Mario blasts off to space in the sequel to the 2023 blockbuster

Nintendo and Illumination are taking Mario beyond the Mushroom Kingdom. During a surprise Nintendo Direct presentation, creator Shigeru Miyamoto unveiled the first official trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, the sequel to 2023’s record-breaking The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The animated adventure hits theaters on April 26, 2026, and promises to expand Mario’s cinematic universe to the stars.

The trailer opens with a shrunken Bowser (Jack Black) adjusting to life in a miniature version of his castle following his defeat in the last film. Despite being downsized, Bowser remains as scheming as ever, while Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) attempt to keep peace in the Mushroom Kingdom. Their uneasy alliance is soon tested by the arrival of Bowser Jr., voiced by Benny Safdie (Oppenheimer), who’s determined to restore his father’s power.

But the trailer’s biggest reveal comes in its final moments, Brie Larson (Captain Marvel) appears as Rosalina, the celestial guardian from the Super Mario Galaxy games, using her cosmic abilities to battle a towering robotic foe in an interstellar showdown.

Brie Larson joins the cast as the cosmic princess Rosalina

Following the trailer’s debut, Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri confirmed Larson’s casting as Rosalina, describing her as “a commanding yet compassionate presence, the emotional heart of Mario’s new cosmic journey.”

Rosalina’s inclusion marks the franchise’s leap into new territory. In Nintendo lore, she rules over the Comet Observatory and acts as a mother div to the star-like Lumas. Her philosophical and gentle demeanor contrasts with Princess Peach’s regal assertiveness, suggesting the sequel will explore deeper emotional themes alongside the usual action and humor.

Returning cast members include Anya Taylor-Joy as Peach, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, Charlie Day as Luigi, and Jack Black reprising his scene-stealing role as Bowser. While Yoshi does not appear in the trailer, fans have speculated the green dinosaur will make a cameo, possibly setting up a third installment.

The legacy of the first film and fan reactions to the new cast

The 2023 Super Mario Bros. Movie earned over $1 billion globally despite initial skepticism about casting Chris Pratt as Mario. Though critics were mixed, audiences embraced the film’s colorful animation and nostalgic energy, making it one of Illumination’s most profitable releases.

Online reaction to the new trailer has been swift. Fans praised the cosmic visuals and Rosalina’s debut but were divided over Larson’s addition, echoing the early debates about Pratt’s casting. Meanwhile, Benny Safdie’s unexpected turn as Bowser Jr. has intrigued many, with some noting his transition from indie filmmaker to major studio voice actor.

The film’s tone appears slightly more mature, focusing on cosmic exploration and family dynamics, a nod to Super Mario Galaxy’s emotional storytelling and themes of loneliness and wonder.

What the sequel draws from the games

While the first movie pulled references from multiple Mario titles, this sequel centers specifically on 2002’s Super Mario Sunshine and 2007’s Super Mario Galaxy.

• Super Mario Sunshine introduced Bowser Jr. and his signature paintbrush weapon, glimpsed in the trailer.
• Super Mario Galaxy redefined the series with gravity-defying platforming and Rosalina’s mythic backstory, elements that appear to inspire much of the film’s setting and tone.

Nintendo seems intent on expanding its cinematic universe by building on its strongest franchises. With The Super Mario Galaxy Movie now confirmed, attention is turning to Nintendo’s next big project: a live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, slated for release in 2027.

Why this matters for Nintendo’s cinematic universe

Nintendo’s recent box-office success marks a turning point in its approach to film adaptations. After decades of cautious licensing, scarred by the disastrous 1993 live-action Super Mario Bros., the company has embraced storytelling partnerships that respect its source material.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie could serve as a test case for a shared Nintendo Cinematic Universe, paving the way for potential crossovers featuring Donkey Kong, Zelda, or even Metroid. The film also represents Illumination’s growing creative confidence, blending humor, heart, and nostalgia for both longtime fans and new audiences.

If the trailer is any indication, Mario’s next adventure won’t just be another platforming romp; it’s aiming for a galactic epic with emotional stakes and cinematic flair.

TL;DR

• The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer introduces Brie Larson as Rosalina and Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr.
• Sequel to 2023’s billion-dollar Super Mario Bros. Movie, releasing April 26, 2026.
• Trailer teases Mario and Luigi facing Bowser Jr. and cosmic challenges.
• Draws inspiration from Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy games.
• Marks Nintendo’s continued expansion into a connected cinematic universe.