Nintendo Plans to Replace Chris Pratt, Says Bombshell Report
Nintendo is making significant strides in expanding its cinematic universe beyond the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The upcoming sequel to the 2023 blockbuster is set for release in 2026, but the company appears to be reevaluating its reliance on Chris Pratt as the voice of Mario for future projects.
Nintendo’s Evolving Film Strategy
After years of cautiously managing its intellectual properties, Nintendo has embraced collaborations with Hollywood, achieving substantial box office success. The Super Mario Bros. Movie has garnered over $1.3 billion worldwide, indicating a lucrative partnership with Universal.
As Nintendo looks to the future, it is spearheading new ventures, including the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, directed by Wes Ball. This marks a departure from solely centering on Mario’s universe.
The Potential Shift Away from Chris Pratt
Although Chris Pratt is confirmed to return for Mario’s sequel, indications suggest that Nintendo may be moving away from casting him in future projects. Instead of focusing exclusively on Mario and characters from the Mushroom Kingdom, Nintendo aims to explore its extensive game library.
- The next major project could be a Metroid film, signifying a shift in genre and narrative.
- Metroid offers a darker, sci-fi driven storyline that contrasts sharply with the vibrant, whimsical Mario universe.
Building a Broader Cinematic Universe
There are theories that Nintendo and Universal are working towards creating a Marvel-style interconnected universe. This includes developing the storylines of various characters like Mario, Link, and Samus Aran, potentially leading to a film akin to Super Smash Bros.
However, complications arise with the separate live-action Zelda project, which is under Sony’s jurisdiction. This split raises questions about how Nintendo will unify its character narratives in a larger cinematic framework.
What Lies Ahead for Nintendo?
As Nintendo navigates this new territory, the potential creation of a Metroid movie signals a significant tonal change for the company. Unlike Mario’s light-hearted adventures, Metroid’s darker themes may redefine how audiences perceive Nintendo as a film studio.
Moving forward, Nintendo seems poised to diversify its portfolio, stepping away from a single star narrative embodied by Chris Pratt. By exploring stories of characters like Samus and Link, Nintendo aims to craft a rich and varied filmography, nurturing the longevity of its franchises beyond nostalgia.
In conclusion, as Nintendo prepares for the future, the upcoming sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie may serve as a transitional phase, opening the door for innovation and expansion in its cinematic endeavors.
