Tom Hanks has delivered countless iconic performances over his decades-long career, from the heartfelt charm of Forrest Gump to the voice of Woody in the Toy Story franchise. But one of his more understated projects, the 2021 Apple TV sci-fi drama Finch, is experiencing a surprising resurgence in 2026. Five years after its straight-to-streaming release, this post-apocalyptic tale is quietly climbing the ranks of Apple TV's most-watched titles in over 15 countries.
Directed by Miguel Sapochnik, known for his work on Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, Finch stars Hanks as the titular character, a robotics engineer surviving in a ravaged world. The story follows Finch as he builds a robot companion to protect his beloved dog after his own health declines. The film earned a 74% critics' score and 68% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its emotional depth and Hanks' performance.
Despite being released directly to streaming, Finch has found a dedicated audience over time. Its quiet takeover of streaming charts in 2026 highlights how certain films can gain traction long after their initial release. The movie's themes of loyalty, survival, and the bonds between humans and animals resonate strongly in an era where audiences crave heartfelt storytelling.
Hanks is no stranger to Apple TV; he also starred in the WWII naval drama Greyhound, released a year before Finch. He is currently filming a sequel to Greyhound in Italy, which will reportedly bring back Stephen Graham. That project has no release date yet, but fans are eager to see Hanks return to the role.
For those who missed Finch the first time, it's a must-watch for sci-fi fans and Hanks enthusiasts alike. The film's visual beauty and emotional core make it a standout in the genre, even if it didn't get a theatrical release. As streaming continues to dominate entertainment, Finch proves that great stories can find their audience over time.
If you're looking for more overlooked gems, check out our list of Forgotten 80s Sci-Fi Shows That Deserve a Second Look or explore Forgotten Crime Thrillers That Are Flawless From First Frame to Last. For more on Hanks' upcoming projects, stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot.
