Review of The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) by Kaihaku — 07 Apr 2023

The critics are out of touch and have forgotten that it's okay for a family film to be simple, joyful, and fun. The 90s Mario film was ruined because its filmmakers tried far far too hard to twist joyful Mario into something edgy, dark, and weird. This film accepts that Mario - despite the fantasy setting - is simple, joyful, and fun. The film's simple message that what makes Mario special is that he never gives up no matter how many times he fails is also true to the Mario games and, while not particularly edgy or deep, is still a good message for children. I had my concerns about Chris Pratt and Seth Rogan's clear disinterest in actual voice acting. Well, I admit it, I was wrong. They're fine. Their performances never rise to the level of Jack Black's Bowser but they don't distract from the experience either.

This is much more than a cheap nostalgia smash and grab. Nintendo is clearly invested in the long term success of Mario and this, along with the theme parks, is the next step towards something more.