Netflix Unveils Ambitious 2026 Slate: First Looks at Enola Holmes 3, Heartwarming Drama, and More

By Entertainment Correspondent Hanoi, January 8, 2026 – Netflix kicked off the new year with a bang on Wednesday, revealing an exciting lineup of films and television projects for 2026. The streaming giant dropped first-look images, release dates, and a captivating “What Next?” teaser video that has fans buzzing about what’s ahead.

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The “What Next?” video, styled with mystical tarot card themes, teases high-profile returns and new ventures, promising viewers they will “question everything” in 2026. It highlights returning favorites alongside fresh stories, setting the tone for a diverse year.

Among the standout film announcements is the third installment in the popular Enola Holmes franchise. Millie Bobby Brown reprises her role as the sharp-witted teenage detective Enola Holmes, sister to the famous Sherlock. The first-look images show Brown in period attire, exuding confidence as Enola steps further into her own legacy, independent of her brother’s shadow.

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One particularly charming photo captures Enola sharing a tender moment with Louis Partridge’s Viscount Tewkesbury, who presents her with a flower—hinting at evolving romance amid higher-stakes mysteries. Directed by Philip Barantini and written by Jack Thorne, Enola Holmes 3 is slated for a summer 2026 release, promising bigger twists and Enola building her own legend.

In a shift to heartfelt drama, Netflix confirmed a May 8, 2026, premiere for Remarkably Bright Creatures, directed by Olivia Newman (known for Where the Crawdads Sing). This adaptation of Shelby Van Pelt’s 2022 bestselling novel stars two-time Oscar winner Sally Field as Tova Sullivan, a widowed aquarium cleaner who forms an extraordinary bond with a giant Pacific octopus named Marcellus.

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Lewis Pullman plays a young man searching for direction who crosses paths with Tova, adding layers of human connection. The story explores themes of grief, friendship, and unexpected wisdom from the intelligent cephalopod. Supporting cast includes Colm Meaney and others, with production recently wrapped.

On the comedy front, Netflix offered a hilarious first look at Little Brother, starring wrestling superstar-turned-actor John Cena alongside comedian Eric André. Cena portrays an uptight, famous real estate agent whose life turns chaotic when André’s wild character enters the picture.

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Directed by Matt Spicer, the film also features Michelle Monaghan, Chris Meloni, Ego Nwodim, Sherry Cola, and Caleb Hearon. While no exact release date was announced, it’s part of the 2026 slate, promising laugh-out-loud mishaps and unlikely brotherhood.

These projects are just a glimpse of Netflix’s broader 2026 ambitions, which also include animated features like Michael B. Jordan-voiced Swapped, Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn, and returns for series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 and Bridgerton Season 4.

The announcements underscore Netflix’s strategy to blend star power, beloved adaptations, and original stories to keep subscribers engaged. With production on many titles already underway, 2026 shapes up to be a blockbuster year for the platform.

As the “What Next?” teaser suggests, Netflix is inviting viewers to discover their streaming future—one filled with mystery, emotion, and comedy.