Guy Ritchie is preparing to return to the big screen with a project that already has film fans talking — and this time, he’s venturing into darker, more layered territory. The director’s upcoming black comedy thriller Wife & Dog has officially locked in a 2026 theatrical release, promising a sharp blend of satire, suspense, and aristocratic intrigue.
The film is set to debut in U.S. cinemas on October 23, with a UK release expected to follow shortly after, though an exact date has yet to be announced.
A Power Struggle Among Britain’s Elite
At the center of the story is the influential Fairbank family, whose wealth and social standing place them at the top of Britain’s elite — until internal ambition threatens to tear everything apart. The narrative dives deep into a ruthless succession battle, exposing betrayal, greed, and manipulation beneath polished manners and inherited privilege.
The film’s cast reads like an awards-season dream lineup. Alongside Benedict Cumberbatch and James Norton, the ensemble includes Rosamund Pike, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Cosmo Jarvis, Pip Torrens, and Paddy Considine.
“Unlike Anything He’s Done Before”
Cumberbatch has hinted that Wife & Dog marks a significant shift in Guy Ritchie’s filmmaking style. While the director’s signature elements remain, the actor describes the project as something far more emotionally charged than expected.
According to Cumberbatch, the film moves beyond Ritchie’s familiar action-driven swagger, embracing a tone that feels more introspective and character-focused — a surprising evolution from previous works like Wrath of Man and The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.
He also revealed that stepping into a role typically associated with Ritchie’s tough-guy archetypes pushed him outside his comfort zone — a challenge he fully embraced.
A Busy Future for Guy Ritchie
Wife & Dog is just one piece of an increasingly packed slate for Ritchie. The filmmaker is also developing In The Grey, starring Henry Cavill, Jake Gyllenhaal, and once again Rosamund Pike. On the television side, fan-favorite series MobLand and The Gentlemen are both gearing up for their second seasons.
Release Details
- U.S. Release: October 23, 2026
- UK Release: Expected October 2026 (date TBA)
With its prestigious cast, biting social commentary, and a darker twist on Guy Ritchie’s trademark style, Wife & Dog is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most intriguing cinematic releases.