Super Mario Bros. (1993) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Super Mario Bros.,” released in 1993 and directed by Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel, is a live-action adaptation of the popular Nintendo video game franchise. Starring Bob Hoskins, John Leguizamo, Dennis Hopper, and Samantha Mathis, the film represents a unique and ambitious attempt to bring the iconic video game characters to the big screen. This review explores the plot, performances, visual style, and overall reception of the film, and provides information on where to watch it in the United States.
Plot Summary
“Super Mario Bros.” follows the adventures of Mario Mario (Bob Hoskins) and Luigi Mario (John Leguizamo), two Brooklyn plumbers who are inadvertently transported to a parallel universe called Dinohattan. In this dystopian world, evolved dinosaurs live in a city reminiscent of New York but plagued by crime and corruption.
The brothers discover that Princess Daisy (Samantha Mathis) has been kidnapped by the villainous King Koopa (Dennis Hopper), who seeks to merge Dinohattan with the human world to rule both realms. Mario and Luigi must navigate the bizarre and perilous landscape of Dinohattan, rescue Princess Daisy, and thwart Koopa’s plans.
The film incorporates elements from the game, including the iconic power-ups and characters, but reimagines them within a more sci-fi, cyberpunk context. The Mario brothers face numerous challenges and eccentric characters as they work to save the day.
Performances
Bob Hoskins as Mario Mario delivers a solid performance, bringing a gruff charm and physicality to the role. Hoskins captures the working-class spirit of the character, though his portrayal diverges significantly from the video game’s cheerful and simplistic version.
John Leguizamo as Luigi Mario adds a sense of youthful energy and humor, balancing the film’s darker tone with his comedic timing. Leguizamo’s performance provides a lively counterpoint to Hoskins’ more serious take on Mario.
Dennis Hopper as King Koopa brings a menacing presence to the film, though his portrayal of the iconic video game villain is far removed from the original character. Hopper’s performance is characterized by his over-the-top antics and dramatic flair.
Samantha Mathis as Princess Daisy offers a competent performance, though her character’s development is limited. The film’s focus on action and adventure leaves little room for deeper exploration of her role.
Visual Style and Effects
“Super Mario Bros.” is known for its distinct and unconventional visual style. The film adopts a cyberpunk aesthetic with a gritty, industrial look that contrasts sharply with the colorful, whimsical world of the video game. The production design by David L. Snyder creates a dystopian, futuristic cityscape that is visually striking but arguably divergent from the game’s tone.
The special effects and CGI used in the film are a product of the early 1990s and are considered dated by modern standards. The practical effects, such as the design of the Goombas and the animatronic creatures, are memorable but may not meet the expectations of contemporary audiences.
Despite the film’s creative visual approach, some elements, such as the depiction of the power-ups and characters, may feel inconsistent with the source material. The film’s design choices reflect a unique interpretation of the Mario universe, though they diverge from the familiar game aesthetics.
Reception and Legacy
“Super Mario Bros.” received generally negative reviews upon its release, with critics highlighting its deviation from the beloved video game franchise and its convoluted plot. The film’s attempt to adapt the video game into a live-action format was seen as ambitious but ultimately flawed, leading to criticism of its narrative, character portrayals, and visual style.
Despite its mixed reception, “Super Mario Bros.” has gained a cult following over the years. Fans of the film appreciate its unique take on the Mario universe and its nostalgic value, even if it does not align with the expectations set by the game. The film remains a notable example of early video game adaptations and a point of interest for those exploring the history of gaming in cinema.
Streaming and Purchase Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Super Mario Bros.,” several streaming and purchase options are available in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“Super Mario Bros.” (1993) offers a unique and unconventional adaptation of the beloved Nintendo franchise. Featuring performances by Bob Hoskins, John Leguizamo, and Dennis Hopper, the film presents a gritty, cyberpunk version of the Mario universe that diverges significantly from the original game. Despite its negative reviews and departure from the source material, the film has achieved cult status and remains an intriguing chapter in the history of video game adaptations.
