The Super Bowl 2026 Trailers: A Review of the Hits, Misses, and Snubs
The Super Bowl is not just about the game itself; it's a platform for movie trailers to make a splash. This year, while not all the big-name films were present, we've rounded up the best, worst, and most notable trailers that graced the big screen during the event.
The Best:
Project Hail Mary: This trailer stood out with its full-length showcase, featuring Ryan Gosling in space alongside an alien companion. The visuals and scale are impressive, leaving viewers eager for more. It's a rare treat to see a trailer given such prominence.
Disclosure Day: The trailer continues to build suspense with its eerie sounds and mysterious atmosphere. Even without revealing too much, it hints at an intriguing alien mystery, leaving audiences curious for the full story in July.
Super Mario Galaxy: Nintendo and Illumination's double-play with separate trailers before and after the Super Bowl was a clever move. Whether it's the adorable baby Mario and Luigi or the hilarious Yoshi eating an egg, it's a fun and engaging watch.
Minions & Monsters: This trailer takes a humorous approach, imagining the Minions summoning monsters and encountering a Cthulu-like creature. While it might be overbearing for kids, it's a fun and unique concept that will likely draw audiences to theaters.
The Worst:
The Mandalorian & Grogu: The surprise ad felt underwhelming, resembling a late holiday commercial. It fails to address the question of the movie's premise, leaving viewers unsure of its appeal.
Scream 7: The trailer lacks the expected 'oomph,' with only a cool visual of a victim in a theater. It doesn't capture the essence of the franchise, leaving fans wondering if it will live up to the hype.
Supergirl: While it featured baby Krypto, the ad reused footage from the first trailer, missing an opportunity to showcase Krypto's chaotic personality. It was a standard ad, not a memorable one.
The Missing in Action:
Mortal Kombat II: With only three months to go, the trailer's absence is notable. The game's popularity and potential for a third installment suggest a more substantial marketing push was warranted.
Superheroes (as a concept): The absence of superhero trailers was surprising, given the upcoming releases of Daredevil and Spider-Man. It's a missed opportunity to capitalize on the genre's popularity.
Toy Story & Moana: Disney's restraint in not flooding the Super Bowl with its June and July releases is commendable. However, the lack of trailers for these films leaves audiences wondering about the reasons behind the delay, especially with the positive reactions to 'Hoppers.'
For more movie news and release dates, stay tuned to io9 for updates on Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek, as well as the latest from the DC Universe and the future of Doctor Who.
