The news that The Super Mario Bros. Movie would be an animated feature from the studio responsible for the Minions franchise was initially met with something of a negative response from fans of the video game franchise. Visually, this adaptation looks phenomenal, but many of the complaints online continue to revolve around the A-List cast.
While there were some criticisms, the footage we've seen from Mario's long-overdue big screen return has received a mostly positive response online. Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt's take on the character has, however, been predictably divisive, with many arguing he basically just sounds like...Chris Pratt.
That's a departure from the video game Mario, though what little we've heard suggests the actor has added a little flair to the hero to bring his take in line with what we're used to hearing in the games. Charlie Day, meanwhile, is going to lend his voice to Luigi, and Seth Rogen has been tapped to star as Donkey Kong.
We also have Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, and the entire ensemble is given the spotlight on this gorgeous new poster for The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Honestly, we're starting to get really excited about this one. Just like Sonic the Hedgehog exceeded expectations, all signs point to this movie doing the same thing, especially with a lot of big Easter Eggs and a clear love for the source material that promises to please fans of all ages.
From Nintendo and Illumination comes a new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros.
Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (Teen Titans Go!, Teen Titans Go! To the Movies) from a screenplay by Matthew Fogel (Minions: The Rise of Gru), the film also stars Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek, and Sebastian Maniscalco as Spike.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is set to be released in theaters on April 7, 2023.