Nintendo and Universal Pictures Register Donkey Kong Movie Project With US Copyright Office

Nintendo and Universal Pictures have taken a significant step toward expanding their blockbuster video game franchises into film, as the two companies recently filed a copyright document for an “Untitled Donkey Kong Motion Picture” with the US Copyright Office.

This development highlights an ongoing collaboration between Nintendo Studios and Universal Pictures as they look to bring yet another iconic Nintendo character to the big screen. The document, officially submitted under the Donkey Kong name, indicates that Universal Pictures and Nintendo Studios are formal partners on this new cinematic venture.

The filing lists May 9 and May 27, 2025, as key contract dates, underscoring the fact that the project is in an early developmental phase.

While details regarding storyline, cast, or release date remain unannounced, the copyright submission marks a crucial milestone in adapting the beloved Donkey Kong franchise into a feature film. This news follows the outstanding commercial success of the Super Mario Bros.

Movie, a joint project between Nintendo, Universal Pictures, and Illumination.

That animated film shattered box office records for video game adaptations and has already spawned a sequel currently in the works.

In a recent statement, executives from Nintendo and Universal reaffirmed their commitment to quality and close collaboration, noting that their partnership on Super Mario Bros.

paved the way for future film endeavors tied to Nintendo’s storied intellectual properties. Nintendo’s foray into feature films is not limited to Universal Pictures.

The company is also collaborating with Sony Pictures for its first-ever motion picture based on The Legend of Zelda, further signaling Nintendo’s intent to bring its biggest franchises to worldwide audiences through cinematic storytelling.

These moves come during a period of increased synergy between Nintendo’s core hardware and software business—highlighted by the enduring success of the Nintendo Switch—and a growing appetite in Hollywood for prestige video game adaptations. As the Donkey Kong movie project is still in its initial stages, more concrete information is expected to emerge in the coming months or even years.

For now, industry watchers and longtime fans can look forward to Nintendo Studios and Universal Pictures building on their previous accomplishments.

The registration of the Donkey Kong film underscores the rising influence of video game properties in mainstream entertainment and sets the stage for yet another high-profile partnership in the world of video game movies.

Donkey Kong Nintendo Mario Super Mario Bros. Movie US Super Mario Universal Xbox Series X|S Super Mario Bros Mario Bros Universal Pictures Nintendo Studios Illumination Sony Pictures The Legend of Zelda