Mario is coming back to the big screen. As announced by Nintendo, an animated feature film starring the famous ex-plumber is currently in development as part of a collaboration with Illumination Entertainment, best known for itsDespicable Mefranchise. No release window or plot details have been announced as of the time of this writing.
The film will be co-produced by Illumination Entertainment founder Chris Meledandri and Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto. Meledandri has produced some of the highest-grossing animated films in history in the form of theDespicable Memovies, and many of his films have also earned critical acclaim. Miyamoto, meanwhile, should be able to ensure that the new Mario movie stays true to the beloved video game franchise.
After the critically-panned box office bomb that was 1993’s live-actionSuper Mario Bros.movie, it would be understandable for someSuper Mariofans to be weary about another feature film adaptation. However, the involvement of Miyamoto should go a long way in reassuring fans that the film will live up to expectations. Plus, Illumination Entertainment has a proven track record of delivering high quality animated feature films, so the movie seems to be in good hands.
A couple of years ago, Nintendo revealed itsintent to start making movies, and it makes sense that it’s testing the waters with a film based on its most popular character. The upcomingDetective Pikachulive-action film should also be a good indication of whether or not moviegoers are interested in seeing film adaptations of Nintendo’s characters.
IfDetective PikachuandSuper Marioare both successful, then it’s likely that Nintendo will move forward with other films based on its properties. The company has reportedly toyed with the idea of making aMetroidmovie in the past, plus there have long been rumblings of aLegend of Zeldamovie adaptation or Netflix TV series.
Before fans concern themselves with other possible Nintendo film adaptations, though, they should sit tight for more information on the upcoming Mario film from Nintendo and Illumination Entertainment.
