In anticipation for the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie 2, it seems that one Nintendo character is set to star in a standalone film.
In an exciting development for fans of the Super Mario Bros. franchise, it appears that Nintendo and Universal Pictures are working on a Donkey Kong spinoff movie. According to recent reports, the companies have filed a copyright for an "Untitled Donkey Kong Project; Motion picture," which suggests that a Donkey Kong film is in the works[1][2][4].
This project follows the success of *The Super Mario Bros. Movie*, where Donkey Kong, voiced by Seth Rogen, made a significant impact[3]. The movie, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.
Given the current timeline, fans might not see the Donkey Kong movie until between 2027 and 2028, as it is still in early stages[1]. The production is expected to involve Illumination, known for *Despicable Me* and *The Super Mario Bros. Movie*, and may feature other notable characters from the Donkey Kong universe[1].
Nintendo's expansion into film is not limited to the Donkey Kong spinoff. The company is also developing a *Legend of Zelda* live-action film for 2027, and there is a sequel to *The Super Mario Bros. Movie* scheduled for 2026[1][3]. These projects indicate a significant expansion of Nintendo's franchise into film, leveraging the popularity of its characters and worlds.
While the details about the Donkey Kong spinoff are limited, Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Mario, has indicated that development for the sequel is active[5]. However, it is best not to get one's hopes up until official news is released about the Donkey Kong spinoff.
The first Super Mario Bros. Movie was a billion-dollar hit, and the sequel and potential Donkey Kong spinoff are expected to take patience from moviegoers. Nevertheless, with Nintendo's continued success and the multigenerational appeal of its IP, a return to the franchise is imminent.
In addition to the Donkey Kong spinoff movie, Universal Studios is also working on a Mine-Cart Madness ride featuring Donkey Kong[6]. These projects underscore the enduring popularity of the Super Mario Bros. franchise and its characters, and fans can look forward to more exciting announcements in the future.
[1] https://www.ign.com/articles/super-mario-bros-movie-2-sequel-confirmed-release-date-2026 [2] https://www.polygon.com/2022/6/2/23153089/super-mario-bros-movie-2-sequel-release-date-2026-nintendo-universal-movies-and-tv [3] https://www.cnet.com/culture/entertainment/the-super-mario-bros-movie-review-a-fun-adventure-that-kills-it-on-the-details/ [4] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/super-mario-bros-movie-2-sequel-confirmed-release-date-2026-1235103572/ [5] https://www.gamespot.com/articles/super-mario-bros-movie-2-is-in-development-according-to-shigeru-miyamoto/1100-6507869/ [6] https://www.insider.com/universal-studios-super-mario-bros-ride-mini-land-2021-12
The upcoming Donkey Kong spinoff movie, which is currently in development, could provide a daily blend of entertainment for fans, similar to the enthralling narrative and hilarious character portrayals found in movies-and-tv like "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" and "Despicable Me." This project, alongside the scheduled sequel to "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" and the upcoming live-action "Legend of Zelda" film, emphasizes Nintendo's ongoing expansion into the entertainment industry, showcasing their commitment to leveraging the popularity of their beloved franchises.
