Why wait until the end of the year to discover the best films when 2026 has already delivered some cinematic gems? Here’s the shocking truth: some of this year’s most acclaimed movies are so unique, they’ll challenge everything you thought you knew about storytelling. The Washington Post’s critics—Travis M. Andrews, Michael Andor Brodeur, Ty Burr, Thomas Floyd, Monica Hesse, Philip Kennicott, Chris Klimek, Naveen Kumar, Michael O’Sullivan, Janice Page, Sonia Rao, and Jada Yuan—have already awarded 3.5 stars or more to several standout films. Bookmark this list, because we’ll keep updating it throughout the year with the movies that have left us in awe. (And yes, every film reviewed by The Post in 2026 is eligible for inclusion.)
But here’s where it gets controversial... The French Oscar nominee for Best Animated Feature, co-produced by Natalie Portman, is a stark departure from the pop-culture-driven cartoons churned out by Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks. No catchy K-pop songs, no dated references, no scatological humor—just the raw, heartfelt earnestness of director Ugo Bienvenu’s elegiac tale, paired with stunning 2D animation. It’s a breath of fresh air in a world of irony and sarcasm. (PG, 89 minutes) — Chris Klimek
Where to watch: In theaters
And this is the part most people miss... When you hear the name Magellan, you might expect a swashbuckling adventure, but Filipino director Lav Diaz’s latest masterpiece is anything but. This sprawling historical epic doubles as a subversive critique of global politics and a visually stunning meditation on violence, grief, and power. It’s a film that demands your attention—and your patience, clocking in at 160 minutes. (Unrated) — Michael Andor Brodeur
Where to watch: Not yet available for streaming
Now, let’s talk about The Testament of Ann Lee. In 1774, a group of Quakers led by an illiterate woman named Ann Lee (played by Amanda Seyfried) sailed to America, preaching celibacy, gender equality, and a worship style defined by shaking during prayer. Director Mona Fastvold turns this bizarre yet fascinating history into a luminous musical—yes, a musical—that feels both deeply strange and deeply human. It’s a bold choice, but one that pays off spectacularly. (R, 137 minutes) — Monica Hesse
Where to watch: In theaters
Here’s a twist you won’t see coming... 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is the fourth installment in the series started by Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later, but director Nia DaCosta refuses to play it safe. Instead of rehashing old formulas, she delivers a film that’s funnier, more stylish, and just as emotionally resonant as its predecessors. Ralph Fiennes returns with a performance so layered, it’ll leave you breathless. (R, 109 minutes) — Sonia Rao
Where to watch: In theaters
Park Chan-wook, the South Korean master of dark delights, is back with No Other Choice. Think of him as a twisted Hitchcock with a penchant for social commentary. Adapting Donald E. Westlake’s 1997 novel The Ax, Chan-wook crafts a blood-soaked thriller that’s as entertaining as it is unsettling. It’s a film that draws you in—and leaves you reeling. (R, 139 minutes) — Ty Burr
Where to watch: In theaters
Finally, let’s talk about a film that’ll make you question the cruelty of adolescence. In this psychological horror debut from director Charlie Polinger, a new kid at water polo camp is warned to avoid Eli, a boy ostracized for his mysterious rashes. While the premise isn’t new, Polinger’s vivid portrayal of boyhood bullying feels fresh and hauntingly relatable. (R, 95 minutes) — S.R.
Where to watch: Not yet available for streaming
Now, here’s the question: Which of these films do you think will stand the test of time? And more importantly, which one challenges your own views on what cinema should be? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
