Entertainment Weekly has unveiled a series of official photos as part of its 2026 film preview guide, offering a tantalizing glimpse into some of the most anticipated movies of the coming year. Among the highlights are first looks at “The Death of Robin Hood,” “The Odyssey,” and “Mortal Kombat II,” each bringing its own unique flair to the cinematic landscape.
“The Death of Robin Hood”: A Dark Twist on a Classic Legend
One of the standout features in the preview is A24’s “The Death of Robin Hood,” directed by Michael Sarnoski, known for his work on “Pig” and “A Quiet Place: Day One.” The film stars Hugh Jackman, Jodie Comer, and Bill Skarsgård and was filmed in Northern Ireland earlier this year. It promises to offer a gritty reimagining of the legendary outlaw’s final days.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Sarnoski delves into the film’s darker portrayal of Robin Hood, moving away from the traditional heroic narrative. “He was this murderous outlaw who did a lot of terrible things, and was kind of monstrous,” Sarnoski explains.
“But he’s lived long enough to see this folklore get created about him. He’s figuring out how he feels about that, about being portrayed as a hero when he knows what he really was.”
This approach marks a significant departure from the swashbuckling hero often depicted in popular culture, potentially offering audiences a more nuanced and morally complex character study.
“The Odyssey”: A Star-Studded Epic
Meanwhile, Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” promises to bring the grandeur of ancient Greek mythology to the big screen. New photos released show Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus, Robert Pattinson as Antinous, and Himesh Patel as Eurylochus. The film is expected to be a visual spectacle, combining Nolan’s trademark storytelling with the epic scale of Homer’s classic tale.
Nolan’s adaptation is anticipated to explore themes of perseverance and the human condition, drawing parallels to his previous works that often delve into the complexities of time and existence. The casting of Damon and Hathaway, both of whom have collaborated with Nolan in the past, suggests a strong ensemble performance that could bring fresh depth to these iconic characters.
“Mortal Kombat II”: Action-Packed and Inspired by Jackie Chan
Finally, the preview offers a sneak peek at “Mortal Kombat II,” with director Simon McQuoid hinting at a film that draws inspiration from the legendary Jackie Chan. New images highlight Karl Urban as Johnny Cage, who brings a unique blend of martial arts and comedic flair to the role.
McQuoid indicates that Cage’s fighting style will incorporate not just fast-paced martial arts but also the use of environmental objects and lighthearted antics, reminiscent of Chan’s iconic action sequences. This approach could add a new layer of entertainment to the franchise, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers.
The announcement of these films comes as the industry continues to recover from the disruptions caused by the global pandemic, with studios eager to captivate audiences with fresh and innovative storytelling. As these films prepare for their 2026 releases, they promise to offer a diverse array of narratives and styles, each contributing to the rich tapestry of modern cinema.
As the release dates draw nearer, audiences can expect more insights and promotional material to emerge, building anticipation for what could be a landmark year in film.
