As the franchise expands, fans can expect a carefully crafted sequel after the success of the latest installment
Category: Arts & Culture
Keegan-Michael Key has confirmed that the third installment of the animated Super Mario franchise is targeting a theatrical release in 2029. The announcement follows Jack Black's earlier comments, which hinted at a similar timeline during a recent interview. Key's statements were made during a discussion with ScreenRant related to the digital release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which has already earned approximately $967 million worldwide since its debut earlier this year.
This latest update comes after months of speculation about the future of Nintendo and Illumination’s successful animated franchise. The first film, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, released in 2023, grossed an impressive $1.36 billion globally, proving that Nintendo characters can thrive in the modern cinematic environment. With this financial success, anticipation for the next chapter in the franchise has been building.
Key explained the rationale behind the long wait for the third movie: "We want to get it right. We want to get everything right. And Michael and Aaron, who are our directors, have a real passion for this. I think they’re as passionate about these projects as the audience is. And so we got to get it right, we got to get it right. So I apologize. But it’ll be worth the wait. It’ll be worth the wait... '29 is a lot more specific than sometime, right?" This commitment to quality has resonated with fans, who seem willing to wait for a well-crafted sequel.
The Super Mario franchise has seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity, especially after the release of the first two films. The original movie, released in 2023, faced skepticism from fans about whether a video game adaptation could succeed in a crowded marketplace. Critics were divided, but audiences embraced the film, which earned a strong audience score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Following this success, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie expanded the franchise's universe, taking beloved characters like Mario and Luigi into outer space. The sequel introduced new elements, including the kidnapping of Princess Rosalina by Bowser and Bowser Jr., which raised the stakes significantly. The film's narrative and visual appeal have contributed to its box office success, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2026 so far.
Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic have been praised for their creative vision and dedication to the franchise. Their approach has been characterized by a careful balance of nostalgia and innovation, ensuring that both long-time fans and new audiences can enjoy the films. The inclusion of a star-studded voice cast, including Key, Black, Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, and others, has also played a key role in the franchise's appeal.
As fans eagerly await the third installment, the release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on digital platforms has provided an opportunity for audiences to revisit the franchise. The film is now available for purchase and rental, with physical Blu-ray and DVD releases scheduled for June 16, 2026. Streaming availability is expected on Peacock, though a specific date has yet to be announced.
With the franchise's growing success, there is speculation that Nintendo may aim to create a larger interconnected cinematic universe, similar to those seen with Marvel or DC. This could lead to more expansive storytelling and character development in future installments. The groundwork for this has already begun with the introduction of new characters in the latest film, such as Donald Glover and Brie Larson.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring that the next film meets the high expectations set by its predecessors. Key's comments suggest that the creative team is committed to maintaining the quality that fans have come to expect. As the industry evolves, the Super Mario franchise appears to be positioning itself as a major player in animated cinema.
As the countdown to 2029 begins, fans can look forward to the possibility of a carefully crafted and engaging third installment. The anticipation surrounding the film is indicative of the franchise's enduring popularity and the dedication of its creators to deliver a sequel that lives up to the legacy of its predecessors.