Donkey Kong Is Getting His Own Movie

"The Super Mario Galaxy" movie is not the only new film project from the "Mario" universe! According to industry insider Daniel Richtman, film distributor Universal is actually developing a standalone "Donkey Kong" movie.

The first hint surfaced back in July, with a copyright filing by Nintendo and Universal. The project was officially classified as a "motion picture," which strongly points to a film for the big screen. Still, no official details have been revealed so far.

The decision to give Donkey Kong his own adventure doesn't come as a surprise. The iconic character already had a prominent appearance in "The Super Mario Bros. Movie". However, insiders believe that the "Donkey Kong" movie is unlikely to hit theaters before 2027 at the earliest.

The most famous characters from the Super Mario universe: a journey through Nintendo's colorful world full of heroes, villains and legends

For more than 40 years, the Super Mario universe has delighted millions of players around the world. What began as a simple arcade game in 1981 has developed into one of the biggest and most influential brands in video game history. In addition to Mario himself, it is above all the numerous iconic characters that make Nintendo's world so vibrant. From heroic plumbers to gruesome villains – each of them has their own story, personality and loyal fan base.

Mario: the plumber who became a hero

The most famous character in the entire Nintendo universe is undoubtedly Mario. He originally appeared in 1981 in Donkey Kong under the name "Jumpman", before making his worldwide breakthrough in 1985 in "Super Mario Bros." on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). With his red cap, distinctive moustache and blue dungarees, he became a symbol of video game culture.

Mario is the classic hero – brave, friendly and always ready to save the Mushroom Kingdom. His most important ability is his extraordinary jump, which he uses to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles. Over the years, Mario has proven in countless genres that he is more than just a platformer hero: whether in kart racing, tennis, golf or epic role-playing games – Mario always remains at the heart of the Nintendo universe.

Luigi: the eternal brother in the shadows

Mario's younger brother Luigi was originally only introduced as a second player, but he quickly developed into a character in his own right with his very own fan base. With his green cap, his slightly taller stature and his shy but lovable nature, Luigi is the likeable underdog.

While Mario boldly charges forward, Luigi often hesitates – but when it comes down to it, he rises above himself. This is particularly evident in the Luigi's Mansion series, in which he roams through haunted houses as a ghost hunter with his vacuum cleaner "Schreckweg". Luigi stands for courage despite fear –and that is exactly what makes him so human.

Princess Peach: the strong ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom

Princess Peach Toadstool, or Peach for short, has been a central part of the series since the very beginning. She has often been kidnapped by villain Bowser, but she has long been more than just a classic damsel in distress. In games such as Super Princess Peach or Super Smash Bros. she shows that she is self-confident, clever and battle-hardened.

With her pink dress and crown, Peach symbolizes both grace and strength. As ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom, she ensures peace and harmony, supports Mario on his missions and proves that she is one of the most versatile female characters in the video game world.

Bowser: the king of the Koopas

No hero is complete without his arch-enemy – and in Mario's case, that's Bowser, the mighty King of the Koopas. Since Super Mario Bros. (1985) , he has embodied the classic blend of menace and humor. With his fiery personality, gigantic stature and distinctive roar, Bowser is the epitome of an iconic video game villain.

But Bowser isn't just evil for evil's sake. In many games, he even shows a softer side – for example as the worried father of his son Bowser Jr. or as an involuntary ally in Super Mario RPG. It is precisely this complexity that makes him one of the most fascinating characters in the series.

Yoshi: the loyal dinosaur friend

The green dinosaur Yoshi made his debut in "Super Mario World" (1990) and immediately became a fan favorite. As Mario's animal companion, he is not only cute, but also useful: he can devour enemies, lay eggs and even fly for a short time. Yoshi embodies pure joie de vivre. His own adventures, for example in Yoshi's Island or Yoshi's Crafted World, show a colorful, child-friendly world full of creativity. He is a symbol of fun and friendship – and for many players an indispensable part of the Mario cosmos.

Toad: the loyal servant

Toad, the little creature with the mushroom head, is one of Mario and Peach's oldest companions. As a citizen of the Mushroom Kingdom, Toad is always ready to help, even if he often seems panicky when Bowser attacks again. In games like Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, however, he shows courage and a spirit of discovery. Toad stands for the simple but loyal inhabitants of the Mushroom Kingdom – and reminds us that even the smallest characters can play a big role.

Donkey Kong: the king of the jungle

Donkey Kong is one of the pioneers of video game history. In his very first appearance, he was Mario's opponent, but he later developed into a hero in his own right. With his enormous strength, his humor and his family – including Diddy, Dixie and Cranky Kong – Donkey Kong lives in his very own universe of jungle adventures, bananas and rhythms. He is the symbol of Nintendo's transformation: from a simple arcade opponent to a celebrated protagonist with his own game series.

Bowser Jr.: the ambitious son

Bowser Jr. was first introduced in "Super Mario Sunshine" (2002). He is the son of the great Bowser and emulates his father in everything. He often acts out of a childish desire to win his approval. Despite his cheeky nature, he has charm and wit – especially in more recent games, where he occasionally even works together with Mario.

Wario: the greedy anti-hero

Wario is Mario's greedy and chaotic antagonist – and also one of the most entertaining characters in the Nintendo universe. His name is a mixture of "Mario" and the Japanese word warui, which means "evil". Since his first appearance in "Super Mario Land 2: Six Golden Coins" (1992), Wario has been known for his selfishness, his power and his irrepressible hunger for gold and garlic.

Wario is the exact opposite of Mario: loud, rude, selfish – but still incredibly charming. In his own series, Wario Land and WarioWare, he shines with crazy ideas, mini-games and humor. He is proof that even villains can become crowd favorites.

Waluigi: the forgotten trickster

Waluigi, introduced in Mario Tennis (2000), is Luigi's spindly opponent. With his purple clothes, his pointed moustache and his characteristic "WAAAH!", he embodies the envious outsider.

While Wario wants money and power, Waluigi seeks recognition above all else. He is the eternal underdog – ambitious but unlucky. To this day, many fans wish that Waluigi would finally be given a bigger role in a main game. His popularity is based precisely on this: he is the anti-hero that nobody wanted, but everyone loves.

Conclusion: A world full of personality

The Super Mario universe is far more than a series of platform games – it's a living, cultural phenomenon. Every character, whether hero or villain, contributes to the depth of this world with their own characteristics and emotions. Mario stands for courage, Luigi for humanity, Peach for strength, Bowser for ambition, Yoshi for friendship and Donkey Kong for a sense of adventure. Together they form a universe that has inspired generations – and whose popularity remains unbroken.