Hello, my beautiful readers. I hope you all have fun and safe plans for New Year's. I know I won't, but I'll enjoy getting the time to finally sleep in for a while.
After releasing my Worst Films of 2025 list, I realized I wanted to end the year on a more upbeat note. Then I realized something: I don't think I've ever listed things I was most looking forward to in the New Year. So, that is precisely what I'll do now.
This is TheNorm's Most Anticipated Movies ot 2026
#5
The Legend of Aang
I mentioned once or twice on the blog that I am a HUGE fan of Avatar: The Last Airbender. In fact, I remember dedicating an entire entry to what makes it so special. While the spin-off sequel series, The Legend of Korra, is also great in its own right, and the less said about the live-action Netflix series, the better, I have been anticipating this new project from the creators for a long time.
Apparently, it was initially slated for release this year but was delayed for reasons I don't recall. But, if the Cinema Gods have anything to say about it, we may be fortunate enough to finally have a new film about our beloved band of misfits in the New Year. Let's just hope the Sokka still has his signature sense of humor 😊.
#4
The Odyssey
Christopher Nolan remains a fascinating figure in the world of modern Cinema. While his approach to filmmaking and storytelling is undeniably incredible, there are times when it rubs me the wrong way. Still, Nolan is one of the few figures in the Hollywood system who has the clout and talent to deliver what many of us Cinema enthusiasts prefer (practical effects, real exotic locations, etc.), and this looks as if it's going to deliver the goods once again.
Rumor has it that they built a full-scale Cyclops for the film! 🤩
#3
Masters of the Universe
I have come to fear most modern adaptations of my childhood entertainment, as many of them either try too hard to come off as more "mature" to appeal to "modern audiences," *cough* Michael Bay's Transformers *cough*, or they wind up made by people who don't understand or appreciate the silliness of it all. While it is true that many of the movies and cartoon shows people of my generation grew up watching were primarily intended to sell us toys, there was still something emotionally resonating with the stories and characters presented that spoke to us in some way.
Now that we're getting a brand new film adaptation of one of my favorite childhood cartoon shows, made by some of the most prominent and talented creative minds from LAIKA Studios (Travis Knight and Chris Butler, late of Paranorman and Bumblebee), and featuring costumes and production design ripped straight out of the original cartoon rather than being reimagined, how can I not be excited?
There's still not enough known about the movie to be entirely excited, but there is enough to have me curious and hopeful. May the power of Greyskull be with this one!
#2
Supergirl
The introduction to this iteration of Supergirl, as revealed at the end of Superman, left me curious and worried at the same time. Typically, I'm not a fan of converting some characters into irresponsible jerks in some way, because, at least most of the time, the storytellers forget to instill some level of humanity and tangibility to the character, resulting in an unlikable jackass who drags the plot along, leaving audiences frustrated at a lack of reason to care.
However, with all the DC Movies scripts moving forward requiring the approval of James Gunn himself, and this upcoming movie under the direction of Craig Gillespie, late of the Fright Night remake and Lars and the Real Girl, I am confident this will likely become an exception that proves the rule. I trust the storytellers involved to deliver something with heart and the right amount of mischief for a fun, emotionally resonant experience. Plus, let's face it, Supergirl has needed a brand new movie since 1984!
#1
Disclosure Day
Steven Spielberg and Aliens; need I say more?
The Hollywood legend has had a long and proud history of making movies about UFOs, Alien life, and first-contact concepts, with E.T. being the arguable landmark of his relationship with the genre. The use of animals in this upcoming movie has me especially excited. I enjoy movies that make use of animal symbolism and presence in some way. I wrote two whole books about a girl and her Fox friend (shameless plug) and am currently writing the third.
There is no doubt in my mind that this is likely to be an experience that we may have seen before, but with a fresh perspective that hasn't been explored yet. I am counting the days!
There you have it. Please let me know in the comments below which movies you're most excited for. I wish you all a safe New Year's celebration, and I'll see you all in 2026.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
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