Summer 2026 movie preview
Here are some quick previews of notable films coming out this summer, along with a list of other films to keep an eye on.
“Backrooms” (May 29)
Inspired by a series of popular internet horror stories, this film follows Clark (Chitwel Ejifor) as he discovers a seemingly never-ending series of yellow rooms in the back of a mall. The horror of this film will most likely focus more on “liminal spaces” and the anxiety of being stuck somewhere seemingly endless. Internet creators have interpreted this concept in a variety of ways, so I am interested in how it will be depicted here.
“Disclosure Day” (June 12)
The latest film by Steven Spielberg follows a whistleblower (Josh O’Connor) as he attempts to divulge the truth about extraterrestrial life living on Earth. The film will then seemingly follow the world’s reaction to this information and how governments attempt to cover it up. Not much more is known about the plot currently, but initial trailers give the impression that it will be an intense drama that delves into the horror of aliens secretly affecting the world around us.
“Toy Story 5” (June 19)
Woody and the gang return for another movie, where the toys face a new threat in the form of an electronic tablet that demands the attention of their owner, Bonnie. If you like the other “Toy Story” films, I imagine this one will continue to be immensely charming and visually pleasing. I also enjoy it tackling the issue of “iPad kids” and how giving kids tablets can be harmful in the long run.
“The Invite” (June 26)
While initially seeming like another “relationship-troubles” story, this film stands out to me with its stacked cast of Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton. It looks like it will be a funny drama that follows a troubled couple meeting their eccentric neighbors, and the night spiraling into insanity from there.
“The Odyssey” (July 17)
Perhaps the biggest blockbuster of the season, this is director Christopher Nolan’s take on the foundational story of the same name. The film will follow the 10-year journey of the Greek king Odysseus (Matt Damon) as he attempts to return home after fighting in the Trojan War. As of now, I am a little skeptical of the film’s quality, even with strong names behind. A lot of the classic elements of the original story I feel may come across as hokey when expressed through a lot of modern day actors. Nevertheless, I am sure this film will be a great theater experience.
Other films to make note of:
“I Love Boosters” (May 22), “Super Girl” (June 26), “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” (July 31), “I Want Your Sex” (July 31), “The End of Oak Street” (August 14) and “The Dogstars” (August 28)
