Best Movies of 2026 So Far
Rolling Stone • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The first half of 2026 has been a mixed bag for movies, featuring both unexpected hits and notable flops across various genres, including horror, literary adaptations, and biopics.
- Traditional cinematic universes and nostalgia-driven projects struggled at the box office, with several highly anticipated films underperforming or barely remembered despite their initial hype.
- The indie horror film "Obsession," acquired by Focus Features for $20 million, surprisingly became the eighth highest-grossing movie of the year, outperforming major franchises like Star Wars, DC, and Scream.
- The year also saw a diverse range of standout films, including late releases from 2025, indie and documentary projects, and unique genre films that resonated deeply with audiences despite limited mainstream attention.
- Honorable mentions for noteworthy films in early 2026 include titles like "Backrooms," "I Love Boosters," and "The President’s Cake," highlighting the variety and creativity present in the current cinematic landscape.
