by: Fuyu Banno
Graphics Editor

On April 1, the long-awaited video game film, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie came out. The film followed the unforeseen success of the first movie, The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Introducing new characters and continuing paying tribute to the original game, the film became the highest-grossing film of the year so far despite negative reviews from critics.

After the release of the trailer, the film saw excitement due to a cameo from fan favorite character Rosalina, the magic-wielding princess. After watching the thrilling adventures of Mario in the first movie, many were eager to watch a similar style film, but with the addition of new cast members. Returning characters include Chris Pratt voicing Mario, Charlie Day as Luigi, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, and Jack Black as Bowser, among other iconic characters. The film also introduced more obscure faces to the audience, such as Fox and R.O.B. who are more well-known as playable characters in the Super Smash Brothers franchise.

Super Mario Galaxy follows the continuing conflict with Bowser, who was shrunken in the last movie after his defeat, as well as his estranged son, Bowser Jr., who wreaks havoc in the movie to honor his captured father. The movie starts off with the capture of Princess Rosalina and her adopted children, the Lumas, traveling to the Mushroom Kingdom for Princess Peach and Toad’s help. Mario and Luigi are then tasked to protect the kingdom as well as rehabilitate Bowser alongside Yoshi, who join them after a series of mischief and chases. From there, the two groups fall into battles and conflicts inside the various galaxies in the Super Mario universe against Bowser Jr and his crew. The film also reveals surprising history between the characters and moments of self-discovery that create a sense of real character instead of just playable roles in a video game.

Although the film became a blockbuster success, it was met with unfavorable reviews from professionals. Many critics highlighted that although the movie provided exceptional animations and world design, it lacked a deep and coherent storyline. Other critics also compared it to The Super Mario Brothers, saying that Super Mario Galaxy did not live up to the hype and splendor of the first movie.

Yet, even if the movie did not connect with critics, the film most definitely did with the general audience. Fans praised the movie for its family-friendly nature and its respect and lack of deviation from the original Super Mario and Nintendo franchise.

Whether it hit or missed with critics or fans, the Super Mario Galaxy movie took the audience on a colorful and action-packed journey alongside the characters that many grew up with or are still enjoying now on their Nintendo Switch.

[Sources: Forbes, Nintendo, the New York Times]