Nintendo and Illumination are officially bringing Mario back to the big screen. After the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie in 2023—which grossed over $1.36 billion worldwide, becoming the second-highest-grossing film of the year—a sequel was inevitable. Now, fans finally have a date: April 3, 2026 in the U.S., with Japan following on April 24, 2026.
Here’s everything we know (and what fans are speculating) about the highly anticipated sequel.
Release Date & Production
- U.S. release: April 3, 2026
- Japan release: April 24, 2026
- Production: Confirmed to be underway, with Illumination’s animation teams already working on the project.
The creative team remains largely unchanged:
- Producers: Shigeru Miyamoto (Nintendo) & Chris Meledandri (Illumination)
- Directors: Aaron Horvath & Michael Jelenic (returning from the first film)
- Writer: Matthew Fogel (who also wrote the first movie and Minions: The Rise of Gru)
Meledandri has promised that the sequel will “satisfy both devoted fans and newcomers,” while Miyamoto has teased that the film will expand the Mario universe far beyond what we saw the first time around.
Title & Story Hints
One of the biggest leaks came earlier this year when NBCUniversal accidentally revealed the title “Super Mario World” in a press release before quickly pulling it down. While unconfirmed, the title makes sense:
- The post-credits scene of the first film teased Yoshi’s arrival, suggesting he will play a major role.
- A “World” subtitle would align with the classic Super Mario World game, which introduced Yoshi as a core character.
So far, no official synopsis has been released, but insiders suggest the story will be a “bright and fun expansion of Mario’s world”.
Returning Cast (Likely)
While not officially locked in, it’s widely expected that the original cast will return:
- Chris Pratt as Mario
- Charlie Day as Luigi
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach
- Jack Black as Bowser
- Keegan-Michael Key as Toad
Key has already teased that the sequel will feature “really deep cuts”—meaning obscure Mario characters could appear. This has fueled fan speculation about Daisy, Wario, Waluigi, and even Bowser Jr.
One uncertainty: Sebastian Maniscalco’s Foreman Spike. The actor has said he hasn’t been contacted yet, joking that his character “didn’t even get a toy.”
What Fans Can Expect
- Yoshi’s debut: Almost guaranteed after the post-credits tease.
- New worlds: Fans speculate the movie could draw inspiration from Super Mario Galaxy or even venture into Luigi’s Mansion territory.
- Deeper Nintendo ties: Illumination and Nintendo may use this sequel to test the waters for a broader Nintendo Cinematic Universe. Rumors already swirl about potential Legend of Zelda and Donkey Kong spin-offs.
- Tone: Expect another mix of slapstick comedy, action, and nostalgia—something that worked perfectly in the first film.
Why This Matters
The first Super Mario Bros. Movie wasn’t just a hit—it redefined video game adaptations. It outgrossed Frozen II on opening weekend, became the biggest animated debut ever at the time, and proved that video game films can compete with Marvel and Disney at the box office.
With the sequel, Nintendo and Illumination aren’t just making another movie—they’re building a potential franchise empire. If “Super Mario World” delivers, we could be looking at the start of a Nintendo Cinematic Universe to rival Pixar or Marvel.
Quick Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | April 3, 2026 (U.S.), April 24, 2026 (Japan) |
| Possible Title | Super Mario World (accidentally leaked) |
| Production Team | Miyamoto & Meledandri producing; Horvath & Jelenic directing; Fogel writing |
| Cast | Pratt, Day, Taylor-Joy, Black, Key likely returning |
| Fan Appeal | Yoshi’s debut, “deep cut” characters, possible Daisy/Wario/Waluigi |
| Tone | Bright, fun, nostalgic, and expansive |
✨ In short: The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2 (possibly titled Super Mario World) hits theaters on April 3, 2026. Expect Yoshi, deeper Nintendo lore, and a bigger, brighter expansion of the Mushroom Kingdom.
Fan Theories & Speculation
With Nintendo keeping the plot tightly under wraps, fans have filled the gap with their own theories about what The Super Mario Bros. Movie 2 might explore. Here are some of the most popular (and intriguing) ideas circulating online:
- Wario & Waluigi as Villains
Many fans believe the sequel could introduce Mario’s mischievous rivals, Wario and Waluigi. Their chaotic personalities would offer a fresh dynamic compared to Bowser’s more traditional villainy. Jack Black has even said he’d love to see Bowser team up with Wario in a future film. - Super Mario Galaxy Inspiration
Some speculate the movie could take Mario and friends into outer space, borrowing from Super Mario Galaxy. This would allow the filmmakers to expand into dazzling new environments, introduce Rosalina, and explore the Lumas—beloved characters who could bring both humor and heart. - Luigi’s Mansion Side Plot
Given Luigi’s timid personality and the popularity of the Luigi’s Mansion games, fans think the sequel might give Luigi a spooky subplot. Ghosts like King Boo could make an appearance, offering a balance of comedy and light scares. - Princess Daisy’s Debut
Another common theory is that Daisy, Princess Peach’s counterpart from Sarasaland, could finally make her big-screen debut. This would add more female representation to the cast and open the door to exploring another kingdom beyond the Mushroom Kingdom. - Bowser Jr. Rising
With Bowser imprisoned at the end of the first movie, some predict that Bowser Jr. could step up as the new antagonist, possibly trying to rescue his father or prove himself as a worthy villain.
These theories may just be fan speculation, but they highlight the enormous potential for Nintendo and Illumination to expand the Mario cinematic universe in bold new directions.
While You Wait – Watch Inception On Streaming
Looking for the latest on where to stream Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending thriller “Inception”? As of March 2025, you have several options to watch Leonardo DiCaprio navigate through dreams within dreams. HBO Max has recently added Inception to its streaming library, making it easily accessible for subscribers as of early 2025.
For those without a HBO Max subscription, you’re not out of luck. The film is also available to rent or purchase through multiple digital platforms including Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Rental options typically give you 30 days to start watching and 48 hours to finish once you’ve begun.
Inception has moved between various streaming services over the years since its release, but its addition to HBO Max marks good news for fans who’ve been waiting to rewatch this complex thriller or experience it for the first time. The film’s unique premise and stunning visuals make it worth seeking out, regardless of which platform you choose.
As of now, you can watch Inception on the following streaming services:
- Max (formerly HBO Max): The movie is available for streaming with a subscription.
- Hulu: It’s available on Hulu, likely with a subscription.
- Sling TV: You can stream it on Sling TV.
You can also rent or buy Inception on various platforms, including:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies
- YouTube
- Fandango at Home
- Spectrum On Demand
- Plex
Key Takeaways
- Inception is currently available to stream on HBO Max as of early 2025.
- Viewers can also rent or purchase the film through Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home.
- Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio offers viewers 48 hours to finish the movie once started when renting digitally.
Streaming Platforms for Inception
“Inception,” Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending 2010 thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is available on several streaming platforms. The availability may change over time as streaming rights shift between services.
Subscription-Based Services
Currently, “Inception” isn’t available on Netflix in most regions, despite being in their catalog previously. The film occasionally appears on HBO Max as part of their rotating Warner Bros. collection, but it isn’t consistently available there.
According to recent information, Apple TV+ has temporarily added “Inception” to its library for subscribers. This is noteworthy since Apple TV+ rarely features older non-original films. The service offers a free trial period for new users who want to watch the movie without committing to a subscription.
The availability on subscription platforms changes frequently due to licensing agreements. Some services may offer the film with different language options and subtitles to accommodate international viewers.
Rental or Purchase Options
For those who prefer on-demand access, several digital platforms offer “Inception” as a rental or purchase option. Apple TV (separate from Apple TV+ subscription) provides the film for rent or purchase in various quality options including 4K.
Google Play Movies also lists “Inception” in their catalog for rental or purchase. The pricing typically ranges from $3.99-$4.99 for rentals and $9.99-$14.99 for permanent ownership, depending on the video quality selected.
Amazon Prime Video offers “Inception” as a rental or purchase option rather than including it with Prime subscription. Fandango At Home (previously known as FandangoNOW) is another platform where viewers can rent or buy the film digitally.
Digital purchases provide the benefit of permanent access to the film regardless of streaming service availability changes.
Exploring Themes and Cast of Inception
Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending film Inception captivated audiences with its complex narrative about dreams within dreams. The film combines psychological depth with an all-star cast to deliver a unique cinematic experience.
Themes of Dreams and Guilt
Dreams serve as the central metaphor in Inception, representing both escape and prison. Cobb, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, navigates through layers of dreams while carrying the weight of his wife Mal’s death. This guilt manifests as projections within the dreamscape, creating dangerous situations for his team.
The film explores how ideas can be planted and grow within the subconscious, much like inception itself. This concept raises questions about reality, memory, and how we process emotions.
Nolan uses dreams to examine deeper themes of regret and redemption. The totem—Cobb’s spinning top—becomes a powerful symbol of the thin line between reality and illusion.
The Ensemble Cast
Leonardo DiCaprio leads as Dom Cobb, bringing emotional depth to the character’s struggle with guilt and desire to return home. His performance anchors the film’s emotional core.
Ellen Page (now Elliot Page) plays Ariadne, the architect who designs the dream worlds. Joseph Gordon-Levitt portrays Arthur, Cobb’s precise and loyal point man who executes a memorable zero-gravity fight scene.
The supporting cast includes:
- Marion Cotillard as Mal, Cobb’s deceased wife
- Tom Hardy as Eames, the witty forger
- Ken Watanabe as Saito, the businessman who hires Cobb
- Cillian Murphy as Robert Fischer, their target
Each actor brings nuance to their role, creating a balanced ensemble that supports the complex narrative.
Cinematic Style and Direction
Nolan’s distinctive directorial style shines through Inception’s visual storytelling. He combines practical effects with CGI to create memorable scenes like folding Paris streets and the rotating hotel corridor.
The film’s layered narrative structure mirrors its themes, with dreams nested within dreams. Nolan, known for his work on The Dark Knight and Memento, uses cross-cutting between dream levels to build tension and maintain clarity despite the complex plot.
Hans Zimmer’s powerful score enhances the film’s emotional impact. The distinctive “BWAAAH” sound became iconic in movie trailers following Inception’s release.
Nolan’s attention to detail extends to the film’s color palette, using cooler tones for deeper dream levels. His preference for IMAX cameras and practical stunts gives Inception a tangible quality despite its surreal subject matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding where to watch Inception can be confusing with the film moving between different streaming platforms. Here are answers to common questions about where to find this popular Christopher Nolan film in March 2025.
Which streaming services currently offer Inception for viewing?
As of March 2025, Inception is available on Apple TV+. The film rotates between major streaming platforms throughout the year.
Some services offer the movie as part of their subscription, while others provide it as a rental or purchase option.
Is Inception available on Netflix as of the latest update?
Inception is only available on Netflix in select regions worldwide. The availability varies by country due to licensing agreements.
Viewers should check their local Netflix catalog to confirm if the film is currently streaming in their region.
Can I watch Inception on Amazon Prime Video?
Amazon Prime Video offers Inception as a rental or purchase option rather than including it in the Prime subscription.
Prices typically range from $3.99 for rental to $14.99 for purchase, depending on whether you select SD or HD quality.
Has HBO Max included Inception in its library?
Inception recently left HBO Max’s streaming library. The film occasionally returns to the platform as Warner Bros. movies often rotate through their streaming service.
Subscribers should check the current HBO Max catalog or use the search function to verify availability.
Where can I watch Inception online for free?
Tubi offers some Christopher Nolan films with advertisements, though Inception’s availability on free platforms is limited.
The most reliable way to watch Inception for free is through free trials of streaming services currently hosting the film, such as Apple TV+.
How can I find Inception’s full movie for streaming?
Use streaming search engines like JustWatch or Reelgood to locate which platform currently offers Inception.
These services track the movie across multiple platforms and provide updated information on where to stream, rent, or purchase the film.
Setting price alerts on digital storefronts can help viewers find deals when the film goes on sale across various platforms.
