2026 movie release dates: Every Marvel, Disney and Pixar blockbuster scheduled so far

2026 is expected to be a significant year for the film industry. 'Avengers: Doomsday,' 'The Mandalorian & Grogu,' 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,' 'Moana,' and 'Toy Story 5' are all aiming for big theatrical moments. Superheroes, space western adventure, video-game spectacle, island mythology, and animated nostalgia will share the calendar. Studios are leaning into scale, recognizable worlds, and multigenerational appeal, hoping to turn releases into events rather than simple weekends at the cinema. If everything lands, exhibitors could see crowded halls, long presales, and the kind of word-of-mouth that keeps films playing for months.

Marvel Studios is teeing up a new tentpole, with 'Avengers: Doomsday' dated for December 18, 2026. The Russo brothers are set to direct, and the title alone signals a darker, endgame-sized event. Downey Jr.'s confirmed participation on Marvel's channels has fueled intense theorizing about where the MCU heads next. Expect secrecy, carefully timed reveals, and marketing built around scale. Premium formats are part of the strategy, underlining that this chapter is designed as a must-see spectacle.

Lucasfilm is steering 'The Mandalorian & Grogu' toward a May 22, 2026, release, transitioning the streaming-era favorites to theaters. Jon Favreau directs, with Pedro Pascal's Din Djarin and Grogu remaining the emotional anchor. The pitch is escalation: wider worlds, heavier action, and imagery tailored for giant screens. Casting additions such as Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White have broadened the spotlight beyond existing fans. It's also a strategic bridge that unites television viewers with theatrical audiences. The result should feel familiar yet upgraded, a homecoming that plays like a cinematic event.

Disney's live-action 'Moana' is positioned for July 10, 2026, arriving a decade after the animated original became a cultural fixture. Catherine Laga'aia takes on the title role, while Dwayne Johnson reprises Maui to maintain continuity for audiences. Filming across locations, including Hawaii, aims to ground the spectacle in tangible landscapes. Music remains the primary focus, particularly how signature numbers translate into a different cinematic texture. Disney views the film as a four-quadrant summer driver, pairing recognizable storytelling with fresh performances and upgraded visuals.

Nintendo and Illumination continue their partnership with 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,' set for April 3, 2026, in the United States. After the enormous performance of the previous outing, expectations are naturally high. Reports indicate that the story will draw inspiration from the gravity-bending Galaxy games, introducing new characters and exploring wilder environments. Easter eggs are practically guaranteed to reward longtime players while keeping the humor accessible to families. Visually, the emphasis is on speed, color, and momentum. The goal is simple: deliver another crowd magnet that travels well across generations.

Pixar returns to one of animation's most trusted brands with 'Toy Story 5,' scheduled for June 19, 2026. Andrew Stanton is directing, and early teasers describe a premise centered on "toy meets tech," reflecting how childhood continues to evolve. That setup creates room for comedy while preserving the reflective tone longtime fans expect. Each installment has spoken to both children and adults, and the studio is betting the formula still works. With nostalgia strong and families eager, the film is lined up as a centerpiece of the summer marketplace.