Every year, studios release dozens of blockbuster films — but only a handful actually become licensing powerhouses.

In this episode of Born to License, David Born shares his hot take on the 2026 theatrical slate and answers the question every licensee, licensor, and retailer should be asking right now: which movies will really drive consumer products sales?

Drawing on real industry experience, David rates the licensing potential of major 2026 releases and explains why some box office hits fail at retail — while others dominate shelves worldwide.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The biggest licensing lesson from 2025’s surprise hit K-Pop Demon Hunters
• Why licensing success requires betting on properties before audiences do
• David’s licensing score (out of 10) for 2026’s biggest films, including:
  • Toy Story 5
  • Spider-Man: Brand New Day
  • Avengers: Doomsday
  • The Mandalorian & Grogu
  • Minions 3
  • Super Mario Galaxy
  • Moana (Live Action)
  • Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
• Which studio David believes will win the licensing battle in 2026
• Why evergreen IP often outperforms tentpole-driven franchises

If you work in licensing, retail, brand strategy, or entertainment, this episode will change how you look at theatrical releases — and what actually matters when it comes to consumer products.

🎧 Next episode: Why you need to start preparing now for Licensing Expo — and the biggest mistakes brands make every year.

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

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