Historical films offer audiences a captivating journey into significant past events, allowing them to experience different eras and cultures. The year 2026 is set to present a remarkable lineup of historical films that promise to engage and educate viewers. Here are five noteworthy historical films slated for release in 2026:
5. “Final Four”
- Release Date: 2026
- Country: Russia
- Director: Miloš Biković
- Cast: Miloš Biković
“Final Four” delves into the dramatic events surrounding the 1995 basketball match between Russia’s CSKA Moscow and Greece’s Olympiacos Piraeus. In March 1995, during the FIBA European Championship quarterfinals, several CSKA players mysteriously fell ill before the decisive third game in Athens. Despite having only five fit players, CSKA chose to compete, leading to a controversial and historic match. The film explores the challenges faced by the team and the unresolved questions surrounding the incident.
4. “Assassination“
- Release Date: 2026
- Country: USA
- Director: Barry Levinson
- Cast: Al Pacino, Brendan Fraser, Jessica Chastain
In “Assassination,” veteran journalist Dorothy Kilgallen embarks on a relentless investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Doubting the official narrative, she delves deep into the conspiracy, uncovering connections that lead her from government agencies to organized crime syndicates. As she gets closer to the truth, Kilgallen faces increasing danger from those determined to keep the secrets buried.
3. “The Odyssey”
- Release Date: July 17, 2026
- Country: USA
- Director: Christopher Nolan
- Cast: Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron
Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” brings Homer’s epic poem to the big screen, chronicling the arduous journey of Odysseus as he strives to return home following the Trojan War. The film promises a blend of mythic action and profound storytelling, with a stellar cast bringing the ancient tale to life. Shot using advanced IMAX technology, “The Odyssey” aims to provide an immersive cinematic experience.
Source: TheGuardian
2. “Ilya Muromets”
- Release Date: 2026
- Country: Russia
- Director: Andrey Volgin
- Cast: Yegor Pazenko, Andrey Merzlikin, Olga Medynich
“Ilya Muromets” is a historical epic that narrates the life of the legendary Russian bogatyr, Ilya Muromets. Once bound by illness, Ilya experiences a miraculous recovery and rises to become a formidable warrior defending his homeland. The film explores his numerous feats and the folklore surrounding his legacy, offering a deep dive into Slavic mythology and history.
1. “Birth of the Empire”
- Release Date: 2026
- Country: Russia
- Director: Andrey Kravchuk
- Cast: Alexander Gorbatov, Miloš Biković, Yulia Peresild
“Birth of the Empire” focuses on a transformative period in Russian history, spanning from 1698 to 1709 during the reign of Peter the Great. The narrative captures pivotal events from Peter’s return from the Grand Embassy in Europe to the decisive Battle of Poltava. This era marks Russia’s emergence as a formidable empire, with Peter implementing extensive reforms to modernize the nation. The film portrays the challenges and triumphs of this transformative journey.
These films not only promise to entertain but also offer insightful perspectives into significant historical events and figures, making 2026 a noteworthy year for enthusiasts of historical cinema.