Super Mario Galaxy keeps pulling in big crowds and breaking records

It's still a Super Mario world - and everyone else is just visiting. The animated sequel Super Mario Galaxy has now crossed $300 million at the U.S. box office and doubled that with over $600 million in global earnings, according to studio estimates released Friday. The film, a follow-up to the wildly successful 2023 Super Mario Bros. Movie, has held onto audiences with its cosmic visuals, nostalgic charm, and broad appeal across age groups.

On its second Friday in theaters, the film added $17.5 million domestically, showing only a modest drop from its opening weekend. That kind of staying power is rare and signals strong audience satisfaction. Universal and Illumination, the studios behind the project, say international markets - especially Japan, the U.K., and Mexico - have been key drivers of the film's global momentum.

Elsewhere at the box office, the new romantic comedy You, Me & Tuscany opened with $3.1 million on its first day. While not a blockbuster start, the film - which follows a love story set against the backdrop of rural Italy and centers Black leads - is finding its footing with targeted audiences. Early reviews praise its warmth and scenic direction, and analysts say it could build steady momentum through word of mouth.

Meanwhile, Project Hail Mary, the sci-fi adventure starring Ryan Gosling, is approaching the $300 million mark worldwide. Though it launched with less fanfare than Mario, the film has drawn consistent crowds, particularly among older teens and adults looking for smart, hopeful sci-fi. Its climb reflects a broader trend: audiences are rewarding well-made genre films, whether animated or live-action.

The success of Super Mario Galaxy also underscores how far video game adaptations have come. Once seen as risky bets, titles like this one - along with recent hits like The Last of Us and Portal: Reboot - are proving that faithful, creatively bold adaptations can resonate widely. Analysts say the Mario franchise, in particular, benefits from decades of built-in recognition and emotional connection.

Not every film is riding the same wave. While You, Me & Tuscany didn't explode out of the gate, industry watchers note that rom-coms, especially those centered on underrepresented stories, often grow over time. Its performance will be watched closely as studios look to diversify their slates beyond superhero and animation franchises.

With Super Mario Galaxy showing no signs of slowing and Project Hail Mary gaining steam, the spring box office is shaping up to be one of the most balanced in years - mixing family fare, adult sci-fi, and romantic storytelling. That variety, many say, is a good sign for an industry still rebuilding post-pandemic habits.