meat’ (2026)

Created by the team behind Dead Meat Productions, the horror anthology ‘Fresh Meat’ debuts in limited theaters on October 12, 2026. The film compiles thirteen individual short horror films directed by emerging independent filmmakers from around the world. Connecting the anthology is a wraparound narrative titled “Sate the Screen,” which stars James A. Janisse and Elle Riot Fox alongside Aidan Armstrong and MK Kopp. Set inside the back room of an eerie butcher shop, the framing story follows a young girl captivated by a sinister screen that demands increasingly gruesome offerings to remain pacified. Running at one hour and 56 minutes, the horror project explores a wide spectrum of terror ranging from psychological dread to supernatural shocks.

‘Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer’ (1986)

John McNaughton’s psychological horror film ‘Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer’ returns to limited theaters on October 14, 2026, to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Distributed by Dark Sky Films, this special theatrical re-release presents a brand-new 4K digital restoration of the controversial unrated classic. Loosely inspired by convicted real-life murderer Henry Lee Lucas, the narrative follows an itinerant killer, portrayed by Michael Rooker in his feature film debut, who drifts into Chicago and stays with former prison acquaintance Otis. Their partnership escalates into severe violence as Henry introduces Otis to indiscriminate killing sprees while forming an uneasy relationship with Otis’s sister Becky. The acclaimed independent production co-stars Tom Towles, Tracy Arnold, and Mary Demas across a concise runtime of one hour and 23 minutes.

‘Jailer 2’ (2026)

The Indian Tamil-language action comedy ‘Jailer 2’ arrives in limited theatrical release worldwide on October 15, 2026. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, the sequel marks the return of superstar Rajinikanth as formidable retired prison warden ‘Tiger’ Muthuvel Pandian. The sprawling narrative unites an ensemble cast featuring Vijay Sethupathi, Hrithik Roshan, and Mohanlal in prominent appearances alongside returning cast members. Following the events of the original hit, the story thrusts the seasoned protagonist into an escalated criminal conspiracy requiring extreme tactical measures to protect his loved ones. Clocking in at two hours and 55 minutes, the action-heavy film features large-scale set pieces and an original musical score composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

‘Musk’ (2026)

Directed by Oscar-winning documentarian Alex Gibney, the biographical documentary ‘Musk’ expands into a wide theatrical release on October 16, 2026, through Bleecker Street Media. The non-fiction project delivers an in-depth examination into the career, corporate empire, and political influence of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. Across an expansive runtime of three hours and 52 minutes, the film incorporates comprehensive archival footage alongside candid interviews with figures from Musk’s past and present. Among those appearing on camera are Musk’s former wife Justine Musk, media commentator Kara Swisher, and author Ashley St. Clair. The documentary provides an exhaustive analysis of technological ambition, immense personal wealth, and modern power dynamics.

‘Whalefall’ (2026)

The high-stakes survival thriller ‘Whalefall’ arrives in theaters nationwide on October 16, 2026, courtesy of 20th Century Studios. Adapted from the novel by Daniel Kraus and directed by Brian Duffield, the story centers on Jay Gardiner, a young scuba diver portrayed by Austin Abrams. While diving off the California coastline to recover the remains of his late father, played by Josh Brolin, Jay is unexpectedly swallowed alive by an eighty-foot sperm whale. Trapped deep underwater inside the animal’s stomach with only one hour of oxygen remaining, Jay must utilize his father’s rigorous survival teachings to formulate an impossible escape plan. The intense one-hour-and-46-minute drama also features supporting performances by Elisabeth Shue and Jane Levy.

‘Crawlers’ (2026)

Directed by Ángel Gómez Hernández, the creature feature ‘Crawlers’ opens wide in theaters on October 16, 2026, from Roadside Attractions. The plot unfolds inside an apartment complex that is abruptly sealed off and placed under strict quarantine following a suspicious fatality. Trapped residents soon discover that the true danger stems from an outbreak of venomous arachnids spreading rapidly through the building’s walls and vents. Matilda Lutz stars as Serena, an overworked property manager who must navigate the building’s layout to lead tenants away from the eight-legged infestation. Gregg Sulkin, Melina Matthews, and William Miller co-star in the horror thriller, which runs for one hour and 26 minutes.

‘Street Fighter’ (2026)

Paramount Pictures releases the live-action video game adaptation ‘Street Fighter’ to theaters nationwide on October 16, 2026. Directed by Kitao Sakurai, the film brings Capcom’s arcade fighting franchise to the screen with a storyline set during 1993. The narrative centers on Chun-Li, played by Callina Liang, as she recruits martial artists Ken Masters, played by Noah Centineo, and Ryu, played by Andrew Koji, to enter the World Warrior Tournament. As the fighters square off in brutal matches, they uncover a global conspiracy orchestrated by the ruthless dictator M. Bison, portrayed by David Dastmalchian. Jason Momoa co-stars as the feral warrior Blanka in an action spectacle that runs for one hour and 59 minutes.

‘La bola negra’ (2026)

Directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, the historical romance drama ‘La bola negra’ debuts in a limited theatrical rollout on October 16, 2026, distributed by Netflix. Inspired by the unfinished play by celebrated writer Federico García Lorca, the epic production explores love, secrecy, and queer resilience across multiple eras of Spanish history. Musician Guitarricadelafuente makes his acting debut as a reluctant soldier tasked with guarding an injured Republican soldier during the Spanish Civil War. Lorenzo Zurzolo, Javier Butler, Teo Lucadamo, Penélope Cruz, and Miguel Bernardeau round out the expansive ensemble cast. Spanning two hours and 40 minutes, the film examines the human cost of armed conflict alongside the preservation of repressed art.

‘The Trial of Alec Baldwin’ (2026)

Rory Kennedy’s crime documentary ‘The Trial of Alec Baldwin’ expands nationwide in theaters on October 16, 2026, through Abramorama. The investigative feature chronicles the three-year legal battle surrounding actor Alec Baldwin following the fatal 2021 shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of ‘Rust’. Through direct access to Baldwin and defense proceedings, the film details how the involuntary manslaughter charges were argued and subsequently dismissed in Santa Fe County. Beyond the courtroom proceedings, the documentary analyzes the intense collision of celebrity culture, round-the-clock media scrutiny, and public perception. The comprehensive non-fiction account runs for one hour and 51 minutes.

‘You Can See Everything’ (2026)

The non-fiction feature ‘You Can See Everything’ arrives in select theaters on October 16, 2026, courtesy of independent distributor A24. Co-directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, the documentary chronicles the weeks leading up to Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes surrendering to federal prison for investor fraud. The filmmakers embedded themselves with Holmes and her partner Billy Evans, filming domestic routines and conversations that extended over the course of three years. Fielder brings his probing comedic perspective into interactions with Holmes, questioning the boundaries between calculated public image and personal reality. Spanning two hours and 54 minutes, the documentary offers an unvarnished look at a convicted felon facing legal reality.

‘The Devils’ (1971)

Ken Russell’s landmark historical horror drama ‘The Devils’ returns to select theaters on October 16, 2026, showcased in a fully restored uncut 4K presentation. Based on Aldous Huxley’s book ‘The Devils of Loudun’, the 1971 production dramatizes the political and religious hysteria that engulfed seventeenth-century France. Oliver Reed commands the screen as Father Urbain Grandier, an outspoken priest whose political autonomy makes him a target for Cardinal Richelieu’s forces. Vanessa Redgrave portrays Sister Jeanne, a sexually repressed Abbess whose obsessive fixation on Grandier incites widespread accusations of demonic possession across her convent. Running one hour and 51 minutes, this restored director’s cut features supporting turns by Dudley Sutton and Max Adrian while displaying Derek Jarman’s striking sets.

‘Clean Hands’ (2026)

The biographical crime drama ‘Clean Hands’ arrives in limited theatrical release on October 16, 2026. Written and directed by Jake Allyn, the film dramatizes the true story of veteran police sergeant Kevin Simmers, portrayed by Zach Braff. While leading an aggressive anti-drug task force on the streets, the officer faces heartbreak at home as his nineteen-year-old daughter Brooke falls into severe opioid and heroin addiction. Esther McGregor stars opposite Braff as Brooke, anchoring an emotional family story that also features Holt McCallany and Abigail Spencer. Spanning one hour and 48 minutes, the film explores the domestic toll of the opioid crisis through the eyes of an officer battling to save his child.

‘Ranabaali’ (2026)

The Telugu-language historical action epic ‘Ranabaali’ makes its limited theatrical debut on October 16, 2026, presented by Netflix and theatrical partners. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, the narrative is set against the backdrop of the devastating Madras Famine during late nineteenth-century British colonial rule. Vijay Deverakonda stars as a valiant warrior who mobilizes local villagers into an armed rebellion against oppressive colonial officers. Rashmika Mandanna co-stars as his steadfast partner Jayamma, alongside an international supporting cast that includes Arnold Vosloo and Luke McGibney. Spanning three hours and five minutes, the production features grand battle sequences and a sweeping musical score composed by Ajay-Atul.

‘Prahaar’ (2026)

The Indian courtroom biographical drama ‘Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam’ opens in limited theaters on October 16, 2026, via Marudhar Films. Directed by Avinash Arun and produced by Maddock Films, the film depicts the legal career of prominent Indian special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. Rajkummar Rao stars as the legal strategist who spearheads trials following major national incidents, including the 1993 Bombay bombings and the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The narrative highlights the intense pressures, political scrutiny, and forensic casework required to secure convictions against high-profile perpetrators. Running two hours and 21 minutes, the drama also features Jaideep Ahlawat, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Lalit Prabhakar.

‘Nika & Madison’ (2026)

Eva Thomas makes her solo feature directorial debut with ‘Nika & Madison’, opening in limited theatrical release on October 16, 2026, from Indican Pictures. Expanded from the short film ‘Redlights’, the Canadian crime thriller centers on two estranged Indigenous women forced on the run together. Ellyn Jade and Star Slade star as the titular protagonists, whose lives are upended after a violent altercation with a predatory police officer leaves the lawman in a coma. Fleeing across remote wilderness territory, the women must navigate their shared trauma while evading a manhunt involving detectives played by Shawn Doyle and Amanda Brugel. The survival drama maintains a taut pace throughout its one-hour-and-27-minute running time.

‘Trust Me, I’m a Doctor’ (2026)

Briarcliff Entertainment brings the biographical comedy-drama ‘Trust Me, I’m a Doctor’ to theaters nationwide on October 16, 2026. Directed by Thane Economou, the screenplay adapts the memoir of Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, portrayed by Kal Penn. The plot chronicles the media circus that erupts when the physician is indicted following the 2007 overdose death of his celebrity patient, Anna Nicole Smith, played by Abbie Cornish. Linda Hamilton co-stars as Ellyn Garofalo, the pragmatic defense attorney who represents Kapoor through leaked private journals and a high-stakes conspiracy trial. Clocking in at one hour and 51 minutes, the film examines the chaotic intersection of legal procedures, tabloid journalism, and celebrity tragedy.

‘Sense and Sensibility’ (2026)

Focus Features releases the period romantic drama ‘Sense and Sensibility’ in wide distribution on October 16, 2026. Directed by Georgia Oakley from a screenplay by Diana Reid, the film delivers a grounded interpretation of Jane Austen’s 1811 novel. Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as the pragmatic Elinor Dashwood alongside Esmé Creed-Miles as her passionate, romantic sister Marianne. Following the death of their father, the sisters and their mother, played by Caitríona Balfe, must forfeit their family home and relocate to a modest cottage while navigating societal courtship. Featuring Frank Dillane, George MacKay, and Fiona Shaw, this literary adaptation carries a runtime of two hours and 11 minutes.

‘Poetic License’ (2026)

The college-set comedy-drama ‘Poetic License’ arrives in limited theatrical release on October 16, 2026, through Row K Entertainment. Marking the feature directorial debut of Maude Apatow, the film stars Leslie Mann as Liz, a former therapist coping with empty-nest syndrome after moving to a small university town. While auditing a college poetry seminar, Liz forms an unexpected bond with senior undergraduates Sam and Ari, portrayed by Cooper Hoffman and Andrew Barth Feldman. Their lighthearted friendship soon transforms into a competitive rivalry as both young men develop feelings for their older classmate. The film runs for one hour and 57 minutes and features supporting turns from Nico Parker and Cliff “Method Man” Smith.

‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ (2026)

Distributed by Neon, the historical documentary ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ opens in limited theaters on October 16, 2026. Filmed in 1972 by pioneer documentarian William Greaves, the long-unreleased footage was assembled and completed fifty years later by his son David Greaves. The film documents an intimate gathering of Harlem Renaissance luminaries during a cocktail reception hosted at Duke Ellington’s Manhattan residence. Participants including artist Romare Bearden, poet Arna Bontemps, photographer James Van DerZee, and activist Ida Mae Cullen debate cultural changes and reflect on their creative achievements. Across a runtime of one hour and 40 minutes, this cinematic archive offers a firsthand celebration of twentieth-century Black arts and culture.

‘Lucky Strikes’ (2024)

Indican Pictures delivers the independent sports comedy ‘Lucky Strikes’ to select theaters on October 16, 2026. The narrative follows an eclectic group of local bowling enthusiasts who learn that their neighborhood bowling center is slated for demolition by corporate developers. Determined to keep their establishment open, the underdogs organize an unorthodox tournament to secure the necessary funds and rally their community. Meegwun Fairbrother and Gabriel Daniels lead the cast as dedicated teammates navigating comedic hurdles both on and off the lanes. Supporting performances by Stephanie Sy and Star Slade complete the comedic ensemble across a running time of one hour and 20 minutes.

‘Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub’ (2026)

The South Korean crime thriller ‘Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub’ premieres in limited North American theaters on October 16, 2026, through Well Go USA Entertainment. Serving as the newest installment in the long-running gambling franchise, the plot revolves around two former allies who established an underground gaming empire. Byun Yo-han stars as Jang Tae-young, a fallen card player seeking revenge against his former partner, played by Roh Jae-won, after experiencing a devastating betrayal. Their feud leads them to an international high-stakes poker circuit where vast sums of wealth and personal survival are on the line. Spanning two hours and nine minutes, the action thriller features Ayaka Miyoshi and Yoo Da Hye in supporting roles.

‘The Only Living Pickpocket in New York’ (2026)

Directed by Noah Segan, the character-driven crime drama ‘The Only Living Pickpocket in New York’ enters limited theaters on October 16, 2026, via Sony Pictures Releasing. John Turturro stars as Harry Lehman, an aging pickpocket plying his trade across the transit system of a modern metropolis where physical currency has become obsolete. Needing funds to care for his disabled wife, Harry steals an unfamiliar digital flash drive from an arrogant mob scion, played by Will Price. When the crime syndicate targets him, the veteran thief must use his wits to recover the stolen item before violence catches up to his family. Giancarlo Esposito, Tatiana Maslany, and Steve Buscemi co-star in the one-hour-and-28-minute feature.

‘Flywheel: Ignition of the Soul’ (2026)

Sony Pictures Releasing and Affirm Films launch the faith-based drama ‘Flywheel: Ignition of the Soul’ into wide theatrical release on October 16, 2026. Reimagined in Brazil with direct guidance from filmmakers Alex and Stephen Kendrick, the movie updates the Kendricks’ 2003 debut feature for contemporary audiences. Set in Rio de Janeiro, the story follows Noah Silva, played by Mario Bregieira, a dishonest used-car salesman whose unscrupulous business methods begin unraveling his personal life. After facing a series of personal wake-up calls, Noah initiates a difficult spiritual journey to restore his moral integrity and repair ties with his family. Running one hour and 50 minutes, the drama features performances by Adriano Canindé, Pérola Faria, and Felipe Folgosi.

‘Spirited Away’ (2001)

Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning animated classic ‘Spirited Away’ returns to theaters for special screenings on October 17, 2026, courtesy of Fathom Events. The limited theatrical presentation marks the film’s 25th anniversary as part of Studio Ghibli Fest 2026. The fantasy adventure centers on ten-year-old Chihiro Ogino, who accidentally wanders into an abandoned amusement park that serves as a sanctuary for spirits and supernatural deities. After her parents are magically transformed into pigs, Chihiro secures a job at an enchanted bathhouse run by the witch Yubaba in an effort to free them. Featuring voice performances by Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, and Mari Natsuki, the celebrated film features an imaginative runtime of two hours and four minutes.

Which of these new theatrical releases are you planning to watch on the big screen, and which titles are you most anticipating—share your thoughts in the comments.