In news that should surprise absolutely no one, Nintendo and Illumination announced today–on Mario Day–that the two companies are working together on another Mario movie. 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie earned more than $1.3 billion and finished the year as the No. 2 highest-grossing movie globally (only behind Barbie), so it was likely always only a matter of time before another Mario movie would be announced.
The new film is another animated film that is “based on the world of Super Mario Bros.” but whether or not it’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2 or something else remains to be seen. Previously, we heard rumors of a Donkey Kong movie with Seth Rogen, for example.
Whatever it is, the new film will come to theaters on April 3, 2026 in the US.
Illumination’s Chris Meledandri is coming back to produce the film alongside Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, who directed 2023’s movie, are coming back to make the next one as well. And once again, Universal Pictures is co-financing with Nintendo and distributing the film.
“By getting deeply involved in the movie production with the aim to put smiles on everyone’s faces through entertainment, Nintendo will continue its efforts to produce unique entertainment and deliver it to as many people as possible,” Nintendo said. “Illumination is excited to continue its partnership with Nintendo, bringing its signature mix of joy and discovery to worldwide audiences of all ages, allowing them to connect with the beloved characters and stories from one of the world’s most popular franchises.”
In addition to this next animated Mario movie, Nintendo and Sony are teaming up for a live-action Zelda movie. Outside of Nintendo franchises, there are dozens of other video game films in the works, including the Borderlands film that comes out this year.
