Overview
- The film opened in U.S. theaters on Sept. 10, 2026, with heavy star promotion and red‑carpet premieres in London and Los Angeles.
- Critics gave mixed reviews overall while consistently praising the chemistry between Bullock and Kidman and the performances of the returning older cast.
- Reviewers and critics singled out story and tonal problems, citing an overlong 130‑minute runtime, an uneven third act, and heavier supernatural emphasis that downplays some of the original’s darker domestic themes.
- A public dispute over recasting surfaced before release when original child actors said they were not contacted about replacements, a choice producers say was driven by the sequel’s story needs.
- Warner Bros. has not set a streaming date; industry outlets project a premium VOD window in mid‑to‑late October followed by HBO Max in November–December if theatrical returns do not prompt schedule changes.