(16)Movie Review: The Super Mario Bros. Movie [CBFC: U • 2023 ‧ Family/Adventure ‧ 1h 32m]
This is a colorful, fun-filled, kids adventurous movie that brings the beloved video game characters to life so that it can be enjoyed by all. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, the film captures the whimsical spirit of the games while adding enough narrative depth to make it an entertaining watch for newcomers and longtime fans alike. Your childhood memories are going to be refreshed, those days when you played "The Super Mario Game!"
Plot Overview
The movie flicks off showing Mario & Luigi as the plumber brothers. This is their self venture in Brooklyn that they have begun in competition with their ex-employer Spike and against their dad's will despite his denial. As they pay a visit to their first customer for a small leakage issue they just create chaos in the bathroom just by making it a menace. Soon, they discover it on news that Brooklyn has a main water leak. When they go underground to fix this leakage both Mario and Luigi are sucked into a warp pipe and they both get separated. Mario reaches the Mushroom Kingdom while his brother Luigi lands on the Dark Lands. Mario meets Toad in the Mushroom Kingdom who takes him to the Princess Peach. The Mushroom Kingdom is ruled by Princess Peach and the Dark Lands by the evil Koopas king Bowser. Mario then seeks the help of Princess Peach to help him find and save his brother Luigi as Bowser has imprisoned Luigi. Now, Peach and Mario together seek help from the Donkey Kong and his army since Bowser has threatened to destroy the Mushroom Kingdom. He makes a deal to not destroy the Mushroom Kingdom if Princess Peach agrees to marry him. Now, Mario, Peach, Toad and Kong together plan to attack Bowser but unfortunately their attempt goes in vain.
What they do next to save the Mushroom Kingdom and Luigi from Bowser is the most thrilling part which forms the crux of the storyline making it a delightful watch. The plot is really good as it keeps you engaged and involved till the end. So, grab your popcorn 🍿/pizzas 🍕/coffee ☕ before the movie starts because you ain't gonna be getting up in between.
Performance
Mario voiced by Chris Pratt and Luigi voiced by Charlie Day, the brothers are instantly likable, with their sibling dynamic providing both heart and humor throughout the film. The voice acting across the board is commendable, with standout performances that bring characters like Princess Peach, Toad, and Bowser to life in a fresh and engaging way.
Visual & Special Effects
Visually, the movie is a treat. The animation is bright, colorful, and brimming with the kind of detail that makes the Mushroom Kingdom feel like a fully realized world. From the lush landscapes to the intricate designs of Bowser’s fortress, every frame is packed with Easter eggs and references that fans of the games will delight in spotting. The action scenes are particularly well-executed, with the film embracing the physics-defying antics that are a hallmark of the games, including a thrilling kart-racing sequence that’s sure to be a highlight for many viewers.
Direction
The film’s story, while straightforward, is engaging enough to keep audiences invested. It smartly avoids taking itself too seriously, instead leaning into the fun and absurdity that makes the Mario franchise so enduring. The humor is light and family-friendly, with plenty of jokes and gags that will appeal to both kids and adults. There’s a good balance between action, comedy, and moments of genuine emotion, particularly in the relationship between Mario and Luigi.
One of the film’s strengths is how it manages to stay true to the essence of the games while also expanding the characters’ personalities and backstories. Mario’s journey from an underdog plumber to a hero is satisfying, and Luigi’s character arc adds a nice emotional depth to the story. Princess Peach is portrayed as a capable leader, and Bowser, voiced by Jack Black, is both menacing and comically over-the-top.
Critics
If there’s a critique to be made, it’s that the film occasionally plays it safe, sticking closely to the established formula without taking many risks. Some might find the story a bit predictable, and the pacing, while generally good, slows down in a few places. However, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable movie.
Conclusion
The movie is a love letter to the franchise, packed with nostalgia and creativity. It’s a film that understands its audience and delivers exactly what you’d hope for from a Mario movie: a fun, fantastical adventure that’s both a celebration of the games and a solid family film in its own right. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just looking for an entertaining movie to watch, The Super Mario Bros. Movie is a winning choice.
P.S.: Sequel is set to release on 3rd April 2026
Watch it on NETFLIX
SCREEN SPEAK:
★★★★★★★★☆☆ (8/10)
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