Universal Pursues Rights for Metroid Movie in Nintendo Cinematic Universe

LOS ANGELES, CA — Exciting rumors are swirling around the cinematic world as Universal Pictures is reportedly seeking the rights to develop a Metroid movie. This potential film would join the expanding universe of Nintendo properties, particularly the Mario Cinematic Universe.

The news broke on November 28, 2025, when entertainment insider MyTimeToShineHello (MTTSH) shared on social media, “SCOOP: Universal is trying to secure the rights for a Metroid movie to add it to their planned ‘Mario Cinematic Universe.’” This marks the first notable attempt to link Metroid to a larger cinematic narrative since the early 2000s, when Lion Rock Productions initially explored a Metroid film.

The previous development efforts, which included notable director John Woo and a focus on protagonist Samus Aran‘s battles against Metroids and Mother Brain, fell silent after 2007 due to creative disagreements with Nintendo. Producer Brad Foxhoven noted at the time that Nintendo preferred to maintain control over Samus’s story.

In recent years, several actors and directors have expressed interest in bringing the beloved character of Samus Aran to life on the big screen. Actress Ronda Rousey stated her admiration, saying, “I’ve always wanted to be Samus.” Meanwhile, director Jordon Vogt-Roberts and actress Brie Larson have publicly pitched their visions for a Metroid adaptation, with Larson stating her enthusiasm: “I want to make that movie.”

The prospect of a Metroid film signals a potential turning point for Nintendo’s film strategy, moving from family-friendly fare toward darker, more complex stories that could attract a broader audience. If Universal secures the rights, this project may redefine the landscape of Nintendo’s cinematic endeavors.

This new direction reflects an evolution in Nintendo’s approach following the commercial success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which has prompted the company to explore a wider array of its iconic franchises. However, further details about the Metroid movie or its intended release date have yet to be disclosed.