Summer '26 Films I Will Leave My House For

During this time when I am re-examining my paths forward, I'm recalling the hobbies that led to me study popular culture. Going to the movies was a weekly ritual in the 90s and 2000s. I felt more compelled to watch the latest films on screen back then than I do now, even if they're available at home. The films I saw growing through the 90s and 2000s are comfort films - staples in my repertoire. The line-up for 2026 is bringing back franchises from my youth once again. Here's the films I want to see this spring and summer - share with me which ones you'll go see.

In between shifts at King's Buffet, the Chinese restaurant I worked at one year, I would go to Jessica's apartment for rest, food and to play Super Mario Galaxy. Ever the voyeur, she would watch me play as we scarfed down plates of Shanghai noodles and vegetables. 

The first movie was good and I am excited to see the expansion. 

Sequels to cherished films have not panned out well over the years. I am hopeful that the return of Miranda, Andie, Emily and Nigel lives up to the first film. If not, pursed lips will be abound and it could be the end of Runway as we know it.

How could anyone resist talking sheep solving a murder of their beloved caretaker? It's the lighthearted option for Mother's Day weekend - or Mortal Kombat 2. 

A film about a group who robs a fashion designer's shops and resells her clothes. I loved Keke Palmer in One of Those Days and anything with Demi Moore is gold. 

 What's my favourite scary movie? Most definitely the first when Brenda is in the movie theatre. But with lots of reprised roles and returning cast members, like Cheri O'Teri's Gail Hailstorm, Dave Sheridan's Doofy and Chris Elliott's Hanson, I anticipate old-school feels from the early days of the franchise.

RuPaul's recent filmography has not been so fierce, but Stop! That! Train! looks like a camp old time. With the exception of Ginger Minj, the cast list looks incredible. Let's hope this film does not take itself too seriously - the teaser trailer looks like a good, wild ride. 

You've got a friend in me if you want to continue our childhood with Toy Story 5. Maybe I should save this for my Godson, but I need to pay attention to what Buzz, Woody and Jessie are up to now. Toy Story is an example of how a franchise can thrive without compromising its style and message. Just please, let's not bring theatres to a collective gay gasp at the prospect of inevitable destruction *cough Toy Story 3 cough*.

Two couples meet for dinner when innocuous talks turn into questionable glances and FOMO kicking in.

"A fiercely energized chamber dramedy, The Invite revitalizes the classic, largely bygone cinema of marital strife. Olivia Wilde’s scenes from a marriage are suitably raw and revealing, but also compassionate, deeply human, and incredibly funny."  - Sundance Film Festival Website.

I doubt this will get down to Niagara. So anyone in Toronto who wants to see this, you buy the tickets, I'll buy the snacks.

Another Sundance film, Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass follows the story of Gail, a midwestern bride-to-be, who embarks on a journey to sleep with her celebrity sex pass after her fiancee cashes his in. The cast line-up is a hilarious group and the director, David Wain, brings his own brand of humour that is time-tested.

Again, another Toronto trip is inevitable for this film. Santa, this is why I wanted a film house for Christmas!

So who's in for any of these films? Are there any movies coming out between now and August that you think I should add to my list? Comment below!