Nintendo and Illumination, the animation studio behind hits such as Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets, have recently announced their collaboration on a sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The highly anticipated film is set to hit theaters on April 3, 2026, both in the United States and internationally.
The decision to create a sequel doesn’t come as a surprise, considering the tremendous success of the 2023 film adaptation. The movie shattered records for a game adaptation by grossing an impressive $1.36 billion in box office revenue worldwide. Not only did it prove to be a financial triumph, but it also had a significant impact on Nintendo’s game sales, with a global audience of at least 168 million. Clearly, fans couldn’t get enough of the beloved plumber and his friends.
One of the key factors that contributed to the success of the previous film was the close involvement of Nintendo’s game creators in its production. This ensured that the movie stayed true to the essence of the iconic video game franchise. In this upcoming sequel, fans can expect the same level of dedication and attention to detail.
Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, known for their work on animated television shows such as Teen Titans Go!, will be directing the film. Matthew Fogel, who previously worked on The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, has been tasked with writing the screenplay. With such a talented team behind it, fans can rest assured that they are in for a treat.
The new Super Mario Bros. movie will be co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo, and Universal will handle its worldwide theatrical distribution. This collaboration between two industry giants is sure to bring the magic of Mario to audiences around the globe.
The partnership between Nintendo and Illumination has proven to be a successful one, with Illumination’s previous works, including Despicable Me and The Grinch, receiving critical acclaim and garnering a massive following. The studio is excited to continue bringing their unique blend of joy and discovery to audiences of all ages through Nintendo’s beloved characters and stories.
Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, and Shigeru Miyamoto, the representative director and fellow of Nintendo, will serve as producers on the film. Their combined expertise and love for the Super Mario franchise will undoubtedly ensure that the sequel lives up to fans’ expectations.
As we eagerly await the arrival of this highly anticipated sequel, it’s clear that Nintendo and Illumination are committed to providing an unforgettable cinematic experience for fans of Super Mario. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure with Mario, Luigi, and their friends in the spring of 2026.