Super Mario Galaxy Movie Smashes $1 Billion Box Office, Sparks Franchise Future
June 7, 2026
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, a joint Nintendo-Illumination sequel, surpassed $1 billion at the global box office after ten weekends, becoming the first 2026 release to reach that milestone.
Domestically, the film has earned about $428.5 million with $571.5 million coming from international markets, as of this weekend.
Overall, the Mario franchise has grossed roughly $2.3 billion globally across The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and its 2023 predecessor, cementing its status as one of Hollywood’s most lucrative animated franchises.
Early reviews note the film leans on nostalgia and visual spectacle, with a thinner plot and numerous Nintendo references.
There remains strong interest in more Mario content across film and games, with official channels and newsletters encouraging fan engagement.
Industry watchers expect the next Nintendo-Illumination collaboration around 2028, with momentum from the current film shaping future releases.
Universal’s near-term slate continues with high-profile animation and hybrid projects, including Steven Spielberg’s Disclosure Day, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, and Illumination’s Minions & Monsters.
Nintendo and Illumination may explore standalone Mario character films or spin-offs, potentially focusing on Star Fox or Pikmin given Galaxy’s expanded roster.
A live-action Legend of Zelda film is set for release on April 30, 2027, directed by Wes Ball.
The Galaxy Movie features a star-studded cast led by Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, with returning and new voices bringing characters like Bowser, Luigi, Yoshi, Rosalina, and more to life.
With the strong box office, a third Mario film is likely, with an untitled project planned for 2028 that could be a direct sequel or a spin-off.
Beyond theaters, the film reached digital platforms and will receive a physical release mid-June, completing its current cycle.
Summary based on 11 sources
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Sources

Gizmodo • Jun 7, 2026
‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Finally Makes $1 Billion
Variety • Jun 7, 2026
Box Office: 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Crosses $1 Billion
Deadline • Jun 7, 2026
‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Passes $1B WW, The First Pic To Do So In 2026
The Express Tribune • Jun 7, 2026
Super Mario Galaxy Movie becomes first 2026 film to cross 1bn worldwide at the box office