Nintendo has strategically rebranded its film division to Nintendo Stars, signaling a significant commitment to bringing its iconic franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda, to the big screen and beyond.
This move follows the immense success of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," which grossed over $1.3 billion globally. Nintendo Stars, formerly a joint venture and now a wholly owned subsidiary, will lead the development of major film projects. The company has set an ambitious release schedule, with a sequel to "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" slated for April 3, 2026, and a live-action "The Legend of Zelda" film scheduled for May 7, 2027. Recent copyright filings also indicate a Donkey Kong film is in development, suggesting a broader cinematic universe is being established.
The expansion into film is a deliberate strategy to broaden access to Nintendo's intellectual property. The success of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" not only boosted Mario's visibility but also positively impacted sales of related games and consoles, demonstrating the powerful synergy between Nintendo's gaming and entertainment ventures. As Nintendo Stars embarks on this new chapter, audiences can anticipate a consistent stream of high-quality cinematic content that honors the spirit of these enduring franchises.