The Super Mario Bros movie is a massive success at the box office. Though the character was first adapted into the much maligned live-action film in 1993, this reboot brings him to the big screen in animated format- flawlessly capturing the visuals of the game world. But getting the look right is only half the battle. In this episode of Journey Through Cinema, I take a look at a key part of the storytelling and how it contributes to the movie feeling like a love letter to its lifelong fans but also how it may be a contributing factor to some of its greatest weaknesses.
Super Mario Bos follows the adventures of plumbers Mario and Luigi as they are pulled into the Mushroom Kingdom and must team up with Princess Peach and Toad to defeat the diabolical Bowser. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic from a screenplay by Matthew Fogel, the film stars Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan Michael Key as Toad, Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong, Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek and Sebastian Maniscalo as Spike.
Super Mario Bros: The Movie
Cast: Chris Pratt, Jack Black, Anya Taylor-Joy, Seth Rogen, Keegan-Michael Key, Charlie Day, Sebastian Maniscalco, Fred Armisen, Kevin Michael Richardson, Charles Martinet
Director: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic
Production: 2023
Age restrictions: PG