It’s official—Nintendo’s banana-loving behemoth is swinging into the cinematic spotlight.
After decades in the gaming jungle and a scene-stealing turn in 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Donkey Kong appears to be set for a solo adventure on the silver screen. A newly filed copyright declaration from Nintendo Studios and Universal Pictures strongly hints at an upcoming Donkey Kong motion picture, marking yet another step in Nintendo’s bold expansion into film and entertainment.
A Legal Trail Of Bananas: The Copyright That Launched A Thousand Bananzas
The copyright, filed in May 2025, lists Nintendo and Universal as co-producers of an untitled Donkey Kong film. While official confirmation remains under wraps, the filing has fans and industry insiders buzzing. Given Seth Rogen’s memorable portrayal of the chest-thumping Kong in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, expectations are sky-high that he’ll return to voice the titular primate once again.
And why not? Rogen’s Donkey Kong was a breakout star—gruff, hilarious, and instantly memeable. His on-screen dynamic with Chris Pratt’s Mario drew praise, setting the stage for a potential spin-off that feels not only logical but inevitable.
A Strategic Expansion For the Nintendo Cinematic Universe
The timing couldn’t be better. Nintendo is clearly shifting into high gear with its cinematic strategy, following the billion-dollar success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Alongside the recently announced Legend of Zelda adaptation, a Donkey Kong-centric film represents a strategic broadening of the Nintendo Cinematic Universe—one that’s both fan-driven and franchise-building.
In fact, DK is already enjoying a renaissance across Nintendo’s portfolio. This month sees the release of Donkey Kong Bananza, the character’s first mainline solo game in over a decade, and he’s been featured with a sleeker, classic-inspired design in both Mario Kart World and Nintendo’s Super Nintendo World theme parks. The much-anticipated Donkey Kong Country expansion at Universal Studios marks the first major addition to the parks since their opening.
It’s clear: Nintendo isn’t just giving Donkey Kong a movie—it’s giving him a movement.
Behind The Bananas And What We Might Expect
Although plot details remain tightly guarded, it’s likely the Donkey Kong film will be helmed by Illumination, the animation powerhouse behind the Mario franchise and the upcoming Super Mario Bros. sequel (slated for 2026). The studio’s track record with vibrant, family-friendly visuals and cheeky humor make it the natural home for the barrel-blasting ape’s big-screen journey.
Could we see more from the Kong family—Diddy, Dixie, Cranky, and Funky? Will the film introduce classic villains like King K. Rool? And will the tone lean more into action, comedy, or even heart? While questions abound, fans are already ready to reserve their seats.
Donkey Kong’s Big-Screen Potential
Donkey Kong is one of gaming’s most iconic and enduring characters—debuting in 1981 as Mario’s first nemesis before evolving into a beloved hero in his own right. This upcoming film is more than fan service; it’s a full-circle moment. For Nintendo, it’s a chance to give Kong the spotlight he’s long deserved. For fans, it’s the opportunity to finally see the jungle king carry a film solo. And this time, unlike the 1993 Super Mario Bros. Movie, the odds of success are stacked in DK’s favor.
