New Sci-Fi Movies & TV Shows Set to Release in January 2026
The start of 2026 brings a diverse selection of science fiction content to both theaters and streaming platforms. Fans of the genre can look forward to high stakes action and futuristic technology across a variety of new and returning titles. From expansive space adventures to gritty urban medical dramas there is something for every viewer this January. This list covers the most significant releases scheduled for the first month of the new year.
‘The Pitt’ (2025)
Noah Wyle stars in this intense medical drama that arrives on Max on January 8 2026. The series focuses on the front lines of a modern hospital and the complex technological challenges faced by health care workers. It explores the high pressure environment of an urban emergency room through a lens of futuristic medical advancements and systemic issues. This project marks a significant return to the medical genre for the lead actor while introducing speculative elements to the standard procedural format.
‘The Hunting Party’ (2025)
This high concept procedural debuts on NBC on January 8 2026 and features a specialized team of investigators. The plot follows experts who are tasked with tracking down the most dangerous fugitives who have escaped from a top secret facility. Every episode highlights the use of advanced tracking technology and psychological profiling to solve complex cases. The narrative blends elements of suspense and speculative fiction as the team uncovers a larger conspiracy behind the escapes.
‘Obex’ (2026)
The independent science fiction film ‘Obex’ receives a limited theatrical release on January 9 2026. It tells the story of a research team that discovers an anomalous object with the power to alter physical reality. The characters must decide how to handle the discovery while facing pressure from external forces interested in weaponizing the technology. This movie focuses on the philosophical implications of human interaction with unknown extraterrestrial or dimensional artifacts.
‘Tehran’ (2020)
The acclaimed thriller series ‘Tehran’ returns to Apple TV+ on January 9 2026 to continue its story of international espionage. A Mossad hacker remains deep undercover in the Iranian capital while navigating a landscape of advanced surveillance and political danger. The show utilizes realistic depictions of cyber warfare and electronic intelligence gathering to drive the plot forward. Its latest season promises to increase the tension as the central protagonist faces new moral dilemmas and lethal threats.
‘Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’ (2026)
Paramount+ expands its beloved franchise with the premiere of ‘Star Trek Starfleet Academy’ on January 15 2026. The show follows a new class of cadets as they navigate the rigorous training required to join the most prestigious organization in the galaxy. They must learn to work together while facing internal competition and external threats to the United Federation of Planets. This series introduces a fresh perspective on the iconic universe by focusing on the growth and education of the next generation of explorers.
‘All You Need Is Kill’ (2026)
The highly anticipated film ‘All You Need Is Kill’ arrives in limited theaters on January 16 2026. Based on the celebrated source material this story explores a futuristic war where soldiers utilize advanced exo suits to battle an invading alien force. The narrative centers on a protagonist who becomes trapped in a time loop during a pivotal battle against the extraterrestrial threat. It emphasizes themes of persistence and the evolution of combat strategy through repetitive experiences in a high stakes environment.
Let us know which of these science fiction projects you are most excited to watch this month in the comments.