Film and television productions are gearing up to make a significant impact in the UK and Ireland throughout 2026. A diverse range of projects, including feature films and high-end series, are set to begin shooting across various locations, showcasing the region’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
Simon Stone is set to direct a film featuring Scottish actor Ian Charleson, produced by Lucky Red and Magnolia May. This project is currently in production and is expected to continue into early 2026. Meanwhile, Sam Mendes is helming a unique take on the legendary The Beatles, with four films narrated from the perspective of each band member. The project is being produced by Neal Street Productions and is filming in locations such as London and Liverpool.
In the comedy genre, a thriller about modern dating is in the works, starring Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, and Barry Keoghan, with Jonathan Schey directing for Parkville Pictures and Film4. Filming is scheduled to take place from November through early 2026 in London. Another notable comedy thriller is being produced by Amazon, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal and Leila George, which will explore a day in the life of two siblings following the death of their estranged father.
Thrillers and Sci-Fi Projects Shine
A sci-fi survival thriller directed by Jordan Downey is also set to shoot in Belfast, featuring Frank Grillo and Maria Bakalova. This exciting project looks to capture a futuristic narrative that promises to engage viewers. In addition, a film focusing on a young mathematician entering a prestigious competition is being produced by Niki Byrne and is expected to begin filming in London in October.
The upcoming holiday season will see the production of a Christmas comedy, which revolves around a theatrical production at a retirement home, featuring Celia Imrie and Richard E. Grant. Set to begin filming in October, this project is produced by SUMS Film & Media and Shush Films.
Gothic horror enthusiasts can look forward to a film directed by Robert Eggers, which takes place in 13th-century England, starring Lily-Rose Depp and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. This production will begin filming in Devon and is expected to draw significant interest due to Eggers’ previous successes in the genre.
Major Series and Collaborations on the Rise
Several high-profile television series are also set to commence filming in the coming months. The adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s sixth novel in the Narnia series, helmed by Greta Gerwig, is currently in production under the auspices of Netflix and will feature Emma Mackey and Daniel Craig.
In the realm of superhero narratives, a series focusing on five ordinary Black individuals with extraordinary powers is being produced by New Wave Energy and is set to film in London through October.
The UK’s vibrant television scene will also see the return of several popular series. The comedy about Richmond Football Club, featuring Jason Sudeikis, will be back for its fourth series, while a detective series set in London promises to keep audiences engaged with its thrilling narrative.
With such a diverse lineup of films and series, the UK and Ireland are poised to be significant players in the global film and television industry in 2026. As these productions begin to take shape, they will continue to attract attention both domestically and internationally, showcasing the talent and creativity that these regions have to offer.
