2026 has already been a rampaging year for cinematic excellence, with everything from universe-traversing adventure epics like Project Hail Mary to psychologically chilling indie box office hits like Obsession. It shapes as being a monumental year for fantasy in particular, with titles like The Odyssey, Toy Story 5, and even HBO’s small-screen exploits like House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms highlighting the full emotional scope of the genre.

This booming interest in fantasy stories presents a wonderful opportunity for movie lovers to indulge in cinema’s rich history in the genre as well. Whether it’s due to thematic similarities between past classics and cultural hits of this year or celebrating major anniversaries of some of fantasy film’s greatest ever titles, these fantasy masterpieces are all must-see movies in 2026.

‘The Odyssey’ (2026)

Image via Universal Pictures

It could be presumptuous to herald The Odyssey as an instant classic, but its widespread fanfare and universal critical acclaim certainly signal that Sir Christopher Nolan’s latest movie will be discussed for many years to come. Powered by the filmmaker’s trademark commitment to practical filming, Homer’s epic poem is brought to the screen with an unmistakable sense of gravitas that stems from its commanding ensemble cast as much as it does from its stunning visuals and bold adaptive storytelling.

Every step of Odysseus’s (Matt Damon) famous journey is depicted with astute craft and imposing magnitude. The Odyssey has enshrined itself as not only the must-see cinematic event of the year, but as one that demands to be watched on the biggest screen possible. Whether it will come to be viewed as Nolan’s greatest film is yet to be seen, but it is undeniable that it features every bit of the gripping cinematic brilliance and enormous scale that have made him the defining director of the 21st century thus far.

‘Nostos: The Return’ (1989)

Image via Mikado Film

While it isn’t a traditional classic of mainstream cinema, Nostos: The Return is something of a revered gem as far as international arthouse movies go, and there has never been a better time to revisit it than right now. Adapting The Odyssey, it follows Odysseus’s (Luigi Mezzanotte) voyage home after the Trojan War. However, it’s more of a spiritual exploration of themes of memory, the passage of time, and humanity’s complex relationship with nature rather than a narrative-driven story.

Dialogue is minimal, and what dialogue there is is a made-up concoction of ancient Greek, Sanskrit, and Latin; the bold creative decision allows the visual storytelling and cinematic poetry to take center stage. While it understandably won’t appeal to everyone, those who love Nolan’s interpretation of The Odyssey and want to delve deeper into Homer’s world and themes would do well to find Nostos: The Return to explore the story in a completely different fashion.

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’ (2001)

Image via New Line Cinema

Originating from the mind of J. R. R. Tolkien, the stories of Middle-earth have become a defining masterpiece of high fantasy storytelling. 2026 marks a significant year for the franchise in media, as it marks the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The magnificent introduction to the fantasy realm for many, it immerses viewers in the majesty, wonder, and danger of Middle-earth.

The film sees Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) and the fellowship begin their journey to destroy Sauron’s evil ring of power in the fires of Mount Doom. Beautifully handled by Sir Peter Jackson and his team, the Oscar-winning film is viewed by many as being the single greatest fantasy movie of all time, an utterly enchanting masterpiece that has proven ageless with its emotional depth and technical mastery.

‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ (2001)

Image via Warner Bros.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is particularly relevant this year, with fans eagerly awaiting the HBO adaptation of this esteemed fantasy series. However, an incredibly high bar has been set by the original 2001 film, which found a perfect balance between childlike wonder, enrapturing adventure, and detailed worldbuilding to be utterly enchanting from start to finish.

From its humor and charm, ability to marry backstory and character depth with propulsive entertainment, and rich allure that is as universally accessible as it is infectious, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a true masterpiece of the genre. Whether it’s diehard fans of the series returning to it for the umpteenth time, adults returning to a childhood favorite decades later, or even a first-ever viewing, the first Harry Potter movie deserves to be celebrated anew in 2026.

‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ (2006)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Pan’s Labyrinth is the perfect mix of fairy tale awe, dark fantasy horror, and real-world drama. Complimented by director Guillermo del Toro’s trademark Gothic style, it unfolds in Francoist Spain as young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero), along with her heavily pregnant mother, relocates to a remote farmhouse at the behest of her brutish stepfather, a military captain hunting down rebels. Amid the woodland, Ofelia meets a faun who tells her she can return to her rightful place as the Princess of the Underworld if she completes three dangerous tasks.

While it indulges in moments of shocking violence and visceral terror, Pan’s Labyrinth excels. At its heart, it maintains a sense of fairy tale innocence, beautifully complemented by outstanding visuals and a spellbinding score that brings the fantasy allure of the picture to vibrant life. With 2026 signaling 20 years since the movie premiered, now is as good a time as any to rewatch the morbid, mystifying, and majestic masterpiece.

‘Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron’ (2002)

Image via DreamWorks Animation

In the Chinese calendar, 2026 is a remarkably rare year as, for the first time since 1966, it stands as the year of the Fire Horse. While the cult classic animated gem Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron may not feature any stallions ablaze, it is the perfect movie to celebrate this incredibly rare milestone. It captures the spirit of the zodiac, which embodies intense passion, strong independence, fearless courage, and nobility in leadership.

Combining fantasy beats with a rich Western setting, Spirit follows mustang stallion Spirit (Matt Damon) as he roams the wild expanses of the American frontier, forming an unlikely friendship and finding love while becoming an unsung hero of the Old West. The 2002 DreamWorks Animation release is largely a forgotten gem of the form, but it remains a childhood favorite for many who grew up in the era, thanks to its tender balance of historical adventure, kid-friendly fantasy, and animated splendor.

‘Labyrinth’ (1986)

Image via Tri-Star Pictures

Even in such a vast and eclectic field of cult classics produced by the 1980s, Labyrinth is a standout, offbeat gem that mixes wondrous puppetry and dark fantasy edge. Bolstered by David Bowie’s unforgettable performance as the Goblin King, it follows young Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) as she ventures into the villain’s labyrinth, having to successfully navigate the mind-boggling maze in 13 hours to save her baby brother.

Despite its middling box office performance and mixed reviews, Labyrinth has emerged as an infectious fan favorite that has aged gracefully. The practical creature designs and Jim Henson’s impressionable puppetry have become tactile and unique in the modern world of CGI effects that strive for realism. Picture theaters the world over will be hosting re-screenings this year to commemorate the film’s 40-year anniversary, making it a perfect time for fans to revisit the cult gem as well as for intrigued fantasy lovers to experience the movie for the first time.

‘Excalibur’ (1981)

When did fantasy cinema stop looking like this? Embracing a sense of stylized eccentricity, John Boorman blends gleaming chrome armor with the gorgeous landscapes of Ireland and eye-catching lighting techniques to conjure a visual spectacle of irresistible majesty. However, far more than just a stunning exercise in style, Excalibur also thrives as one of the best retellings of Arthurian legend ever put to screen, one that isn’t afraid to stray into the moral foibles of dark fantasy to bring a distinct edge to the familiar story.

Even as its efforts to cram the entirety of Arthurian lore into its 141-minute runtime sometimes lead to clunky and hurried storytelling, Excalibur still absorbs viewers with imposing, dreamlike beauty and indulgent excess. It also features an unforgettable operatic soundtrack, several captivating action sequences, and an ensemble cast of young upstarts who went on to become some of the biggest stars of their generation. Excalibur is a treat of ‘80s fantasy awe that is arguably even more enthralling 45 years on.

‘Faust’ (1926)

Image via MGM

Anniversaries are a big deal in cinema. From minor milestones like 10 or 15 years to more substantial landmarks like half-century celebrations, movie lovers always grasp an opportunity to commend the films of yesteryear when such dates arrive. Few movies have had the opportunity to enjoy a centennial sensation, but F. W. Murnau’s silent fantasy classic is one that can hopefully attract some attention, especially given how it delves into religious and moral themes with piercing depth despite not being afforded the luxury of sound.

Instead of dialogue, the German picture leans heavily on ageless expressionist visuals, innovative special effects, and brilliant physical performances. It depicts a grim tale of corruption, redemption, and deceit following a misguided old alchemist led astray by a demon as he tries to help his plague-riddled village. Derived from traditional folklore tales and a portion of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s 1808 play, Faust endures even 100 years later as a striking fantasy-horror movie that all cinema lovers should seek out.

‘Spirited Away’ (2001)

Image via Studio Ghibli

Another magnificent triumph of animated cinema that is revered by many as being the greatest picture the form has ever seen, Spirited Away is a masterclass in worldbuilding, visual style, and fairy tale storytelling that stands as a magnum opus in Hayao Miyazaki’s illustrious career. Produced by Studio Ghibli, the Japanese film follows a young girl as she finds herself lost in a magical realm and having to work under the thumb of supernatural beings to save her parents, who have been turned into pigs.

Striking a deft balance between sheer otherworldly wonder and softly subdued eeriness, Spirited Away is a transfixing viewing experience, an enrapturing immersion into one of the most magical worlds ever conceived for cinema that is both exciting and wicked. Marking 25 years since the animated family classic was first released, 2026 is a perfect opportunity to return to Miyazaki’s majestic fantasy imagination.

QVC host Rick Domeier is ready to begin a new chapter away from the shopping network.

“At the end of the year, I’ll be going down a very different road — a road I’ve never been on before. It’s called retirement road,” Domeier, 65, exclusively shared with Us on Wednesday, July 29. “I heard it’s fun, and I’m going to be retiring at the end of this year, end of December.”

The longtime host — who joined QVC in October 1994 — officially announced the news live on air during his Rick St. Nick show on Thursday, July 30, as part of QVC’s Christmas in July finale.  

According to Domeier, the decision was made after some long, thoughtful chats with his wife, Amy.

Related: Mary Beth Roe Says Goodbye to QVC After 37 Years With Retirement Show

After 37 years with QVC, Mary Beth Roe hosted her final show on the shopping network. “Everything in the show tonight is something that I chose and it really is special,” Roe, 65, shared with viewers during ​​My Time with Mary Beth — Retirement Celebration on Friday, March 21. “The people that are here tonight […]

“We both agreed that now’s the perfect time for me to kind of cruise down retirement road while most of this engine is still functioning,” he joked. “That’s going to give me the next few months to thank the incredible people I work with backstage, the producers, the directors, the on-air talent and thank the most important person at QVC, which is the QVC customer, for having been with me and accepted me for what will be 32 years.”

In his final months on air, Domeier certainly won’t be slowing down.

While he looks forward to hosting special shows with Valerie Parr Hill, spotlighting food brands like Corky’s and Rastelli and highlighting beautiful jewelry with David Markstein, Jill Bauer and JAI, there’s something new Domeier will be launching.

“They’re giving me a new show. It’s called Rick Hits the Road. We’re going to do some broadcasts from different cities,” he teased. “The first stop is New Orleans. That’s coming up next week. It’s going to be with Jimmy Stovall and Ali Carr and the crew, and we’re going to meet the QVC customer. More stops to come.”

When looking back on his QVC journey, Domeier realized viewers watched him get married, become a father of two sons and work with several celebrities, including the late Joan Rivers.

As he looks toward the future, Domeier is excited to spend quality time with family and friends — without the thought of an alarm clock to kick off a Today’s Special Value.

“My wife and I are gonna spend some time together. … We have a lot of travel ideas,” he teased. “There’s also a wedding coming up with my son that’s coming up in 2027. There’s also an opportunity to reconnect with friends. I also want to stay in touch with the team that I work with now. I’m really into fitness and longevity for obvious reasons. I want to keep that going, so it’s all about exploring and learning and then sharing. I kind of want to document how this goes. I want to find out what retirement is all about.”

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Related: QVC’s Most Memorable Hosts: Where Are They Now?

Advertisement

Some QVC shoppers can’t help but make a connection with some of the network’s products — and hosts. Over the years, viewers have developed close bonds with longtime program hosts who have a gift of selling everything from fashion and beauty products to food and electronics. Every so often, some of the program hosts decide […]

While it’s too soon to announce an official retirement show, QVC viewers know the network loves to honor their talented hosts with special programs before they say goodbye.

If Domeier were a betting man, he predicts there’ll be “moments” to remember.

“There’ll be clips. There’ll be people stopping by,” he predicted. “I do think that there’s going to be a live audience show or two. I want that to happen. I want it to be in person. I want it to be celebratory. I am excited about this next chapter. I want it to be more fun than sad.”

Taylor Swift’s longtime bond with Blake Lively’s family has reportedly become one of the most heartbreaking casualties of the actress’s ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni. 

While the pop superstar was once deeply involved in the lives of Lively’s daughters, insiders now claim she has stepped away from her role as their godmother after deciding there was “no choice” but to distance herself completely. 

The reported decision has left one of Hollywood’s closest friendships seemingly beyond repair.

5

With Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s legal battle pulling high-profile names into the spotlight, Taylor Swift ultimately became one of the biggest celebrities linked to the controversy. 

According to Daily Mail insiders, the fallout has now reportedly ended not only her decade-long friendship with Lively but also her role as godmother to the actress’ daughters James, Inez, and Betty, 6, whom she shares with Ryan Reynolds.

“It was one of the toughest decisions she’s ever had to make,” a source close to the singer claimed, adding, “It was very emotional because she loves the girls. It hurt her heart, but she had no choice given the circumstances.”

According to the insider, Swift made the decision “a few months ago” after discussing the situation with her new husband, Travis Kelce, and concluding it “was the right thing to do.”

“There was never an agreement in writing about her being the girls’ godmother. It was a verbal one between Taylor and Blake,” the source added.

Swift Built A Close Bond With Lively’s Family

5

Although the arrangement was reportedly informal, Taylor Swift was said to have embraced the role completely. 

Over the years, she frequently spent time with Lively, Reynolds, and their children, hosting the family at her Rhode Island home, celebrating Halloween together, and incorporating the girls into her music.

She famously featured James’ baby voice at the beginning of “Gorgeous” and later even used the names James, Inez, and Betty as characters across songs from her 2020 album “Folklore.”

Then in July 2024, the Grammy Award winner publicly acknowledged the relationship promoting Reynolds’ “Deadpool & Wolverine.”

“Shout out to Wade Wilson, aka my godkids’ sperm donor!” she joked, referencing Reynolds’ Marvel character.

Reynolds later confirmed the title during an interview with Deadline, saying, “I’m going to need that on my gravestone, actually. She is the godparent to my daughters. That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that.”

Taylor Swift Even Surprised The Girls By Including Them In Her Music

5

Swift’s relationship with the children extended well beyond public appearances. Reynolds previously revealed that even the girls had no idea their names would appear on “Folklore” until the album was released.

“We surprised them with it,” the actor said during a SiriusXM “Town Hall” interview in 2021, further noting, “They didn’t know. They had no idea.”

While performing in Madrid during the Eras Tour in May 2024, Swift also acknowledged the sisters in front of thousands of fans.

“I have to say that on Folklore, some of my favorite characters are named James, Inez and Betty,” she said, as the three girls reportedly celebrated from premium seats alongside their mother.

According to insiders, however, moments like those are unlikely to continue following the reported breakdown of Swift’s friendship with Lively.

Swift Reportedly Hopes To Reconnect With The Children Someday

5

Sources say the reported decision continues to weigh heavily on Taylor Swift, even as she enjoys a new chapter in her personal life following her marriage to Travis Kelce.

“Taylor’s having the time of her life now that she is married, her family is great, her career is great and she’s looking forward to the future,” another insider shared, adding, “The only thing that is causing troubles in her life is Blake’s kids and not having the relationship she would like to have with them as their godmother.”

The source also noted that the 36-year-old believes maintaining a close relationship with the children while having virtually no relationship with their parents would place them in an unfair position.

According to them, “Taylor doesn’t believe it’s fair to anyone involved – especially the kids – to put them in the middle of such a strained situation. She believes stepping away is the most respectful path forward for all parties.”

Despite the painful decision, another source claimed Swift still hopes the relationship can one day be repaired. 

“She hopes that once the children are adults, and 18 and able to make their own decisions, they’ll be free to reconnect if they choose,” the source explained.

Source Suggests Blake Lively Knows More About Taylor Swift Than The Public Realizes

5

While the future of Swift and Lively’s friendship remains uncertain, recent insider claims suggest there’s still plenty the public doesn’t know about their once-close relationship.

According to a new insider, one reason the reported fallout attracted so much attention was because the “Gossip Girl” actress allegedly possessed deeply personal knowledge about Swift that had never been shared publicly. 

Speaking to the Daily Mail, the source claimed, “Blake knows plenty about Taylor that has never become public,” while insisting there is no expectation that the actress would reveal those details. 

The insider further alleged that Swift had no concerns about Lively speaking out, claiming she had “complete faith” that any private conversations would remain confidential despite their reported estrangement.

A California woman was reportedly shot dead in front of a police station on Saturday, July 4. Furthermore, her son is accused of the crime.

RELATED: Prayers Up! 75-Year-Old Georgia Woman Shot While Distributing Food To Atlanta Community

California Man, Emmanuel Wesley, Accused Of Shooting Mother In Front Of Police Station

Emmanuel Wesley is accused of shooting his mother, Theresa Jones, in front of a police station on the Fourth of July. According to KTLA, the 61-year-old was shot as she sat behind the wheel of her car at approximately 2:46 p.m. in front of the Fullerton Police Department.

Surveillance video reportedly captured Emmanuel Wesley getting out of the backseat after Jones slumped over. The FPD claims Wesley moved his mother over to the passenger seat before getting in the car and driving off.

Furthermore, Jones was reported missing on July 7. This, reportedly, after she didn’t pick up her grandchild or answer her phone.

Jones’ Body Was Found One Week Later

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office revealed that the 61-year-old’s body was found in a church parking lot on Saturday, July 11.

Furthermore, she’d been shot twice in the back, and the FPD arrested her son for felony murder. In addition, he was charged with felony enhancement, alleging the discharge of a firearm causing great bodily injury or death.

Wesley was denied bail and is currently an inmate at the Orange County Jail. The 23-year-old pleaded not guilty.

Orange County District Attorney Accused Wesley Of “Depravity”

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer subsequently gave a statement, noting the horrifying details of the alleged matricide.

“The death of any human being is a tragedy,” said Spitzer. “For someone to kill their own mother is another level of depravity. We will do everything we can to pursue justice for Ms. Jones and everyone who loved her.”

A GoFundMe was set up by her loved ones, who also shared a statement.

“Tragically, Theresa was taken from us far too soon on the Fourth of July in an unimaginable act of violence,” it read in part. “After she missed picking up her beloved grandchild, an agonizing week-long search led to her discovery on July 11. The shock of her loss has left a profound, empty space in the hearts of everyone who loved her.”

RELATED: Bond Set For Memphis Mom Accused Of Fatally Shooting Man Found Under Her Teen Daughter’s Bed

Polos have been having a moment as of late. Blame it on the return of preppy, 90s style or the rise of quiet luxury fashion, but this classic collared staple is suddenly everywhere again; and no one is rocking the look better than Jennifer Garner.

The 54-year-old actress was recently seen out and about in New York City rocking a pricey Prada polo, and while Prada isn’t exactly in our shopping budget, we did find a luxe lookalike on Amazon from a top-rated brand. Even better: it’s on major sale.

Get the Katie Kasin Short-Sleeve V-Neck Polo for $23 (originally $30) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to changes.

This Katie Kasin v-neck polo has the same classic navy and white base and refined, polished presentation as Garner’s designer version, but instead of paying thousands, you can snag the incredible lookalike for less than $25. And while the Prada version has a heavier sweater base, this chic polo comes with a breathable-but-durable material that’s perfect for summer outings, long days in the office and layering under blazers and cardigans.

Related: Jennifer Garner’s Expensive-Looking Sundress Style Screams ‘Cali Rich Girl’

Advertisement

If you’re curious what Los Angeles moms are wearing lately, take a page from Jennifer Garner who wore the ultimate rich-girl sundress style. It should cost triple digits (at least), but we found her dreamy floral look on sale for only $34. Run! Last week, Garner breezed into a SoCal restaurant wearing a billowy maxi sundress, […]

Unlike other affordable polos that hug in weird places, lose their color or shape after washing or look like sad designer dupes, this under-$25 top delivers a surprisingly elevated finish that’s suited for work, weekends and beyond. Garner paired her quiet-luxury top with cropped, dark-wash jeans, brown stilettos and oversized sunnies, but we’re already imagining how well this slightly stretchy polo would look with our tailored trousers, relaxed denim, preppy skirts, white sneakers and other quiet-luxury essentials.

The Katie Kasin polo is also a huge hit with shoppers. In fact, reviewers praise its “polished, professional look” and say it “strikes the right balance between structured and comfortable.” Consider Us sold.

“The fit is very flattering without being too tight, and the lightweight knit fabric is comfortable and breathable,” one verified shopper said. “The V-neck and collared design give it a polished, classic look that works well for both casual wear and the office.”

“A great addition to my summer work wardrobe,” another 5-star reviewer said. “Well made, nice thin knit to keep me cool when the temps spike, but still keeps me looking polished and professional in meetings. Washes really well and has a flattering fit.”

While we would love a pricey Prada polo, the next best thing is snagging a lookalike that delivers the same quiet‑luxury vibe for a fraction of the price. Grab this Amazon find while it’s still majorly on sale.

Get the Katie Kasin Short-Sleeve V-Neck Polo for $23 (originally $30) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to changes.

Not what you’re looking for? Scope out more V-neck polos here and don’t forget to check out Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds. 

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Advertisement

Related: Jennifer Garner Puts a Regal Spin on the Classic Little Black Dress

Jennifer Garner has a way of making even the simplest outfit feel elevated, and her latest look proves you don’t need a designer price tag to get there. The actress stepped out in a little black dress that felt equal parts timeless and practical — and get this: You can recreate the same regal look […]