Why these premieres matter now
Spring–summer 2026 will bring several major releases that perform three functions at once: as mass entertainment — they bring audiences together; as an industrial impulse — they feed the local film market; and as a cultural signal — they show that the global industry is returning to large-scale projects after a pause. For Ukraine this also means jobs in dubbing, programming for families and the chance to sustain theatrical infrastructure.
“These worldwide releases are not just blockbusters. They set the season’s pace, influence box office expectations, and provide a platform for the local industry — from translation to marketing.”
— Oleksandr Koval, film critic and market analyst
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie — a fairy tale in space aimed at family audiences
Mario heads into space to collect Power Stars and save Princess Peach. The film adapts the well-known game franchise into a large-scale adventure story with an emphasis on visual effects and musical elements.
• Genre: adventure, sci‑fi; • Directors: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic; • Cast (voice): Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor‑Joy; • In Ukrainian release from: April 2, 2026.
Ready or Not 2: Here I Come — a horror that continues a genre success and refined black comedy
The sequel to the survival-game saga raises the stakes: the heroine again faces family rituals of violence, but this time the playing field expands to political ambitions and internal intrigues.
• Genre: horror, comedy; • Directors: Matt Bettinelli‑Olpin, Tyler Gillett; • Cast: Samara Weaving, Katherine Newton; • In Ukrainian release from: April 9, 2026.
Mortal Kombat II — action‑fantasy that keeps the fanbase engaged
The second major blockbuster based on the famous game franchise gathers beloved champions for the decisive battle against Shao Kahn. For the industry, it’s another example of rebooting franchises with global commercial potential.
• Genre: action, fantasy; • Director: Simon McQuoid; • Cast: Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee; • In Ukrainian release from: May 7, 2026.
The Mandalorian & Grogu — a universe continuation shaping streaming and cinema trends
A new story with Din Djarin and Grogu combines adventure with the political consequences of the Empire’s fall. For Star Wars fans, it’s not only a plot continuation but another focal point for merchandise and streaming traffic.
• Genre: sci‑fi, adventure; • Director: Jon Favreau; • Cast: Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver; • In Ukrainian release from: May 21, 2026.
Moana (Vaiana) — animation as a source of strength for young audiences
A classic animated voyage about finding oneself and restoring community — a story that works for family audiences and gets a strong response at the box office and on family platforms.
• Genre: adventure, comedy; • Director: Thomas Kail; • Cast (voice): Ketrin Lagaya, Dwayne Johnson; • In Ukrainian release from: July 9, 2026.
What this means for Ukraine
In short: releases of this scale support the chain — cinemas, distribution, dubbing studios, marketing. For Ukrainian audiences this is a chance to preserve offline film culture and ensure viewer choice: family and genre projects that help restore normal life amid challenges. Analysts, including Box Office Pro and The Hollywood Reporter, note that strong franchises set the tone for the season — so attention to theatrical release and local promotion matters.
Conclusion
When planning trips to the cinema in 2026, pay attention not only to plot promises but also to how these premieres support the local market. By buying a ticket and supporting Ukrainian dubbing and theatrical distribution — we are not just watching a film, we are investing in the cultural infrastructure that works today and after the war. Now it’s the viewer’s turn: the choice on the ticket matters.
