Rating of
3/4
Let's-a Go!
Chris Kavan - wrote on 05/02/23
While you can't say The Super Mario Bros. Movie is especially ground-breaking or even an exceptional animated film, what you can say is that it's the perfect family treat - bright and action-packed to keep the kids happy and with enough nostalgia and Easter eggs to keep Nintendo fans and adults entertained along the way.
The premise is simple, a pair of brothers from Brooklyn, Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) have decided to start their own business and even though their first job is does not exactly go as planned, Mario sees opportunity when a major flood in Brooklyn means they can save the day - and get major exposure. But these heroics will have to wait as they find a seemingly abandoned underground complex of pipes - one that leads to adventure - or at least another world. Separated, Luigi finds himself imprisoned by the imposing Bowser (Jack Black) a fire-breathing monster who only has eyes for Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), who resides in the Mushroom Kingdom. Mario finds himself in said world, with Toad (Keegan-Michael Key) becoming his guide as he (almost) proves himself to the princess, who, in light of Bowser's impending invasion, must ask for help from the Kong army. Cranky Kong (Fred Armisen) will only lend his support if they can best his son, the show-boating Donkey Kong (Seth Rogen). But will even this combined force be enough to stop Bowser?
The film manages to elevate the Mario narrative without rocking the boat - it plays things pretty safe. Peach is far from the damsel in distress, but still needs help. And while many were worried about Pratt voicing Mario, I think it turned out fine. But Black is really the standout as Bowser - a lovelorn monster who will do anything for love - including destroy it if it doesn't go his way. Also, I really hope his song "Peaches" is nominated for an Oscar just so I can see him perform it live on stage. My favorite character, however, is definitely the imprisoned Lumalee (a star-like being) who continuously spouts nihilistic views about death and the unending void. So cute, yet so dark - I loved it.
The film is jam-packed with plenty of nostalgia and Easter eggs for those who like that kind of thing - from Jump Man to the Mario Bros. Rap to nods to Nintendo history - there's a lot to catch if you look out for it. It's a nice touch for those whose knowledge goes beyond the cursory. The film also does an excellent job with the soundtrack, incorporating classic Nintendo themes with songs like "Take On Me" "Mr. Blue Sky" and "Thunderstruck" - it's a great balance and I can't fault the choices.
But beyond that, the story is fine - nothing too deep - I compare it to Cotton Candy or a sugar rush - it hits hard and fast but doesn't really leave a lasting impression. Still, with over $1 billion and counting, it is easily the biggest video game movie of all time and one of the highest-grossing animated films ever. Who cares if it's a lot of fluff - it's certainly entertaining and I guarantee you will lead to a lot more films down the road. Hopefully they can take a few more chances but even if they continue to play things safe, I'm willing to go back for more. Hopefully with Wario next time.
