Following the monumental success of *The Super Mario Bros. Movie*, which raked in over a billion dollars worldwide, it appears Nintendo and Universal Pictures are exploring further cinematic ventures based on the beloved gaming giant`s vast library of characters. While rumors have circulated about various potential projects, a recent formal step provides a strong indication that Donkey Kong might be the next character to receive the big-screen treatment.
Concrete evidence has emerged in the form of a copyright filing. This official document, jointly submitted by Universal and Nintendo, explicitly mentions an “untitled Donkey Kong motion picture.” Such a filing represents a significant procedural step in the early stages of development, signaling serious intent beyond mere conceptual discussions.
Adding a layer of fascinating historical irony to this news is the complex past relationship between Universal and Nintendo concerning this very character. Decades ago, the two companies were entangled in a notable legal battle, with Universal alleging that Nintendo`s arcade hit, *Donkey Kong*, infringed upon their intellectual property rights related to *King Kong*. Nintendo ultimately prevailed in court, notably by demonstrating that Universal had previously argued *King Kong* was in the public domain. Fast forward to today, and we see these former courtroom adversaries now collaborating as production partners, poised to potentially profit handsomely from the very ape that sparked their initial conflict. It`s a Hollywood ending, albeit a distinctly corporate one.
Given the tremendous success of the Mario movie, it is widely presumed that the creative and production teams behind that film, notably Illumination, would be involved in a potential Donkey Kong project. Their expertise in bringing Nintendo`s vibrant worlds to life in animation proved incredibly effective. While no specific crew members have been officially attached, the collaborative filing suggests a continuation of the successful partnership model.
Seth Rogen provided the voice for Donkey Kong in *The Super Mario Bros. Movie*, portraying the character as a prominent, albeit secondary, hero. While not officially confirmed for this potential solo film or the announced Mario sequel (*The Super Mario World Movie*, slated for April 3, 2026), it is a reasonable assumption that Rogen might reprise his role, given his recent portrayal and the character`s significant presence in the Mario universe.
This cinematic prospect arrives at a time when Donkey Kong is also seeing increased activity in the gaming sphere. The character is set to star in his first new mainline game in over a decade, *Donkey Kong Bananza*, anticipated for release on the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 console on July 17. Additionally, the classic *Donkey Kong 64* is reportedly among the titles potentially heading to the Nintendo Switch Online service in the near future. This multi-pronged approach across film and games underscores Nintendo`s continued investment in the Donkey Kong franchise.
While the filing for an “untitled Donkey Kong motion picture” does not constitute a formal project announcement with release dates or cast lists, it is the most concrete indicator yet that an animated film centered around the legendary ape is actively being considered and developed by Nintendo and Universal. Fans of the franchise can cautiously get their hopes up that the King of the Jungle may soon be swinging onto movie screens.
Callum Darby