Get ready for an exciting lineup of new movies set to captivate audiences throughout 2026. This month kicks off with some must-see films that are already making waves.
While the US release schedule is relatively quiet, with Greenland 2: Migration and Primate premiering this weekend (January 9-11), international viewers can enjoy new releases like the award-winning Hamnet.
Stay tuned as I will be updating this article with more new films in the coming weeks. For now, here’s a look at the new movies to anticipate in January 2026.
New Movies: January
Hamnet
Release date: out now (US and UK); January 15 (Australia)
This award-winning period drama, focusing on Shakespeare's wife Agnes, has made its way to UK cinemas after its initial US release late last year. With standout performances from Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, Hamnet explores the tragic events that inspired Shakespeare's iconic play 'Hamlet'. Directed by Chloe Zhao, it’s a film that deserves your attention.
Greenland 2: Migration
Release date: out now (worldwide)
This sequel to the 2020 disaster film featuring Gerard Butler is timely, given current global events. While it has received mixed reviews, sitting at 56% on Rotten Tomatoes, it offers an easy watch as it follows the Garrity family on their quest for a new home a decade after the first film.
Primate
Release date: out now (US); January 22 (Australia); January 30 (UK)
2026's first horror film features a chimpanzee that goes wild after being bitten by a rabid animal. Despite its familiar premise, Primate has garnered a 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting it may be worth a watch.
It Was Just An Accident
Release date: out now (worldwide)
This mystery thriller-drama has received critical acclaim since its October 2025 release, currently holding a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Jafar Panahi, it follows Vahid, a mechanic who confronts a man from his past, leading to unexpected consequences.
Christy
Release date: out now (worldwide)
Starring Sydney Sweeney, Christy chronicles the life of former professional boxer Christy Martin. Despite its critical acclaim (67% on Rotten Tomatoes), it struggled at the box office after a disappointing debut.
No Other Choice
Release date: out now (US); January 15 (Australia); January 23 (UK)
Featuring Lee Byung-hun, this satirical black comedy thriller has received high praise, with a 98% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes. It tells the story of a man desperate to prove his worth to his family.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Release date: January 14 (UK); January 15 (Australia); January 16 (US)
This sequel continues the story of the Rage virus, focusing on Doctor Kelson's discoveries and the challenges faced by Spike as he encounters dangerous characters.
The History of Sound
Release date: out now (US); January 15 (Australia); January 23 (UK)
Starring Paul Mescal, this film explores the bond between two men over their love for folk music, receiving an 89% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Rental Family
Release date: out now (US and Australia); January 16 (UK)
Brendan Fraser stars in this touching story about a struggling actor hired to play family roles for strangers. It has received positive reviews, holding an 88% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Marty Supreme
Release date: out now (US and UK); January 22 (Australia)
Timothée Chalamet stars in this sports drama, which has a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, depicting the journey of a determined table tennis player.
Mercy
Release date: January 22 (Australia); January 23 (US and UK)
This sci-fi film features Chris Pratt as a detective on trial for his wife's murder, facing a unique challenge from an AI judge.
H is for Hawk
Release date: January 23 (US and UK); TBC (Australia)
Based on a memoir, this film tells the story of a woman who bonds with a goshawk after her father's death, currently holding a 75% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Blue Moon
Release date: out now (US and UK); January 29 (Australia)
Starring Ethan Hawke, this film has received acclaim from both fans and critics, focusing on the life of lyricist Lorenz Hart.
Is This Thing On?
Release date: out now (US); January 30 (UK); February 5 (Australia)
Directed by Bradley Cooper, this comedy-drama explores the end of a marriage and the solace found in the comedy scene, with strong ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.
For more movie recommendations, check out our lists of new Netflix movies, new HBO Max movies, new Prime Video movies, and new Disney+ movies.
