The Super Mario Bros. Movie – Film Review

While working underground to fix a water main, Brooklyn plumbers—and brothers—Mario and Luigi are transported down a mysterious pipe and wander into a magical new world. But when the brothers are separated, Mario embarks on an epic quest to find Luigi.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie takes audiences on a vibrant adventure through the iconic Mushroom Kingdom. With an all-star voice cast including Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, Jack Black, and Anya Taylor-Joy, the film promises a delightful experience for both fans of the beloved video game franchise and newcomers alike. In this review, we will explore the movie’s strengths, such as the stellar voice performances and humor, as well as its weaknesses, including pacing issues, a predictable storyline, and a lack of depth.

One of the standout aspects of The Super Mario Bros. Movie is the exceptional voice acting by the talented cast. Chris Pratt brings a fresh and energetic portrayal to the iconic character of Mario, capturing his optimism and determination excellently. Charlie Day’s interpretation of Luigi is endearing and provides a delightful contrast to Pratt’s Mario. Jack Black shines as the villainous and oftentimes downright hilarious Bowser, injecting the character with a unique blend of comedic timing and evil charm. Anya Taylor-Joy adds a touch of elegance and complexity to the role of Princess Peach, lending depth to the character.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie manages to deliver surprising moments of humor throughout its runtime. The comedic timing and chemistry between the characters are commendable, providing plenty of laughs for viewers of all ages. The humor ranges from slapstick physical gags to clever wordplay, successfully capturing the lighthearted spirit of the video game series. The movie doesn’t rely solely on nostalgia but also introduces fresh comedic elements that make it accessible to a wider audience.

Visually, the film impresses with its stunning animation style, courtesy of Illumination. The film brings the Mushroom Kingdom to life with vivid colors, detailed character designs, and vibrant environments. The animation is fluid and dynamic, capturing the essence of the Mario games’ whimsical world. It’s a treat to see the iconic characters in such a visually captivating way, and the attention to detail in recreating the Mushroom Kingdom is commendable.

For fans of the Super Mario Bros. franchise, the movie is a treasure trove of Easter eggs and references. From familiar power-ups to nods to classic levels, the filmmakers have managed to incorporate these elements seamlessly into the narrative, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia. Discovering these hidden gems adds an extra layer of enjoyment for long-time fans, creating a sense of connection to the source material.

One of the film’s main drawbacks is its fast-paced nature. While the action-packed sequences keep the energy high, they sometimes come at the expense of allowing for meaningful character development and emotional resonance. The breakneck speed at which the plot progresses may leave some viewers longing for more breathing room to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Unfortunately, The Super Mario Bros. Movie falls victim to a predictable and formulaic storyline. The plot follows a traditional hero’s journey, lacking surprises or major twists that would elevate the narrative. While the film attempts to introduce new elements and expand on the Mario universe, it ultimately settles into a familiar pattern that doesn’t take full advantage of the rich potential of the source material.

Despite the film’s entertaining nature, it fails to delve deeply into the characters or explore complex themes. The film primarily focuses on surface-level humor and action, leaving little room for emotional depth or character growth. While this approach may be suitable for younger viewers and fans seeking a lighthearted adventure, it leaves a sense of missed opportunities to fully engage with the characters and their world. The movie could have benefited from a more nuanced exploration of the relationships and motivations of its beloved characters, allowing for a more emotionally resonant experience.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is an enjoyable and visually captivating experience that will please fans of the franchise and provide a fun introduction for newcomers. Despite its flaws, the film’s voice performances, humor, and animation style make it a worthwhile watch.