The Super Mario Bros. Movie was one of the biggest hits of 2023, and fans are eagerly awaiting its sequel, set to release in 2026. Actor Keegan-Michael Key, who lends his voice to Toad, recently shared some intriguing details about the upcoming film in an interview with Men's Journal. Key revealed that the sequel will explore a broader scope and introduce more characters from the Mushroom Kingdom. "One thing I can say about the second movie is that it's a little broader in scope, and where it takes place is very intriguing lore...," Key told Men's Journal. "They're going to find some really fantastic Easter eggs and it's been very exciting so far."
Key also hinted at the expansion of the universe, stating, "I feel like what they've done creatively is they've really widened out the universe that these characters live in and we're going to meet some new folks." While he remained tight-lipped about the identities of these new characters, he did tease that some of them are "really deep cuts," suggesting they could be lesser-known figures from Mario's world. "But because of the way the story's laying itself out right now, those characters are going to be very intriguing," Key said.
The original Super Mario Bros. Movie raked in an impressive $1.36 billion at the box office, making it the second highest-grossing film of 2023, just behind Barbie ($1.44 billion). Illumination's Chris Meledandri is set to return as producer alongside Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, who helmed the 2023 film, will also be back for the sequel. Universal Pictures will once again co-finance and distribute the film in partnership with Nintendo.
In addition to The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2, Nintendo is also working on a live-action Legend of Zelda movie, directed by Planet of the Apes and Maze Runner director Wes Ball.
