The 2026 Oscars are fast approaching, and for film enthusiasts, that means a chance to immerse themselves in the year’s most celebrated cinema. But what if life got in the way, and some of these cinematic achievements slipped through the cracks? Don't worry, the journey to catch up is now within reach.
Let's begin withBugonia, the latest collaboration between visionary filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and the captivating Emma Stone. Premiering to acclaim at the Venice Film Festival, this darkly comedic thriller unfolds a bizarre premise: a conspiracy theorist kidnaps a powerful CEO, convinced she’s an alien intent on Earth’s destruction. Jesse Plemons delivers an outstanding performance in this wildly inventive film, which garnered an 88% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently unavailable on streaming platforms,Bugoniacan still be experienced by renting or purchasing it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Sky Store. It’s a film that lingers in the mind, a testament to Lanthimos’s unique vision and Stone’s undeniable talent.
Next, we turn to Guillermo del Toro’sFrankenstein, a gothic masterpiece adapted from Mary Shelley’s iconic novel. Starring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi, this visually stunning film captivated audiences with its dark atmosphere and powerful performances. Despite a limited theatrical release, it secured an impressive nine Oscar nominations, including best picture.
Del Toro’s long-held dream project is now readily available, streaming exclusively on Netflix and also showing in select cinemas. Prepare to be immersed in a world of haunting beauty and profound questions about creation and humanity.
Shifting gears,F1delivers high-octane thrills and a surprising entry into the best picture conversation. This slickly produced blockbuster, starring Brad Pitt, follows a retired racing legend as he mentors a promising rookie. Backed by a substantial budget and unprecedented access to the world of Formula 1 racing, the film resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Currently streaming on Apple TV and available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Sky Store,F1offers a captivating glimpse into the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsport. It’s also screening again in select cinemas.
Prepare for an emotional journey withHamnet, a film that moved audiences to tears and earned Jessie Buckley a well-deserved Best Actress award. This poignant story explores the grief and inspiration behind Shakespeare’sHamlet, focusing on the loss of his son, Hamnet. Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, the film is a beautifully crafted exploration of love, loss, and the power of art.
Still showing in select UK and Irish cinemas,Hamnetis also available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, Sky Store, and Apple TV.
For a dose of electrifying energy, look no further thanMarty Supreme. Josh Safdie’s film, starring Timothée Chalamet, has been delighting audiences with its imaginative storytelling and captivating performances. The film follows an ambitious ping-pong player chasing his world champion dreams. Despite missing out on its nine Oscar nominations, it boasts a remarkable 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently showing in select UK and Irish cinemas,Marty Supremeis also available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, Rakuten TV, and Apple TV.
Paul Thomas Anderson’sOne Battle After Anotheremerged as a critical darling, earning widespread acclaim and numerous awards. Inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s novel, the film follows an ex-revolutionary forced back into his past. With stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio Del Toro, this is a film that demands attention.
Available to rent or buy on Rakuten TV, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Store, and screening again in select cinemas,One Battle After Anotheris a cinematic experience not to be missed.
From the Cannes Film Festival comesThe Secret Agent, a mischievous political thriller set against the charged atmosphere of 1970s Brazil. Starring Wagner Moura, this gripping film explores themes of identity, betrayal, and survival. It garnered significant recognition, including a Best Actor win for Moura at the Golden Globes.
Currently showing in UK and Irish cinemas,The Secret Agentoffers a thrilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Sentimental Value, a Norwegian film that captivated audiences with its intimate portrayal of sisterhood and family, earned a remarkable 19-minute standing ovation at Cannes. Praised for its nuanced performances and emotional depth, this film is a quiet triumph. Starring Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning, it’s a story that will resonate long after the credits roll.
Streaming now on Mubi (and via Amazon Prime Video), and still showing in select cinemas,Sentimental Valueis a must-see for those seeking a deeply moving cinematic experience.
Finally,Sinners, a groundbreaking horror film starring and directed by Michael B. Jordan, has redefined the genre. This thrilling story follows twins in 1930s Mississippi as they confront a dark evil. A box office success and critical favorite,Sinnersis a testament to the power of Black storytelling in cinema.
Available on demand on Sky Cinema and NOW TV Cinema, and for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Rakuten TV, and screening again in select cinemas,Sinnersis a cinematic experience that will leave you breathless.
And lastly,Train Dreams, a Netflix production, offers a beautifully rendered portrait of a logger and railroad worker in the early 20th century. Based on Denis Johnson’s novella and starring Joel Edgerton, this film is a quiet masterpiece of atmosphere and emotion.
Streaming exclusively on Netflix and also screening again in select cinemas,Train Dreamsis a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
