The Super Mario Bros. Movie
It has been setting records at the box office for a very good reason.
Let me begin by saying that Super Mario just had the best fourth weekend box office for an animated film in the history of movies. I had to see it, even if I had to assume no parent would let their kids sit next to some questionable adult male sitting alone!
Quite frankly, it is no wonder that this film is such a gigantic success. Kids love it and adults find great fun from the beginning to end.
Based on Nintendo’s video game franchise, a collection of great actors provide the voices of the characters. In summation, the brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), two Italian-American plumbers, are transported to another world where they become separated. Mario is in the supportive Mushroom Kingdom while Luigi is in the Dark Lands ruled by the Evil Bowser (Jack Black).
Led by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), the leader of the Mushroom Army, Mario seeks to free his brother from Bowser’s clutches. Browser wants to marry Peach and destroy her Kingdom.
The ensuing battle covers the bulk of the film. Filled with great music, there are also some fun moments. In particular, watch for Mario’s struggle with Donkey Kong (Seth Rogen) that he must win to gain the support of the Jungle Kingdom, ruled by Donkey Kong’s father King Cranky Kong (Fred Armisen).
Let me close by admitting that I overcame my reluctance to see this movie. But as noted, this is far more than a kids’ film. Ironically, it combines a bit of romance with an adult level of sophistication that makes it an enjoyable experience.
