The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) Review: A Nostalgic Adventure with Modern Flair
The Super Mario Bros. Movie, released in 2023, is a vibrant and nostalgic adaptation of Nintendo’s iconic video game franchise. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, the film brings the beloved characters of the Mushroom Kingdom to life with a fresh and contemporary take. As the first major animated feature film based on the Super Mario series in decades, it captures the spirit of the games while introducing new elements for both long-time fans and newcomers.
Plot Overview
In The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the story follows Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) and his brother Luigi (voiced by Charlie Day) as they find themselves transported from their plumbing business in Brooklyn to the magical Mushroom Kingdom. The brothers are thrust into a battle against the evil Bowser (voiced by Jack Black), who seeks to conquer the Mushroom Kingdom and capture Princess Peach (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy).
As Mario and Luigi navigate this new world, they team up with Peach and other allies, including Toad (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key), to thwart Bowser’s plans. The film is a colorful adventure filled with action, humor, and plenty of references to the beloved video games that have defined a generation.
Direction and Screenplay
Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic’s direction in The Super Mario Bros. Movie is characterized by its high-energy, fast-paced storytelling and vibrant animation:
- Direction: Horvath and Jelenic bring a playful and dynamic approach to the film, capturing the whimsical essence of the Mario universe. Their direction ensures that the film remains engaging and entertaining for viewers of all ages.
- Screenplay: The screenplay, written by Matthew Fogel, balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling. It incorporates numerous references and Easter eggs for fans of the games while crafting an accessible narrative for new audiences. The humor and dialogue contribute to the film’s charm, though some critics may find it formulaic.
Animation and Visuals
The animation in The Super Mario Bros. Movie is one of its standout features:
- Visual Style: The film boasts a visually stunning aesthetic that faithfully captures the look and feel of the Mario games. The vibrant colors, detailed environments, and fluid animation bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life in a way that is both nostalgic and visually captivating.
- Character Design: The character designs are faithful to their video game counterparts while also being adapted for the big screen. The designs help maintain the charm and personality of the beloved characters.
Voice Performances
The voice cast delivers a mix of familiar and fresh interpretations:
- Chris Pratt as Mario: Pratt’s portrayal of Mario brings a modern and charismatic touch to the character. While his casting initially drew mixed reactions, his performance fits well with the film’s tone and energy.
- Charlie Day as Luigi: Day provides a humorous and endearing performance as Luigi, capturing the character’s loyalty and comedic timing.
- Jack Black as Bowser: Black’s performance as Bowser is a highlight of the film. His portrayal combines menace with a playful sense of humor, making Bowser a memorable antagonist.
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach: Taylor-Joy brings a strong and confident presence to Princess Peach, adding depth and agency to the character.
Music and Soundtrack
The film’s music and soundtrack are integral to its appeal:
- Score and Soundtrack: The soundtrack features a mix of original compositions and classic tunes from the Mario games. The music complements the film’s action and emotional beats, enhancing the overall experience.
Reception and Impact
The Super Mario Bros. Movie has received generally positive reviews from both critics and audiences. It has been praised for its visual appeal, faithful adaptation of the game’s world, and entertaining performances. The film’s ability to appeal to both fans of the franchise and new viewers has contributed to its success.
However, some critics have noted that while the film is visually impressive and fun, its plot and character development might feel somewhat formulaic. Despite this, the film’s nostalgic elements and faithful representation of the Mario universe have been widely appreciated.
Streaming and Rental/Purchase Options
For those interested in watching The Super Mario Bros. Movie, here are some options:
- Streaming Services: The film is available for streaming on platforms like Peacock and Amazon Prime Video, depending on regional licensing agreements.
- Rental/Purchase: The Super Mario Bros. Movie can also be rented or purchased on popular platforms such as Amazon Video, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $5.99, while purchase prices range from $12.99 to $19.99, depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is a vibrant and entertaining adaptation of Nintendo’s beloved franchise. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, and featuring a charismatic voice cast led by Chris Pratt and Jack Black, the film successfully brings the Mushroom Kingdom to life with a mix of nostalgia and modern flair. While it may not offer groundbreaking storytelling, its visual appeal, humor, and faithful representation of the Mario universe make it a delightful watch for fans and newcomers alike.
