Kyoto, Japan, January 25, 2026 – The eagerly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster Super Mario Bros. Movie just gave fans a tantalizing glimpse into its cosmic adventure.

Illumination and Nintendo Co., Ltd. today revealed the very first look at fan-favorite character Yoshi in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie during a special Nintendo Direct presentation.

Not only did Yoshi make his grand debut, but Nintendo also announced a slight shift in release dates, now set for a global rollout by Universal Pictures in April 2026. Is this film poised to replicate (or even surpass) the original’s massive success?

The original Super Mario Bros. Movie, released in 2023, defied critics and soared to over $1.3 billion worldwide, proving the immense cinematic potential of Nintendo’s iconic plumber. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie aims to build on that foundation, taking Mario and friends into the vast, star-filled world of Super Mario Galaxy.

The decision to reveal Yoshi, a character beloved for his loyal companionship and distinctive gameplay mechanics, is a clear nod to fan expectations and a strategic move to build hype.

The film, an animated extravaganza, will now be released in the U.S. and many other global markets on April 1, 2026, moving up slightly from its original April 3 date. Japanese audiences will get it on April 24, 2026, with other territories releasing throughout April.

Both films are produced by Chris Meledandri of Illumination (the studio behind Despicable Me and The Grinch) and Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo, a collaborative partnership that clearly struck gold. The film is co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo, ensuring strong backing for its worldwide distribution.

The creative team behind the original hit is returning for the sequel, promising continuity and a proven formula. Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic are back in the director’s chairs, with Matthew Fogel penning the screenplay, and Brian Tyler composing the score. This consistency suggests a commitment to the tone and style that resonated with audiences globally.

The star-studded voice cast also returns, including Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, and Jack Black as Bowser. New additions include Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr., Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek, and Brie Larson as Rosalina, a key character from the Super Mario Galaxy game.

The inclusion of Rosalina, particularly voiced by Brie Larson, further indicates the film’s deep dive into the beloved game’s lore.

Since its founding in 1889, Nintendo has consistently created unique, family-friendly entertainment, selling billions of video games and hardware units worldwide through iconic franchises like Mario, Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda.

Illumination was founded in 2007 and has a track record of creating successful event-animated films with global appeal. Their combined forces are clearly aiming for another cinematic home run.

The first look at Yoshi in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is just the beginning; expect a full marketing blitz as the April 2026 release date approaches.

Will Yoshi be as charming on screen as he is in the games? Fans can hardly wait to find out.