FILM REVIEW: ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Shines Like a Star

Whether you play his games or watch his movies, you’re probably familiar with this mustached plumber. Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) returns to the big screen and is shooting for the stars in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. 

This sequel follows the events after The Super Mario Bros. Movie, in which Mario and Luigi (Charlie Day) warp down a mysterious pipe and enter a new, yet magical realm. The first film features fan-favorite characters, numerous video game references, and lots of “mamma mias!” from Pratt. While the brothers have mastered their way around the Mushroom Kingdom, they now face the aftermath of their battle with Bowser.

In the opening scene, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie introduces viewers to the main antagonist, Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie). This role marks his debut in voice acting, but he delivers an incredible performance, capturing the character’s hyperactive personality and vengeful spirit regarding Bowser’s imprisonment. The movie begins with Bowser Jr. capturing Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson), jump-starting his plans to rescue his father and destroy the universe. 

Viewers then head to the desert for the appearance of the Mario brothers. The film revolves around the duo, but the real star of this movie is Yoshi (Donald Glover). From the moment he steps out of the pipe, you can’t help but smile every time he’s on screen. Glover’s experience with voice acting, paired with Illumination’s slapstick animations, creates a character and personality that feels comfortable and familiar to fans. 

After the character introductions, the movie delivers a stunning scene that pays homage to Super Mario Galaxy’s intro. Fans see a rainfall of shooting stars that soar across the Mushroom Kingdom. While the video game depicts this moment with storybook illustrations, this scene brings it to life through lighting and color, two aspects that truly shine throughout the movie. 

The shooting stars bring the arrival of a Luma, who requests Princess Peach’s help in rescuing Princess Rosalina. After her departure with Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), Mario, Luigi, and Yoshi join her in space to help with the mission. Viewers follow the group’s galactic adventure as they encounter a mix of new settings, characters, and obstacles. 

While watching, you may notice that the plot mimics the first film, in which someone needs saving, and it’s up to Mario and friends to save the day. But this isn’t the only similarity. The movie also features a “group splits up” trope, platform-based action sequences, predictable jokes, and an overuse of exclamations from Mario (instead of “mamma mia,” expect a lot of “wahoo”). These aspects don’t detract from the film’s excitement, but they make the movie feel longer than it is (1h 39m).

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie also reimagines character relationships, which can pull you out of the film at times. There are scenes that show Mario having a crush on Princess Peach, as well as new information about the connection between her and Rosalina. These relationships have been part of fan speculation for a while, but seeing them in the movie makes you think, “Was this really necessary to include?”

While this film makes some unique choices, they are all outshone by the animation. Like its predecessor, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is produced by Illumination. The studio’s animation choices, through character expressions and movements, complement the film’s humor and whimsy. Apart from its traditional 3D style, Illumination introduces new approaches that emphasize the movie’s storytelling, such as puppetry for a scene between Bowser and his son and 2D stylings for the introduction of Fox McCloud (Glenn Powell). 

Fox McCloud is not the only video game nod fans can expect. This movie is also produced by Nintendo, which brings new Easter eggs, including appearances from Pikmin characters and Mr. Game and Watch. Fans can also expect references to Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario Galaxy, and Super Mario Maker. 

If you’re looking to level up your weekend plans, try watching this movie in 3D. It’s not ideal for many viewers, but this film’s flying and chasing sequences will make you feel like you’re part of the movie. Mario’s adventure is also colorful and vibrant, so IMAX is best for fans who want stunning visuals without the discomfort of 3D glasses. 

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is directed by Michael Jelenic and Aaron Horvath, co-directed by Pierre Leduc and Fabien Polack, and written by Matthew Fogel. 

3.5/5 stars.