Nintendo has just announced exciting news for fans of the beloved Super Mario Bros franchise: a new animated film is in the works and set to hit theaters on April 3rd, 2026, in the US and various other markets. The announcement, made by none other than the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto himself, has sparked a wave of anticipation among gamers and movie enthusiasts alike.
“This is Miyamoto. We are now creating a new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros. This film is planned for release in theaters on April 3rd, 2026 in the US and many other markets, and throughout the month of April in other territories. [1/2]
We’ll let you know the details once we’re ready to share more. This time too, the staff at Illumination and Nintendo are working together. We’re thinking about broadening Mario’s world further, and it’ll have a bright and fun story. We hope you’ll look forward to it! [2/2]”
This isn’t the first time Mario and his pals have made the leap from console screens to the silver screen. In 1993, a live-action adaptation titled “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” was released to mixed reviews and box office disappointment. Despite its shortcomings, the film has since gained a cult following and remains a fascinating piece of video game movie history.
The Super Mario Bros. movie released in 2023 brings a fresh perspective to the beloved Nintendo franchise, departing from the unconventional live-action adaptation of its 1993 predecessor. Directed by an all-star team including Charlie Bean and produced by Illumination Entertainment, known for their success with animated hits like Despicable Me and Minions, this animated film captured the essence of the Mushroom Kingdom with vibrant visuals and a whimsical storyline. Drawing inspiration from the iconic video game series, the 2023 adaptation enchanted audiences of all ages with its imaginative world-building and beloved characters, offering a delightful cinematic experience that stays true to the spirit of the Super Mario Bros. franchise.
Unlike its live-action predecessor, the 2023 Super Mario Bros. movie embraced the fantastical elements of the Mushroom Kingdom, bringing to life the iconic landscapes and characters in stunning animated detail. With a focus on broadening Mario’s world and delivering a bright and fun story, the film invites viewers on an exciting adventure alongside the heroic plumber and his friends. Backed by the creative collaboration of Illumination Entertainment and Nintendo, this animated adaptation offers one of gaming’s most beloved franchises a delightful journey into the colorful and imaginative world of Super Mario Bros.
With this new animated venture, Nintendo aims to learn from past experiences and deliver a fresh take on the beloved characters and their iconic universe. Collaborating once again with Illumination, the studio behind hits like “Despicable Me” and “Minions,” Nintendo is poised to bring Mario’s world to life in vibrant and imaginative ways.
Miyamoto’s promise of a “bright and fun story” suggests a return to the lighthearted and whimsical tone that has endeared Mario to audiences for decades. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the prospect of exploring and expanding Mario’s universe is sure to excite fans eager for new adventures with their favorite plumber. As anticipation builds for the upcoming film, one thing is certain: With the combined creative talents of Nintendo and Illumination at the helm, the future looks bright for the mustachioed hero and his friends as they prepare to make a splash on the big screen once again.