Plot: What’s it about?
Who’d have thought, back in 1983, that a video game about a gorilla that captures a princess only to be saved by a plumber would still be relevant four decades later? Well, it is. In fact, the Mario universe is probably as popular as its ever been. There have been multiple generations that have played at least one Mario game and there are plenty to choose from. And why not? What’s not to like? The adorable Italian in his overalls trying to rescue a princess and fighting off things that I can’t even describe. Likely everyone shares an affinity for Mario and his brother, Luigi. This, of course, isn’t the first Mario Bros. movie – there was a live action one back in the early 90’s and, well, let’s just say that less said about that – the better. Back in 2023 we were graced with The Super Mario Bros. Movie. I, and many others, enjoyed it. Here’s the obligatory sequel a few years later. Is it worth it? Hey, it’s a me – Mario! Would I a lie to you?
We meet a new character (though not new to any true fan) in Rosalina (voiced by Brie Larson), a galactic princess and an adoptive mother to the Lumas. They’re a friendly, mysterious, star-like creatures that rely on one another. We then cut to Bowser Jr. (voiced by Benny Safdie), the new leader of the Koopas, known for their tempers. Bowser Jr. is in search of his Dad, Bowser (voiced by Jack Black) who’s currently under house arrest by Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) and Luigi (voiced by Charlie Day). We follow along as Bowser Jr. is summarily shrunken down to adorable size by Princess peach (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy) with a little assist from Toad (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key) and some friends. Suffice it to say that Rosalina is abducted, the Lumas go to the Mushroom Kingdom and Peach, Mario and Luigi are on a mission to get her back.
Odds are that if you liked The Super Mario Bros. Movie then you’ll like this one as well. The filmmakers know this. If it ain’t broke…why not make another billion dollars off a franchise that’s made several hundred billion already? I, like many others, grew up on Mario and Lugi, but there was a lot that happened after I “lost interest.” But this one delivers like few sequels can with an expanded cast, making it “bigger and better” as well as a pretty interesting plot. More of the same isn’t always a bad thing.
Video: How’s it look?
I can probably count the number of computer-animated films on one hand that I’ve ever found fault in. This one, streamed on iTunes, looks perfect. Yes, perfect. The 2.39:1 HEVC 4K encode image is colorful, detailed and is so bursting with life that I’ve already run out of good things to say. The textures on the costumes, the intricate backgrounds and everything in between. Truthfully, this is one that you should see on the biggest screen possible. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you were a player in a video game – this is about as close as you can get to making it happen.
Audio: How’s it sound?
Like its predecessor, the Dolby Atmos soundtrack pulls no punches. And all the familiar sounds are here with the “power up” indicator along with enough Italian stereotyped dialogue to offend the entire country. OK, maybe not. Surrounds are constantly active, especially during the final act. If it keeps a big kid like me satisfied, I think we can safely assume that it’ll work wonders for the target demographic.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Next Level: Making The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – Go behind the scenes of this epic journey across the cosmos as the visionary creators at Nintendo, the acclaimed filmmakers and artists of Illumination, and the extraordinary cast who redefined these iconic characters reveal the artistry behind every meticulously crafted moment.
- Cast of Characters – Explore how this impeccable cast masterfully embodied the iconic characters, honoring their legacy while captivating audiences across generations worldwide.
- Mario & Luigi
- Peach & Rosalina
- Bowser & Bowser Jr.
- Toad & Yoshi
- Exploring the Galaxy – Guided by the filmmakers and cast, audiences embark on a journey through the film’s most iconic settings, revealing the thoughtful layers of nostalgia embedded in each one.
- Galactic Thematics – The emotional core of any film lies in its relationships. This piece delves into the bonds between characters, examining the alliances that are tested, the connections that are broken, and those that endure and evolve forever.
- Cosmic Tunes – Some sounds are unmistakable. Composer Brian Tyler invites audiences inside his creative process, reimagining the franchise’s iconic game music as a powerful cinematic score that drives the action and elevates this epic adventure.
- Power-ups – There is no greater tool in the galaxy than a perfectly timed power-up. Take a closer look at the many power-ups featured in the film, explore how the filmmakers selected which to include, and hear from the cast as they share their personal favorites.
- Secrets of the Galaxy – Brimming with cleverly hidden Easter eggs, the film invites fans to return again and again to catch them all. In this feature, the filmmakers and cast offer insider guidance on where to look, what to watch for, and the surprises waiting to be discovered.
The Bottom Line
Some reviews tout this as being better than the first. I tend to disagree. That’s not to say that I disliked this, I simply preferred the first one. Having said that, both are fun to watch and look and sound great. Any fan of Mario Bros. (and there are billions who are) will more likely than not be entertained. I was.
