The plumbers are still ruling the galaxy.
Universal and Illumination’s The Super Mario Galaxy Movie delivered another stellar frame this weekend, earning an estimated $69 million in its second weekend at the domestic box office — a solid 48% hold that brings its North American total to $308.1 million. Worldwide, the sequel has now crossed $629 million and is on a clear path to $700 million globally next weekend.
Released April 1, 2026, the space-faring adventure has become the biggest opening of the year so far and the highest-grossing Illumination title based on a video game since the original Super Mario Bros. Movie. With a modest $110 million budget, it’s already a massive win for studios betting on family-friendly IP.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie | In Theaters Now
Credit: Nintendo + Illumination / Official Site
Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and Princess Peach blast through the cosmos in one of the film’s most breathtaking sequences.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Review: Chaotic Fun, Gorgeous Animation & All The First Movie’s Problems
Credit: Universal Pictures / Illumination
Holding strong at #2 was Project Hail Mary with $24.58 million (a respectable 23% drop), while A24’s The Drama landed in third with $8.7 million. Newcomer You, Me & Tuscany also made noise in the top five, proving audiences are still showing up for both blockbuster animation and mid-budget comedies.
What’s driving Mario Galaxy’s staying power? Nostalgia, stunning animation, and family repeat viewings. Parents are bringing kids back for seconds (and thirds), and the film’s galactic scale — complete with gravity-defying set pieces and beloved Nintendo characters — has critics and audiences calling it a visual feast. Early word-of-mouth has been overwhelmingly positive, helping it hold better than many expected for a sequel.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Smashes Box Office Records Worldwide | NBCUNIVERSAL MEDIA
Credit: Universal Pictures / Illumination
2026 is already the strongest start to a box office year since the pandemic, with The Super Mario Galaxy Movie leading the charge.
Hollywood is breathing a sigh of relief. After years of post-pandemic recovery, 2026 is proving that theatrical experiences — especially colorful, crowd-pleasing family films — still have serious power. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie isn’t just a hit; it’s a reminder that when studios get the formula right, audiences will show up in droves.
Next weekend brings more international openings (Japan on April 24, Korea on April 29), which should give the film another big boost.
Mario is carrying the entire spring box office on his shell — but how high will he go? Drop your prediction in the comments: Will The Super Mario Galaxy Movie hit $500M domestic or $1 billion worldwide?
