‘Donkey Kong’ Movie Moves Forward as Universal Files Copyright

Donkey Kong is getting his own movie?

A new copyright filing jointly submitted by Nintendo and Universal Pictures suggests that a feature-length “Donkey Kong” is happening. The filing, recorded on June 5, 2026, and executed in late May, is officially classified as a motion picture.

While the listing lacks any creative or casting details, its mere existence points to plans for expanding the Mario cinematic universe. It should be noted, Donkey Kong had a supporting role in 2023’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” voiced by Seth Rogen.

Given that a sequel to Mario Bros. is expected in 2026, speculation is already mounting that DK could return in that project as well — possibly laying the groundwork for his own spinoff.

Nintendo has been steadily ramping up its frabchise ambitions. Outside of Mario and DK, a live-action “Legend of Zelda” adaptation is also on the way, directed by Wes Ball; it release was recently delayed to May 2027.

It’s unclear whether the potential Donkey Kong movie will continue in the animated style of The Super Mario Bros. Movie or go in a new direction. Given Universal’s Illumination studio’s success with Mario, the former seems more likely.

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