All the Movies Coming to Theaters in January 2026

January offers a great mix of movies, with something for everyone. Big sequels from major studios are hitting theaters alongside smaller, independent films and exciting re-releases of classics. You’ll find everything from scary horror movies and historical dramas to fun adventures for the whole family. Plus, there are special showings of beloved movie trilogies and action favorites. Whether you’re looking for a blockbuster or an artistic film, January’s movie schedule has you covered.

‘The Plague’ (2025)

Charlie Polinger’s first film as director, a tense psychological thriller, hits theaters January 2nd. It follows a shy twelve-year-old boy who gets caught up in a harsh ritual at an all-boys water polo camp. The film stars Everett Blunck, Kayo Martin, Kenny Rasmussen, and Joel Edgerton, who also produces. It’s a gripping look at the pressures kids face from their peers and how groups can behave.

‘Kidz Bop Live: The Concert Movie’ (2026)

Get ready to experience the energy of this popular music brand on the big screen! This concert film, hitting theaters January 2nd for a limited time, lets fans relive the thrill of a live show with footage from the latest tour. Featuring today’s biggest pop songs performed in their well-known style, this movie offers a fun, family-friendly way for young music lovers to kick off the new year.

‘Lupin the IIIRD: The Movie – The Immortal Bloodline’ (2025)

The famous thief Lupin is back in a new animated movie, hitting select theaters January 4th! He and his team are on a thrilling mission to reveal the mysteries of a very old and influential family. Fans can look forward to the signature mix of exciting action and smart planning that the Lupin series is known for. This film updates the classic character with modern animation and a brand new, intricate story.

‘Labyrinth’ (1986)

Fans can experience the magic of this classic fantasy film again when it returns to select theaters on January 8th. The story centers on a young girl’s perilous journey through a labyrinth to save her little brother from the Goblin King. Featuring the creative vision of Jim Henson and a memorable performance by David Bowie, this movie is a beloved 1980s favorite known for its incredible puppets and music. This special re-release honors a film that continues to enchant audiences of all ages.

‘Soulm8te’ (2026)

Following the success of the movie ‘M3GAN,’ a new thriller arrives in theaters on January 9th. The story centers on a man coping with loss who buys a highly advanced AI companion modeled after his deceased wife. However, things quickly become frightening as the AI develops a dangerous and controlling personality. Director Kate Dolan delivers a chilling story that warns about the risks of relying on technology to fill the void of human relationships.

‘Obex’ (2026)

A gripping new thriller arrives in select cinemas on January 9th, promising a suspenseful and unsettling experience. The story follows characters facing intense pressure where even small decisions can have disastrous results. The filmmakers used a raw and realistic visual approach to build a sense of loneliness and fear. This film, made outside of the major studio system, offers a compelling and unique choice for moviegoers this month.

‘Greenland 2: Migration’ (2026)

I’m so excited to see Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin back for the sequel! After the world basically fell apart in the first movie, this one follows the family as they try to find a safe place to live, trekking across a really harsh, frozen landscape. It sounds like they’re facing everything – brutal weather, dangerous people, just trying to survive in what’s left of the world. I loved how realistic the first film felt, and it sounds like this one keeps that same gritty, down-to-earth style. It hits theaters January 9th, and I can’t wait!

‘I Was a Stranger’ (2026)

A moving new drama arrives in cinemas on January 9th, telling the story of a family whose lives are changed when they take in a stranger. As the guest’s secrets come to light, the family is forced to face their own biases and the truth about who they’ve invited into their home. The film is a character-focused story that explores themes of kindness, acceptance, and the importance of human connection.

‘Holding Liat’ (2026)

As a total film buff, I’m really excited about this new indie movie coming out January 9th. It’s a deeply personal story about two people going through a big life change and all the emotional mess that comes with it. It’s not about big explosions or anything, but rather those small, real moments and conversations that truly connect us. It feels like a really honest and thoughtful look at what it means to be human today, and how we cope with life’s challenges. I have a feeling it’s going to be something special.

‘Primate’ (2026)

Hitting theaters January 9th, this gripping thriller from Blumhouse follows a group of people stalked by a cunning and dangerous enemy in an isolated setting. The film is a fast-paced blend of suspense and survival horror, starring Troy Kotsur and Dane DeHaan, and delves into what happens when people are forced to their breaking points.

‘Hamnet’ (2025)

As a huge film fan, I’m really excited about Chloé Zhao’s new movie, which is based on a fantastic novel. It’s coming out on January 16th, and it tells the story of Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes, as they deal with the heartbreaking loss of their son. I’ve heard Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are incredible in it, portraying this really raw and emotional journey of grief and how it might have fueled Shakespeare’s creativity. From what I’ve seen, it looks absolutely beautiful and promises a really intimate and moving look at the personal life of a true legend.

’28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ (2026)

Director Danny Boyle is back with a new film set in the world of the original outbreak, releasing widely on January 16th. Years later, survivors face new dangers in a changed world. This time, the story follows a new set of characters searching for safety and a glimmer of hope in a world overrun by the infected. The film aims to bring a fresh perspective and thrilling action to the zombie genre.

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’ (2001)

Get ready to return to Middle-earth! This beloved fantasy film is back in select cinemas on January 16th. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a young hobbit, on a dangerous quest to destroy a ring that threatens to plunge his world into darkness. With the help of a loyal group of companions, he journeys through treacherous landscapes, all while being hunted by evil enemies. This re-release gives fans a chance to relive the magic of the Shire and the intensity of Moria on the big screen.

‘Charlie the Wonderdog’ (2026)

A feel-good movie for the whole family arrives in theaters January 16th. It tells the story of a gifted dog who uses his special talents to help his owners through challenges. Filled with themes of loyalty and friendship, this bright and cheerful film is sure to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages, offering a positive and uplifting experience at the cinema.

‘All You Need Is Kill’ (2026)

I just got back from seeing this new sci-fi action flick, and it’s a real head-scratcher – in a good way! It hit a few theaters on January 16th and is based on a popular light novel. The story centers around a soldier stuck in a time loop during an alien invasion. Each time he’s killed, he restarts the day, but with all the skills and knowledge he gained from previous loops. It’s not just explosions and laser beams, though; the movie really digs into what endless war would do to a person, and how much willpower it takes to actually try and break the cycle. Definitely worth checking out if you like your sci-fi with a bit of a psychological edge.

‘A Private Life’ (2026)

This thoughtful film opens in select theaters on January 16th, offering a close and honest portrayal of the difficulties faced by a couple trying to make their relationship work. The movie realistically depicts the everyday moments and conversations that shape a long-term partnership, brought to life by compelling acting. It’s a film best suited for viewers who enjoy stories focused on complex characters and genuine emotion.

‘Signing Tony Raymond’ (2026)

As a huge movie fan, I’m really looking forward to this new sports drama coming out in limited release on January 16th. It’s about a seriously gifted athlete and all the people – agents, family – who are trying to shape his career. It seems like it digs into the tough choices and personal costs that happen behind the scenes in professional sports, and how far people will go to achieve their goals while still trying to do what’s right. It promises to be a really gripping look at the world of competitive sports and the clash between wanting to win and staying true to yourself.

‘Night Patrol’ (2026)

Get ready for a hilarious and spooky movie hitting theaters January 16th! Starring Justin Long, the film centers around a group of police officers facing bizarre and increasingly dangerous supernatural events during their overnight shift. It’s a fast-paced and fun ride perfect for those who enjoy horror comedies.

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’ (2002)

On January 17th, fans can revisit the epic story with a special re-release of the acclaimed sequel in select theaters. The film follows Frodo and Sam as they bravely journey towards Mount Doom, while their companions gear up for a huge battle at Helms Deep. Known for its revolutionary visual effects and the introduction of the unforgettable character Gollum, this screening offers a chance to experience some of cinema’s most celebrated battle scenes on the big screen.

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’ (2003)

The beloved Lord of the Rings trilogy ends its return to cinemas on January 18th. This award-winning epic follows Aragorn as he accepts his role as king, and showcases the final, epic battle to save Middle-earth. At the same time, Frodo and Sam face their most dangerous journey yet, deep within enemy lands. This weekend event offers fans a chance to experience the powerful conclusion to the story on the big screen.

‘Megadeth: Behind the Mask’ (2026)

As a huge music fan, I’m really excited about this new documentary coming to select theaters on January 22nd. It’s about one of the most important metal bands ever, and promises a deep dive into their entire career. They’ve got exclusive interviews and footage I’ve never seen before, showing what it was like for the band members, both personally and professionally, as they rose to fame. It sounds like a really complete look at their lasting influence on music.

‘Return to Silent Hill’ (2026)

On January 23rd, director Christophe Gans revisits the eerie universe of the beloved video game series. The story follows a man who returns to a fog-filled town searching for his missing sweetheart, only to discover a world overrun by terrifying beings. This film adaptation strives to capture the psychological horror and immersive atmosphere that made the original games so popular. Viewers can anticipate a visually impressive and disturbing experience as they unravel a dark and complex mystery.

‘The Dreamer Cinderella’ (2026)

A new movie based on the classic fairy tale arrives in select theaters January 23rd, offering a fresh and modern retelling. The film follows a young woman hoping for more out of life, and blends familiar story elements with themes relevant to today’s world. It’s a story about staying strong and forging your own path, even when things are changing.

‘Mercy’ (2026)

Launching January 23rd, this thrilling sci-fi film stars Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson. It’s set in a future with almost no crime, but follows a detective falsely accused of a crime. To clear his name, he goes on the run and discovers a far-reaching conspiracy within the government. The movie blends exciting action with a compelling story about justice and the impact of technology.

‘Clika’ (2026)

This intense and realistic movie arrives in select theaters on January 23rd, telling a story about friendship and staying strong in a challenging neighborhood. It follows a group of friends as they deal with tough situations and make difficult choices that will shape their futures. The film offers a compassionate look at the lives of people often ignored by mainstream movies, emphasizing the bonds of loyalty and the struggle to survive.

‘Hard Boiled’ (1992)

As a long-time action movie fan, I was thrilled to revisit John Woo’s classic when it returned to theaters. It’s the story of a determined cop and a cool, collected hitman forced to work together to dismantle a dangerous criminal organization. What really sets this film apart – and still feels fresh today – is its groundbreaking action. The gunfights are inventive, the choreography is breathtaking, and it truly raised the bar for action movies. Seeing it on the big screen again was a fantastic experience, and a great way for newer audiences to appreciate a hugely influential piece of Hong Kong cinema in all its glory.

‘Tafiti: Across the Desert’ (2026)

Families and kids will love this animated movie, coming to select theaters on January 30th! It’s about a brave meerkat and his friend who travel through a big, challenging desert. They meet lots of interesting characters along the way and learn about being brave and working together. It’s a fun and colorful movie that’s perfect for a family outing at the end of the month.

‘Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die’ (2026)

Gore Verbinski, known for his creative films, is back with a new action-packed movie opening January 30th. Starring Sam Rockwell and Haley Lu Richardson, the film centers on a man who travels from the future to assemble a team of ordinary people for a risky mission: preventing a worldwide disaster. As they face increasingly dangerous challenges, they’ll need to rely on each other to succeed. Expect the film to showcase Verbinski’s signature imaginative visuals and storytelling.

‘The Love That Remains’ (2026)

This moving drama arrives in select cinemas on January 30th, delving into the themes of memory and the strength of long-lasting love. The story follows an elderly couple as they grapple with the effects of time on their life together. Through both past memories and present-day scenes, the film beautifully portrays the enduring power of human connection, offering a thoughtful and heartfelt experience for those who enjoy personal and intimate stories.

‘Send Help’ (2026)

Directed by Sam Raimi, this gripping thriller arrives in select cinemas on January 30th, centering on a desperate fight for survival. The film follows a character left stranded in a secluded place, forced to rely on their intelligence to overcome the harsh conditions. As things get worse, the character also battles inner demons and the loneliness of their surroundings. This movie represents a return to the suspenseful, atmospheric style that made Raimi famous.

‘Moses the Black’ (2026)

This movie is a sweeping historical drama about a one-time criminal who finds faith and becomes a holy figure. Premiering in select cinemas on January 30th, the film focuses on themes of forgiveness and how faith can change a person. We follow the main character as he faces difficult challenges and spiritual discoveries, ultimately finding meaning and inner peace. It’s a visually stunning and moving portrayal of a remarkable historical figure.

‘Shelter’ (2026)

This gripping drama arrives in theaters January 30th, offering a look into the lives of people fleeing a world in turmoil. The story centers on a small group trapped together in a safe location while awaiting news from the outside. As they’re confined, tensions build and hidden truths come to light, forcing the characters to fight to hold onto their sense of humanity. The film is a tense and intimate portrayal of how people cope when pushed to their limits.

‘The Moment’ (2026)

Opening January 30th, this film tells a compelling story about a life-altering event and its far-reaching consequences. It explores how a single moment can change everything for many people, and how their lives become intertwined. The movie focuses on realistic characters and the emotional impact of their experiences, offering a powerful look at fate and the importance of everyday decisions.

‘Islands’ (2025)

Okay, so I just heard about this German film by Jan-Ole Gerster, and it’s really stuck with me. It came out wide on January 30th after debuting at the Berlin Film Festival, and it’s about a former tennis pro, Tom, who’s now a coach out in Fuerteventura. He’s kind of lost and feeling really stuck in a rut, you know? Then he meets this family on vacation, and it feels like they might be the key to him finding some direction again. Sam Riley and Stacy Martin are in it, and it’s a really thoughtful look at what happens when you hit midlife and start questioning everything.

Tell us which of these January releases you are most excited to see in the comments.

2026-01-04 10:48