The People’s Choice: Most Popular Films Ahead of the 2026 Academy Awards
As the 2026 Oscars approach this Sunday, the typical buzz surrounding critical darlings is being challenged by the voices of everyday moviegoers. While the Academy often focuses on high-brow artistry, Rotten Tomatoes has released its latest “Popcornmeter” rankings, highlighting the films that truly resonated with the public over the past year.
Surprisingly, some heavy-hitting nominees like Sinners didn’t top the fan list. Instead, the rankings—originally shared via the Daily Mail—reveal a diverse spread of thrillers, sequels, and heartfelt dramas.
10. Weapons
Kicking off the top ten is the mystery-horror Weapons, starring Josh Brolin. With an 85% audience score, the film follows a community reeling from the simultaneous disappearance of an entire classroom of children. Notably, the film features Amy Madigan, who secured her first Oscar nomination in four decades for her supporting role alongside Julia Garner.
9. Frankenstein
Guillermo Del Toro’s take on the Mary Shelley classic, Frankenstein, lands at number nine. Despite earning nine Academy Award nominations, its 94% fan score proves it is as much a crowd-pleaser as it is a critical success. The film features Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Oscar Isaac in a tragic exploration of Victor Frankenstein’s ego.
8. Eternity
A24 continues its winning streak with the romantic comedy Eternity, which earned a 90% Popcornmeter rating. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Callum Turner, and Miles Teller, the story explores a surreal afterlife where souls have one week to choose where they will spend forever.
7. Zootopia 2
Disney’s Zootopia 2 remains a powerhouse in the animation sector. With a 95% score, the sequel sees Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman return as Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. The duo goes undercover to track a mysterious reptile, earning a Best Animated Feature nomination in the process.
6. Predator: Badlands
Elle Fanning and Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi lead this sci-fi survival hit. Predator: Badlands sits at number six with a 95% rating, proving that the long-running franchise still has teeth, especially with its futuristic, off-world setting.
5. Solo Mio
Proving that audiences still love a good laugh, Kevin James’ Solo Mio secured fifth place. This romantic comedy, set in the picturesque streets of Rome, holds a 95% rating and has been praised by fans as the perfect “date night” movie.
4. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Nia DaCosta breathes new life into the iconic horror franchise. Starring Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes, this post-apocalyptic thriller earned an 88% score, focusing on the terrifying realization that human survivors can be more dangerous than the infected.
3. Rental Family
Brendan Fraser continues his career resurgence with Rental Family. This unique drama about an American actor working for a Japanese rental-family agency struck a chord with viewers, earning a massive 96% audience rating for its emotional depth and human connection.
2. The Housemaid
Based on Freida McFadden’s viral novel, The Housemaid takes the runner-up spot. This psychological thriller, starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, captivated audiences with its “sexy and scandalous” twists, resulting in a 92% fan score.
1. Nuremberg
The most beloved film of the year, according to fans, is the psychological drama Nuremberg. Despite being overlooked for a Best Picture nomination, the film holds a 95% Popcornmeter score. It features a gripping showdown between a psychiatrist, played by Rami Malek, and a war criminal, portrayed by Russell Crowe, during the historical trials.
