Nintendo and Illumination have finally given fans what they have been waiting for. A brand-new trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is out, and it confirms some massive fan theories while raising excitement to a whole new level.
The biggest highlight is simple and loud. Yoshi is officially in the movie.
After months of speculation and online leaks, Nintendo dropped the trailer in late January 2026, instantly setting social media on fire. The footage gives a deeper look at the story, new characters, and the colorful space worlds inspired by the beloved Super Mario Galaxy games.
Here is everything confirmed so far, without the hype fluff.
Yoshi Makes His Long-Awaited Big Screen Debut
The trailer opens with Mario and Luigi exploring a strange underground cave. That is where fans get the moment they have been waiting for since the post-credits tease in The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Yoshi finally appears.
The green dinosaur is shown helping Mario and Luigi during an early action sequence. In one scene, Yoshi even uses the Super Scope 6, a fun callback for longtime Nintendo fans. While Yoshi does not speak in the trailer, his personality shines through with expressive animation and classic movements.
Nintendo has not yet revealed who is voicing Yoshi, keeping that detail tightly under wraps.
Rosalina and More Fan-Favorite Characters Confirmed
Another major reveal is Princess Rosalina, a central character from the Super Mario Galaxy games. She appears briefly but memorably, floating through a cosmic setting that strongly resembles the Comet Observatory.
Rosalina is voiced by Brie Larson, a casting choice that has already sparked discussion online.
The trailer also confirms the appearance of several classic characters, including Birdo and Lakitu. A massive dinosaur-like enemy is teased as well, hinting at large-scale action scenes and boss battles inspired by the games.
These reveals suggest the movie is leaning heavily into deep Nintendo lore rather than playing it safe.
A Bigger, Bolder Space Adventure
Visually, the film looks more ambitious than its predecessor. The trailer showcases multiple space-themed worlds, gravity-defying platforms, and glowing galaxies that feel lifted straight from the original games.
The animation quality appears polished, with smoother action and more detailed environments. According to reports, the movie has already completed animation and is currently in post-production, focusing on sound design and final edits.
This confirms the project is well on track for its theatrical debut.
Release Date Moves Up for Global Launch
One of the quieter but important updates is the release date change.
Nintendo has moved the U.S. release date forward to April 1, 2026, two days earlier than previously announced. The shift is believed to be part of a global alignment strategy to reduce spoilers and maximize opening weekend buzz.
Japan is scheduled to receive the movie later in April, maintaining Nintendo’s traditional staggered rollout.
Returning Cast Brings Familiar Voices Back
Most of the main cast from the first film is returning, keeping continuity intact. Confirmed voices include:
- Chris Pratt as Mario
- Charlie Day as Luigi
- Anya Taylor-JoyJack Black as Bowser
Bowser Jr. is also confirmed to appear, voiced by Benny Safdie. His role appears to be larger this time, suggesting more focus on Bowser’s family dynamics.
Same Creative Team Returns
Behind the scenes, Nintendo and Illumination have kept the same creative leadership. The movie is directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, with a screenplay by Matthew Fogel.
Music is once again handled by Brian Tyler, who is reportedly expanding the orchestral score to match the epic scale of the galaxy-themed setting.
Nintendo’s close involvement continues, ensuring the movie stays faithful to the franchise.
Why Fans Are So Excited This Time
Unlike the first film, which focused on introducing Mario to new audiences, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie seems designed for longtime fans.
From Rosalina’s arrival to space-based gameplay references, the trailer signals a deeper dive into Nintendo’s universe. Online reactions praise the visuals, character choices, and the decision to embrace the Galaxy era fully.
Many fans believe this sequel could set the stage for future Nintendo movies centered on other franchises.
What Happens Next
Nintendo has not announced when the full trailer or final voice cast details will be revealed. However, with the release just months away, more promotional material is expected soon.
Merchandise tie-ins, soundtrack previews, and possibly a second trailer could arrive before the end of February.
For now, one thing is clear. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and more nostalgic than anyone expected.
If you are a Mario fan, this one is going to be hard to ignore.
Stay tuned for more updates, and let us know in the comments what you think about Yoshi’s big debut. Would you watch this on day one?
