Super Mario Galaxy Film Breaks Records as 2026's Top US Debut

The Super Mario Galaxy film has secured the top spot for the highest-grossing US debut in 2026. With Universal's Illumination and Nintendo at the helm of production, the movie amassed an impressive $372.6 million worldwide and $190.8 million in the US during its initial five-day run. As reported by Deadline, it achieved a notable $34.5 million on its opening day, surpassing the $31.7 million earned by The Super Mario Bros. Movie. This milestone solidifies Galaxy as the only animated franchise to boast two titles that have opened above $350 million globally. In comparison, The Super Mario Bros. earned $204.6 million in the US and $377 million worldwide during its opening weekend. Galaxy now holds the distinction of having the second-largest global opening for a video game adaptation and the second-best opening for an Illumination film, both of which are surpassed only by The Super Mario Bros. Movie. According to NBCUniversal, "The Super Mario Galaxy movie's record-breaking launch cements the powerhouse partnership between Nintendo and Illumination as one of the most successful collaborations in modern animation." They added, "As the characters' galactic adventure continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the film is well-positioned to maintain its box office dominance and cultural impact in the coming weeks." The sequel was officially announced by Nintendo in September 2025, following the success of the first film, with its first trailer debuting during a Nintendo Direct in November 2025.