Nintendo's cinema dreams: a universe or just fun?

The release of Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie has ignited a fresh wave of speculation: is Nintendo quietly building a cinematic empire akin to the Marvel Cinematic Universe? While the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie certainly paved the way, and The Legend of Zelda looms on the horizon for 2027, the company’s approach appears decidedly less structured, and perhaps, far more enjoyable.

Miyamoto’s playful philosophy

Shigeru Miyamoto, the mastermind behind Nintendo’s film endeavors, has repeatedly dismissed the notion of a grand, ten-year roadmap. Instead, he champions a philosophy rooted in a simple question: “Is it fun?” This playful approach, he states, dictates whether a project receives the green light. It's a refreshing departure from the meticulously planned universes that dominate modern Hollywood, and a testament to Nintendo’s enduring commitment to playful innovation.

But don't dismiss the potential entirely. Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie is reportedly brimming with cameos, some so unexpected they even surprised Miyamoto himself. He’s playfully challenged audiences to catalog every appearance, acknowledging the sheer richness of the Mario universe. The film’s density of references reveals a creative wellspring far deeper than many initially realized.

The Smash Bros. Exception The dream of seeing a Super Smash Bros. movie—a chaotic, glorious collision of Nintendo’s iconic characters—remains just that: a dream. Miyamoto has definitively ruled out the possibility, stating that the uniting of so many disparate personalities doesn’t align with his vision. “Unlike Smash Bros., I don’t think you’re going to have a situation where all the characters come together,” he explained in a recent interview.

Pikmin's inevitable rise

While a sprawling cinematic universe might not be on the cards, Nintendo isn’t shy about cross-pollinating its franchises. Miyamoto has declared the inclusion of Pikmin in any Nintendo product—including films—a “mission,” not a request. This subtle but significant declaration suggests a future where even the most niche Nintendo properties could find their way into the spotlight.

Ultimately, Nintendo's path in cinema feels less like a calculated strategy and more like an organic exploration. Whether these standalone films eventually converge into something larger remains to be seen, but for now, the focus remains firmly on delivering entertaining experiences, one delightful cameo at a time.