Mario galaxy movie shatters wednesday records, but does it soar?
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is off to a roaring start, exceeding box office projections despite a mixed critical reception. The Nintendo animated sequel earned $34 million in the U.S. on Wednesday, according to a report from Deadline, claiming the best Wednesday opening of 2026 to date.
A strong start, questionable reviews
The film’s Wednesday debut also surpasses its predecessor, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which opened with $31.7 million in 2023. While forecasts predict a slight dip in box office revenue during the week, the movie is expected to maintain a healthy global performance. The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is a robust 91%, a stark contrast to the 41% recommendation rate among critics.
IGN’s review reflected this dichotomy: “It’s OK, it really is,” we wrote, awarding the film a 6/10. The film excels in delivering a barrage of Easter eggs, but struggles to build a strong emotional core. The film’s success is a testament to Nintendo’s enduring appeal, but its long-term trajectory hinges on whether future installments can balance fan service with narrative depth.
The original Super Mario Bros. Movie ultimately grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide, and Nintendo, alongside Illumination, will be hoping for a similar return. Rumors are already circulating about future sequels, with Jack Black, the voice of Bowser, suggesting a third film could arrive in 2029. This would suggest a steady stream of Mario adventures hitting theaters annually, with The Legend of Zelda live-action film slated for 2027.
Beyond sequels, the Galaxy Movie has seemingly opened the door to a wider universe, with the film establishing an in-universe context for Mario to interact with characters from other Nintendo franchises. This hints at the possibility of a full-fledged Super Smash Bros. Movie down the line.
The box office numbers are impressive. But will the franchise retain its magic as it expands across multiple universes? The next few years will reveal whether Mario’s adventures can maintain their momentum.