No slow start here—The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has blasted off with a massive $34 million opening day, instantly setting the tone for what looks like one of the year’s biggest box office runs.
And the key detail? That number came without preview shows, making it even more impressive.
A Record-Breaking Start Right Out of the Gate
With this opening, the film has already claimed two major milestones. It’s now the biggest opening day of 2026 so far, overtaking Project Hail Mary, and also the highest-ever Wednesday opening in April, beating its own predecessor, The Super Mario Bros Movie.
That tells you one thing clearly—this franchise isn’t slowing down.
Slightly Lower Forecasts, Still Massive
Early projections suggest the film could land around $128 million over 3 days and close to $186 million over 5 days domestically.
Yes, that’s slightly below the first film’s record-breaking debut—but context matters. Those are still huge numbers by any standard and enough to make it one of Illumination’s biggest launches ever.
If the trend holds, it could also become the biggest opening weekend of the year in North America.
Audience Loves It, Critics Not So Much
The reaction split is pretty familiar.
Audiences are clearly enjoying the film, with a strong 91% score, while critics remain less impressed, currently sitting around 44%.
But if history has shown anything, especially with the first Mario film, it’s that audience approval matters more—and right now, that’s working in the sequel’s favor.
Franchise Power Is Driving the Numbers
What’s really pushing Galaxy Movie is brand strength.
Mario isn’t just a character—it’s a multi-generational icon. Combine that with Illumination’s track record and Nintendo’s global pull, and you’ve got a formula that consistently brings families into theatres.
If the current pace continues, the film could join elite animated franchises like Toy Story, Shrek, and Minions—all of which have multiple films opening above $100 million domestically.
The Road Ahead Looks Strong
The real test begins over the weekend.
If the film follows a similar pattern to the 2023 release—with a Friday spike and strong Saturday numbers—it could push closer to that $200 million five-day mark.
And with schools off and holiday footfall expected, the timing is working perfectly in its favor.
Big Picture
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie may not completely outdo its predecessor’s historic start, but it doesn’t need to.
Right now, it’s already doing what matters—pulling in massive crowds, setting records, and proving that this franchise still has serious box office power.
And if the momentum holds, this could easily turn into another billion-dollar ride.
