The Possibility of a Donkey Kong Solo Movie Gains Momentum
The possibility of Donkey Kong — the iconic gorilla from Nintendo’s video game universe — finally starring in his own solo movie is gaining traction. Recent copyright filings suggest that Nintendo Studios LLC and Universal Pictures are working together on an unannounced film project, potentially titled “Untitled Donkey Kong Project.”
A New Movie on the Horizon?
In June 2025, a U.S. copyright application was filed for a Donkey Kong-centered movie, listing both Nintendo and Universal as involved parties. This kind of registration is often a strong indication that serious production is underway.
The timing follows the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, released in 2023, which grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Donkey Kong played a major role in the film, voiced by Seth Rogen, who has since expressed interest in reprising the role for a standalone feature.
Nintendo’s Expanding Multimedia Strategy
This potential movie aligns with Nintendo’s broader strategy to expand its intellectual properties beyond gaming:
- Theme Parks: “Donkey Kong Country,” a dedicated themed area, has already opened at Super Nintendo World in Japan and Florida, drawing huge crowds and fan excitement.
- New Games: Donkey Kong Bananza, a highly anticipated title, is set to launch on July 17, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 — further boosting the character’s visibility across platforms.
- Other Films: Alongside Mario and a live-action Zelda film currently in development, this project strengthens Nintendo’s commitment to building a cinematic universe based on its beloved franchises.
From Legal Rivals to Creative Partners
What makes this collaboration even more fascinating is the history between Nintendo and Universal. In 1983, Universal sued Nintendo, claiming Donkey Kong was an unauthorized copy of King Kong. Nintendo won the lawsuit in a landmark legal decision.
As a gesture of gratitude, Nintendo honored its lawyer, John Kirby, by naming one of its future characters — Kirby — after him, and even gifted him a boat named “Donkey Kong.” Decades later, the two companies are now working together to bring the gorilla to the big screen.
What to Expect from the Film
While no official title or plot details have been released, all signs point to an animated film, likely continuing the successful partnership with Illumination — the studio behind The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Fans are hoping for Seth Rogen’s return as the voice of Donkey Kong, given the popularity of his previous performance. The film is expected to combine action, humor, and vibrant animation while staying true to the original games’ spirit.
There is also high anticipation that the movie will introduce fan-favorite characters like Funky Kong, Rambi the rhino, and possibly even Baby Pauline — adding depth and fan service to the story.
Why Now?
The timing couldn’t be better. The success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie paved the way for spin-offs and deeper storytelling within the Nintendo universe. With a major new Donkey Kong game on the way, theme park expansions, and a multimedia push in full swing, a solo movie would ride the wave of renewed popularity.
This multimedia strategy not only expands Nintendo’s entertainment footprint but also strengthens its brand — boosting game sales, merchandise revenue, and park attendance — a win on all fronts.
Conclusion
Although there has been no official announcement yet, the signs are clear: copyright filings, new game releases, expanded theme park attractions, and fan enthusiasm all point to the likelihood of a Donkey Kong solo movie becoming a reality.
Now, fans around the world eagerly await what could be Donkey Kong’s long-overdue starring moment on the silver screen.
