4 of the Best Movies of 2026 So Far and Where to Watch Them

2026 has already delivered a run of standout films, and audiences are only halfway through the year. Here are four movies worth catching before summer ends.

Movie fanatics and critics alike have been treated to an impressive slate of releases so far this year. With the year only half over, there's still plenty of cinematic gold to look forward to — and even more to catch up on right now.

Here are four of the best 2026 movies for your viewing pleasure.

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'Obsession'

Directed by Curry Barker, "Obsession" follows Bear, a lovestruck man desperate to win the affection of his crush, Nikki. Too nervous to approach her directly, he turns to an unconventional solution instead: the One Wish Willow.

Bear gets exactly what he wished for — but soon discovers that his newfound romance comes with a dark, sinister price. Made on a modest budget of under $1 million, "Obsession" has since grossed more than $200 million at the box office, a staggering return that's turned it into one of the year's biggest surprise hits.

The gripping film tackles themes of codependent relationships, the toxic narcissism of the manosphere, and the increasingly dehumanizing dangers of AI. It built a devoted fanbase upon release and remains a hot topic of conversation to this day.

"Obsession" is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

'Is God Is'

Marking the directorial debut of acclaimed playwright Aleshea Harris, "Is God Is" follows twin sisters Racine and Anaia as they embark on a harrowing quest for revenge after enduring physical and psychological abuse at the hands of their father during childhood.

The film hit screens in May with minimal marketing, and Amazon MGM Studios drew criticism for what many called a disappointingly sparse promotional push — especially given the film's stacked cast.

Rising stars Kara Young and Mallori Johnson lead the film, backed by a strong supporting lineup that includes Sterling K. Brown, Vivica A. Fox, and Janelle Monáe. Despite the quiet rollout, the film earned glowing reviews from critics.

"Is God Is" is available to watch on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

'Project Hail Mary'

Ryan Gosling returns to the big screen in what's quickly shaping up to be a fan favorite: the adventure epic "Project Hail Mary." Adapted from Andy Weir's novel of the same name, the film stars Gosling as science teacher Ryland Grace, who wakes up alone in space, light-years from Earth, with no memory of how he got there.

As his memory gradually resurfaces, he learns he was part of a three-person crew dispatched to the far reaches of the galaxy to investigate a mysterious substance slowly killing the sun. He soon realizes he's humanity's last hope against total annihilation — and that an unlikely friendship may hold the key to saving everyone.

Both longtime fans of the novel and newcomers to the story have been pleasantly surprised by the film's genuine emotional depth.

"Project Hail Mary" begins streaming on Amazon Prime Video on July 3, following its theatrical run.

'The Christophers'

The story follows Lori Butler, played by Michaela Coel, a young artist hired to secretly complete a series of unfinished paintings by controversial artist Julian (Ian McKellen) — and pass the work off under his name.

The scheme is orchestrated by Julian's children, who hope to cash in on an inheritance once the aging painter passes away. The unlikely pairing of Coel and McKellen, with their prickly, ever-shifting dynamic, makes for a viewing experience that's equal parts funny and touching.

"The Christophers" is available to watch on Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home, or Apple TV.