Paramount Pictures opened its CinemaCon 2026 presentation with a powerful tribute to theatrical storytelling, celebrating decades of filmmaking while setting the stage for an ambitious future.
Table Of Content
The sizzle reel, directed by Jon M. Chu and narrated by Tom Cruise, honored the studio’s legacy before culminating in a striking visual of Cruise atop the iconic Paramount water tower.
The presentation leaned into interactive audience engagement, highlighting a diverse slate of upcoming films and major talent appearances, while also hinting at the potential impact of a merger with Warner Bros, a development that could significantly reshape the studio landscape. David Ellison made a surprise appearance at CinemaCon on Thursday, as he reassured exhibitors that they have nothing to worry about—whether it’s the evolving leadership at Paramount or his potential acquisition of Warner Bros.
‘I want to look every single one of you in the eye and promise that once we combine with Warner Bros., we will produce a minimum of 30 films a year,’ he said. ‘Every film will receive a theatrical release with at least a 45-day window, followed by SVOD at 90 days.’”
Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft – The Tour (Live in 3D)
Billie Eilish appeared alongside director James Cameron to present the immersive concert experience, arriving in theaters May 8, 2026.
Scary Movie
Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans reunite with Anna Faris for a revival of the iconic parody franchise, set for release on June 5, 2026.
During the panel, Wayans made it clear the new film will not hold back, joking that it is designed to “offend everyone.” The comment signaled a return to the franchise’s unapologetically edgy humor and boundary-pushing tone that defined the original films.
Jackass: Best and Last
Johnny Knoxville returns for what is being positioned as the franchise’s final installment, opening June 26, 2026.
Street Fighter
A large ensemble cast—including Noah Centineo, Callina Liang, Eric André, Andrew Koji, Curtis Jackson, and Roman Reigns—was revealed for the adaptation directed by Kitao Sakurai. The film is set to arrive on October 16, 2026. The cast also took the stage, with Andrew Schulz encouraging fans to check out Mortal Kombat in theaters ahead of Street Fighter, marking a fun crossover moment for gaming fans.
Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)
Johnny Depp leads a new interpretation of the classic story, scheduled for November 13, 2026. Depp also delivered one of the most memorable moments of the panel with a thoughtful speech about taking on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. He reflected on the responsibility of reimagining such an iconic character, emphasizing the emotional depth, redemption, and humanity he hopes to bring to the timeless story.
Mr. Irrelevant: The John Tuggle Story
Introduced by Phil Simms, the sports drama is set to debut on December 25, 2026.
Children of Blood and Bone
(photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood presented the highly anticipated adaptation alongside cast members Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Regina King. The film is slated for January 15, 2027.
Paramount Pictures’ CinemaCon presentation emphasized a clear strategy: investing in theatrical experiences driven by recognizable brands, major talent, and large-scale storytelling. From franchise revivals to ambitious literary adaptations and music-driven projects, the studio positioned itself as a major player in the evolving theatrical landscape—promising another Top Gun film, Transformers entries, and original IP moving forward.
