2026 arrives with a powerful lineup that blends psychological thrillers, family-friendly animation, musical romance, human drama, and a new adaptation of a Latin American literary classic. Starting January 1, theaters welcome stories that promise excitement, suspense, humor, and tears. Here’s a rundown of the most anticipated titles of the year’s first half.
Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried star in this dark thriller that follows a young woman who accepts a job as a live-in housemaid for a seemingly perfect family. What begins as a chance to reinvent herself soon turns into a maze of secrets, lies, and obsessions that threaten to consume her.
Did you know? The film is based on the literary phenomenon The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, which has spent over 75 weeks on The New York Times best-seller list.
SpongeBob, Patrick, and the entire Bikini Bottom crew set off on their biggest adventure yet. To prove to Mr. Krabs that he’s no longer a kid, SpongeBob follows the ghostly Flying Dutchman on a mission that takes him to never-before-seen corners of the ocean. Nautical humor, catchy songs, and plenty of heart from one of the most beloved characters for kids and adults alike.
Did you know? This is the first film in the franchise set entirely on the open sea, featuring animated locations never before seen in the Bikini Bottom universe.
Twenty years after becoming a survival-horror classic, The Descent returns to theaters to prove it’s still as suffocating and brutal as ever. What starts as a therapeutic caving expedition among friends turns into a nightmare when a cave-in traps them underground. In total darkness, six women must fight not only subterranean predators but also their own fears, guilt, and resentments, which surface with the same violence as the creatures stalking them.
Did you know? Directed by Neil Marshall (Hellboy, Doomsday) and originally released in 2005, the film grossed over $57 million worldwide—more than twenty times its original budget.
On Halloween night, Benny—a killer who spent decades confined to a psychiatric hospital—escapes and unleashes a wave of terror in 1980s Seattle. Hidden behind a disturbing scarecrow costume, he prowls teenage parties, alleyways, and Victorian homes, attacking unsuspecting youths and turning the celebration into a bloodbath. But his crimes aren’t random: his true target is Cassandra, a young woman with a dark past and a secret connection to the killer, making the hunt increasingly personal.
Did you know? The film directly channels classic slasher cinema, reviving the look and spirit of 1980s horror with explicit violence and a masked villain reminiscent of the genre’s greatest icons.
In this animated film for kids and adults alike, Norberto is a spy who’s as incompetent as he is charming. He lives in a gray, bureaucratic country determined to conquer its colorful neighbor, Colorlandia. Without meaning to, Norberto becomes the only hope of stopping his own government’s absurd plans, embarking on a journey full of humor, adventure, and self-discovery.
Did you know? The film is an Argentine–Spanish co-production directed by José Corral Llorente, acclaimed and awarded at numerous international festivals.
Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, and Tonatiuh star in this new adaptation of Manuel Puig’s classic novel, directed by Oscar winner Bill Condon. Set in an Argentine prison, it tells the story of the bond between Valentín, a political prisoner, and Molina, a man jailed for his identity. Through memories of old movies, repression, and desire, a deep complicity emerges, illuminating even the darkest corners.
Did you know? The film features Argentine actress Josefina Scaglione, a standout figure in both national and international musical theater.
Based on a true story, the film brings together Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson as two down-on-their-luck musicians who form a Neil Diamond tribute band. He’s a Vietnam veteran and recovering alcoholic; she’s a singer with a unique sparkle. Together, they discover an emotional connection that transforms their lives on and off the stage. Romance, music, and second chances.
Did you know? Written and directed by Craig Brewer, the film is inspired by Greg Kohs’ documentary about one of the most beloved tribute bands in the U.S.
Phillip, an American actor in Tokyo, finds work at an agency that provides “stand-in family members” for people who need to perform roles in their lives—a father, a boyfriend, a friend. As he becomes involved in his clients’ stories, the line between acting and reality begins to blur, forcing him to question his identity and his ability to truly connect.
Did you know? The film stars Brendan Fraser and is directed by HIKARI, the Japanese filmmaker acclaimed for her award-winning film 37 Seconds.
Discover Time Out original video