Movie Reviews

The Super Mario Bros. Movie


“What is this place?”

Synopsis: Brooklyn plumbers Mario and Luigi are warped to the magical Mushroom Kingdom, and Mario must team up with Princess Peach, Toad, and Donkey Kong to save Luigi from the evil Bowser. They’re up to their old tricks again.

Boy, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”—what a nostalgic and vibrant journey it offers! I’d say this film strikes a delicate balance between honoring its beloved video game origins and crafting an engaging cinematic experience.

From the outset, the plot feels like a playful adventure that taps into themes of friendship, perseverance, and the timeless battle between good and evil. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it captures the whimsical spirit of the Mario universe with a modern twist that keeps viewers, especially fans of all ages, hooked.

The tone is lively and colorful, almost like stepping into a living, breathing Mario world. The direction is energetic and confident, with a keen eye for creating dynamic action sequences and humorous moments that land just right. The score and sound design cleverly incorporate iconic Mario tunes, elevating the nostalgic feel and immersing the audience further into this fantastical land.

The voice acting is spirited, with characters that display a nice blend of charm and humor. The performances bring a sense of warmth and personality that makes you genuinely care about their journeys. The animation and production design shine, capturing the essence of the game’s vibrant worlds with eye-popping visuals and inventive set pieces.

What resonated most with me was the film’s ability to evoke a sense of wonder and joy, reminiscent of my youthful days spent playing Mario games. It’s a film that makes you smile, laugh, and occasionally marvel at how far video game adaptations have come. However, at times, the pacing feels a bit rushed, trying to cram in as much as possible, which might leave some moments feeling slightly underdeveloped.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie was released in 2023. It is 1 h 32 min and rated PG. Currently available on Amazon Prime with a subscription. Apple TV, Fandango, Google Play Movies, and YouTube from $3.99.

We give The Super Mario Bros. Movie

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” is a delightful romp that celebrates its source material while offering a fun, energetic experience for newcomers and longtime fans alike. It rekindled my own youthful excitement and reminded me of the universal appeal of Mario’s adventures—an escapade full of heart, humor, and adventure. There’s always hope to defeat darkness, no matter the odds. No wonder it’s a video game icon. A good all-around family film!

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