‘Donkey Kong’ Movie Reportedly in Development, Potential Release Date Revealed
Nintendo’s famous ape, Donkey Kong, could be swinging onto the big screen soon. Sources suggest that a new animated Donkey Kong movie is in development, with Universal reportedly involved.
Industry insider MyTimeToShineHello claims the film is already in the works and could be released in 2028. Details about the plot or cast haven’t been shared yet.
SCOOP:
— MyTimeToShineHello (@MyTimeToShineH) November 14, 2025
The Donkey Kong movie is already in the works and is slated to be released in 2028! pic.twitter.com/Hecd8g62R1
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa previously gave some insight into the company’s approach to films during their annual general meeting. He said, “Rather than simply licensing our IP to film production companies, we are taking a proactive approach where Nintendo itself is deeply involved in production and makes investments as needed. This approach allows us to maintain a strong commitment to the quality of the final product.”
Furukawa didn’t mention Donkey Kong specifically, but he did confirm that other movie projects are already underway that haven’t been announced. With the recent leak about the Donkey Kong film, this fits into Nintendo’s strategy of careful planning and involvement in its franchises.
The timing also lines up with other Nintendo film projects, including The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which has a confirmed release date of April 3, 2026, and a live-action Legend of Zelda movie scheduled for May 2027. If Donkey Kong follows this pattern, fans could see him back in theaters sooner than expected.
What do you think about a Donkey Kong movie? Are you excited to see the ape swing into theaters? Share your thoughts in the comments.
