RUMOR: Donkey Kong to Star in Third Nintendo Film from Illumination and Universal, Releasing in 2028

According to an upcoming theatrical release calendar for Spain from Universal Pictures International, the as-yet-untitled Nintendo movie is currently slated to release in April 2028.

Third Nintendo Film Rumored to Be Donkey Kong Spinoff

The Universal Pictures International release calendar for Spain, which extends into July 2030, has this interesting title highlighted on its slate:

Screenshot of Universal Studios International release calendar for Spain showing "Untitled Illumination/Event Film (April 2028)."

Currently, Universal is planning an “Untitled Illumination/Event Film (April 2028).” According to the document, the red highlighting “indica cambio,” or that the date could potentially be given to a different movie. Three other Illumination “event” movies are also on the calendar, set for April 16, 2027, June 29, 2029 (which is already speculated to be a third Mario movie), and July 3, 2030. All of these dates are tentative and may change or be cancelled entirely.

Screenshot of Donkey Kong from The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

So, why is this upcoming Nintendo film rumored to be a Donkey Kong spinoff? Not only has Donkey Kong already appeared in 2023’s blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie (voiced by Seth Rogen), but in May 2025, Nintendo and Universal also registered the copyright “Untitled Donkey Kong Project; Motion Picture.” So clearly, the big ape is on their mind.

Plus, multiple Universal Studios theme parks are already primed for promotion.

Donkey Kong Country and Super Nintendo World

Donkey Kong meet and greet in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan

Donkey Kong Country is already present as part of Super Nintendo World in two Universal Studios parks: Universal Studios Japan (as an expansion that opened in 2024) and as an opening day area in Universal Epic Universe. Both lands are almost identical and feature the Mine Cart Madness roller coaster, a Donkey Kong meet and greet, interactive games, and dedicated merchandise and themed food.

While Universal Studios Hollywood’s Super Nintendo World does not have a Donkey Kong Country and is the smallest of the three Nintendo areas, it could easily add a Donkey Kong meet and greet and promotional food and merchandise, much like it did with Yoshi for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

Do you hope Donkey Kong joins Illumination’s Nintendo cinematic universe? Let us know on social media.

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