The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Preview – Chris Pratt Heads to Space: Nintendo’s Biggest Sequel Hype for 2026
Get ready to blast off! Following the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), which grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide and became one of the highest-grossing animated films ever, Nintendo and Illumination are leveling up with the official sequel: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. This highly anticipated animated adventure comedy takes Mario and friends into the cosmos, drawing heavy inspiration from the beloved 2007 Nintendo Wii game Super Mario Galaxy (and its sequel), while incorporating surprises for fans of the entire Mario franchise.
As of January 11, 2026, the film is in the final stages of post-production after animation wrapped, with trailers and posters already generating massive buzz. The movie is set for theatrical release on April 3, 2026, in the United States (with select global markets following throughout April, and Japan on April 24, 2026), in RealD 3D and IMAX formats via Universal Pictures. It’s positioned as a spring family blockbuster, perfect for Easter weekend vibes and Mario’s ongoing 40th+ anniversary celebrations.
Plot Tease: From Mushroom Kingdom to the Stars
Mario (Chris Pratt), fresh off his Brooklyn-to-Mushroom-Kingdom journey, joins Luigi (Charlie Day), Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), and the gang on an epic space adventure. When Bowser (Jack Black, in a hilariously tiny, anger-management-seeking form) teams up with his mischievous son Bowser Jr. to cause galactic chaos, the heroes must explore cosmic worlds, tackle gravity-defying challenges, collect Power Stars, and harness the help of celestial beings to save the universe.
The story promises high-flying action across orbiting planets, spinning galaxies, and zero-gravity platforming sequences, all with the signature humor, heart, and Easter eggs that made the first film a hit. Producer Chris Meledandri has teased that while Super Mario Galaxy is the core inspiration (think Lumas, Star Bits, and Rosalina’s observatory), it includes “surprises for fans of every Mario era” — expect nods to classics like Super Mario Bros., Sunshine, and even deeper cuts.
Here are some vibrant first-look posters and key art from the campaign, showcasing the cosmic scale, colorful galaxies, and Mario’s new space suit vibes:
These images highlight the stunning animation by Illumination Studios Paris, with glowing stars, floating platforms, and epic space battles that look straight out of the games.
Returning Cast & New Voices
The voice ensemble is stacked with fan-favorites returning:
- Chris Pratt as Mario — The plumber from Brooklyn is back, ready to “let’s-a-go” into space.
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach — More action-hero than damsel, leading the charge.
- Charlie Day as Luigi — The scaredy-cat brother gets his heroic moments.
- Jack Black as Bowser — Still scheming, but now dealing with father-son dynamics and a pint-sized form.
- Keegan-Michael Key as Toad — Energetic and loyal as ever.
- Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek — The magical minion causing trouble.
New additions bring fresh energy:
- Brie Larson as Rosalina — The ethereal guardian of the cosmos, a fan-favorite from the Galaxy games (Larson has long expressed love for the series).
- Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr. — The spoiled, inventive prince adding chaos.
Here are dynamic trailer stills featuring the epic team-up and space antics:
The official trailer (dropped November 2025 during a Nintendo Direct) racked up millions of views, teasing gravity flips, Luma companions, and a massive Bowser Jr. showdown.
Creative Team & Why the Hype Is Real
- Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (returning from the first film).
- Written by Matthew Fogel.
- Produced by Chris Meledandri (Illumination) and Shigeru Miyamoto (Nintendo legend).
- Score by Brian Tyler (returning for that nostalgic Mario flair with orchestral twists).
The hype stems from:
- The First Film’s Success — It proved video game movies can be massive hits with heart and humor.
- Galaxy’s Iconic Appeal — The game’s innovative gravity mechanics, orchestral soundtrack, and emotional story (Rosalina’s backstory!) translate perfectly to the big screen.
- Star Power & Easter Eggs — Chris Pratt’s Mario, Jack Black’s Bowser songs, and deep cuts keep fans engaged.
- Family-Friendly Spectacle — Vibrant animation, humor for all ages, and 3D/IMAX immersion make it an event.
Where to Watch The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026)
- In Theaters — Premieres April 3, 2026 (IMAX and 3D prioritized). Buy tickets via:
- Fandango
- AMC Theatres
- Regal Cinemas International: Check local chains like Vue (UK), Cineworld, or BookMyShow (India).
- Streaming — No date announced yet. Expect a theatrical window first, then likely Peacock (Universal’s platform) or Netflix (following the first film’s pattern). Rewatch The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) on Peacock, Netflix, or rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV, etc., to prepare!
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026) – Chris Pratt returns as Mario in this cosmic sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Plot details, cast (Anya Taylor-Joy, Jack Black, Brie Larson as Rosalina), April 3 release, trailers & why Nintendo’s space adventure is 2026’s biggest family hit!
What do you think—does heading to space with Mario excite you the most, or are you hyped for Rosalina’s debut and Bowser Jr.’s chaos? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
