Netflix continues to dominate the streaming landscape in 2026 with a slate of original films and high-profile licensed titles. Subscribers can expect a mix of big-budget blockbusters, festival acquisitions, and international productions. This guide covers the most notable new movies arriving on Netflix in 2026, including release dates, cast details, and where to find them. For help tracking down any film across multiple platforms, see The Complete Guide to Finding Any Movie on Legal Streaming Services in 2026.
Netflix Original Films in 2026
Netflix is investing heavily in original content, with over 70 original films scheduled for release in 2026. Below are the most anticipated titles.
1. The Electric State (March 2026)
Directed by the Russo brothers, this sci-fi adventure stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt. Based on the graphic novel by Simon Stålenhag, the film is set in an alternate 1990s where a teenager travels across the American West with a robot. Budget estimated at $320 million, making it one of Netflix’s most expensive films. Filming took place in Atlanta, Georgia, and featured extensive CGI.
2. Back in Action (January 17, 2026)
A spy comedy starring Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx, directed by Seth Gordon. Diaz returns to acting after an 11-year hiatus. The plot follows former CIA agents pulled back into espionage. Filmed in London and Atlanta. Production budget around $150 million.
3. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Fall 2026)
The third installment in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out franchise, with Daniel Craig reprising his role as Detective Benoit Blanc. Cast includes Josh O’Connor, Cailee Spaeny, and Andrew Scott. Filmed in Greece and the UK. Budget estimated at $210 million. Netflix acquired the rights for $469 million for two sequels.
4. The Old Guard 2 (Summer 2026)
Sequel to the 2020 hit, starring Charlize Theron as Andy. Directed by Victoria Mahoney. Filming completed in 2024 but delayed due to post-production. The film introduces new immortal characters. Budget around $150 million.
5. Happy Gilmore 2 (Summer 2026)
Adam Sandler returns as Happy Gilmore in this long-anticipated sequel. Directed by Kyle Newacheck. Filmed in New Jersey and California. Christopher McDonald reprises his role as Shooter McGavin. Budget estimated at $120 million.
Licensed Movies Coming to Netflix in 2026
Netflix also secures licensing deals with major studios. Notable titles expected in 2026 include:
- Wicked: Part One (Universal) – Expected on Netflix in late 2026 as part of the Pay-1 window, approximately 8 months after theatrical release.
- Inside Out 2 (Disney) – Likely to arrive on Netflix in the US in 2027, but international rights may vary.
- Dune: Part Three (Warner Bros.) – Theatrical release December 2026; Netflix may acquire streaming rights in certain regions.
For a detailed overview of how streaming rights work and when movies appear on different services, refer to our guide to legal streaming.
International Gems and Festival Pickups
Netflix continues to acquire films from international festivals. In 2026, look for:
- The Shadowless Tower (China) – Zhang Lu’s drama won Best Film at the 2023 Pingyao festival; streaming on Netflix in early 2026.
- La Chimera (Italy) – Alice Rohrwacher’s film starring Josh O’Connor, acquired after Cannes 2023.
- Robot Dreams (Spain) – Animated feature nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 2024 Oscars; available on Netflix in 2026 in select regions.
These titles often have limited theatrical runs before appearing on Netflix. Check the complete guide for regional availability.
Pricing and Subscription Tiers
Netflix in 2026 offers four plans in the US:
- Standard with ads: $6.99/month – 720p, limited catalog.
- Standard: $15.49/month – 1080p, no ads.
- Premium: $22.99/month – 4K HDR, 6 simultaneous streams.
- Premium+: $29.99/month – 4K, Dolby Atmos, spatial audio.
Prices in the UK start at £4.99 (ads) to £15.99 (Premium). In Canada, CAD $9.99 to $20.99. All tiers now include the option to download titles for offline viewing.
How to Find Any Movie on Netflix
With thousands of titles rotating monthly, finding a specific film can be tricky. Use these tips:
- Search by genre codes: Netflix uses hidden category codes (e.g., 1365 for Action). Enter them in the URL: netflix.com/browse/genre/1365.
- Check “Coming Soon” sections: Netflix now has a dedicated “Coming in 2026” hub.
- Third-party trackers: Sites like What’s on Netflix maintain release calendars.
- Use the guide: Again, our complete guide covers all legal streaming services.
Anticipated Sequels and Franchise Films
Netflix is betting on established franchises. Key titles:
- Extraction 3 – Chris Hemsworth returns; filming in 2025; release late 2026.
- Enola Holmes 3 – Millie Bobby Brown and Henry Cavill; expected in 2026.
- The Witcher: The Movie – Animated film set in the Witcher universe; release TBD 2026.
Budget for these sequels ranges from $80 million to $200 million. All are produced by Netflix Studios.
Documentaries and Specials
Netflix also releases high-profile documentaries in 2026:
- Our Planet II – Narrated by David Attenborough; premieres in April.
- The Greatest Night in Pop 2 – Follow-up to the 2024 documentary about “We Are the World.”
- What Happened, Britney? – A two-part doc about Britney Spears’s conservatorship aftermath.
Most documentaries are included in all subscription tiers.
Regional Exclusives
Netflix produces local content for key markets. In 2026:
- India: Jawan 2 (Hindi) and Kantara 2 (Kannada).
- Japan: Ultraman: Rising 2 (anime).
- South Korea: Train to Busan 3 (live-action).
- UK: The Crown: The Movie – a feature-length special.
These titles may have limited availability outside their home regions. Use a VPN? Note that Netflix actively blocks most VPNs in 2026.
Conclusion
2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Netflix movies, with a diverse lineup from sci-fi epics to intimate dramas. Whether you’re a fan of big-budget spectacles or indie gems, there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye on the release calendar and use the resources mentioned to never miss a title. For the most comprehensive approach to finding any movie across all streaming platforms, don’t forget to consult The Complete Guide to Finding Any Movie on Legal Streaming Services in 2026.