The Super Mario Bros. Movie is this year’s biggest film, animated or not, and the second-biggest animated movie in history. Because of this, there have been talks of a sequel and maybe even some spinoffs. More than that, the film’s success has led to speculations that Nintendo, the company that owns the Mario IP, will adapt some of its other properties for the big screen, including Legend of Zelda.

Last week, industry insider Jeff Sneider revealed during an episode of The Hot Mic podcast with John Rocha that Nintendo and Illumination were working out a deal to develop a Legend of Zelda movie. However, Illumination’s CEO, Chris Meledandri, has come out to imply that Sneider has it all wrong.

During an appearance at the Annecy International Animation Festival, Meledandri told TheWrap, "I don’t know where that came from [rumors of a Zelda adaptation]. I mean I can understand how people would surmise all sorts of things because obviously, we’ve had a great experience working together."

The Illumination boss acknowledged that he has a great rapport with Nintendo, saying:

My relationship with Nintendo now includes being on their board of directors, so I understand how people can surmise these things. But in terms of the specifics, that was just something that I’ve been hearing lots of reports. This is just about what’s next between Nintendo and Illumination.

Meledandri’s words appear to be a denial that his company and Nintendo are working on a Legend of Zelda film. Despite this, he doesn’t outrightly deny the reports but only succeeds in casting doubts on their veracity.

If there was truly nothing in the works, surely Meledandri would say so plainly and clear all doubts. He didn't do this, which makes us think that Sneider is on to something. Perhaps, Illumination and Nintendo are not ready to let the public in on their plans just yet – hence, Meledandri’s efforts to cast aspersions on the reports.

By the way, Sneider’s report is not the first time we will hear of plans for a Legend of Zelda animated film. Earlier this year, a different source made a similar claim regarding the unconfirmed adaptation.

Regardless of who says what, the only authentic sources on whether there is a Legend of Zelda film on the way are the two companies. However, Legend of Zelda fans will be hoping the two companies have something in the works and that it is as good, if not better than The Super Mario Bros. Movie.