Nintendo and Illumination confirm second Super Mario Bros. Movie for 2026

Nintendo and Illumination have announced a new Super Mario Bros. film.

According to an announcement from Nintendo, the film, which is based on “the world of Super Mario Bros.,” is set for release on April 3, 2026.

The movie will again be produced by Chris Meledandri, Founder and CEO of Illumination, and Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director, Fellow of Nintendo, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, and written by Matthew Fogel.

The film will be co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo and distributed theatrically worldwide by Universal Pictures.

A new video announcement from Mr Miyamoto was posted to social media on Sunday to celebrate Mario Day, March 10, and confirm the second film.

“As for details of the new film, as I often say, we’ll let you know once we’re at the stage where we’re ready to share more.

“This time, 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.”

Illumination’s Chris Meledandri said, “I’m thrilled to announce our return to Super Mario Bros.”

“We start animation soon, and rest assured we’re be stressing over every detail to get it right.”

While the directors and writer of the Super Mario Bros. Movie will return, the announcement stops short of calling this a sequel.

The announcement reads: “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.”

It continues: “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.”