By Katherine Robinson

The Mario Brothers games have that certain something that makes them special to anyone who has played them. There is a charm to every Mario World game, that to date has not been able to be captured in any movie. The release of The Super Mario Bros. Movie is the most recent attempt to capture the charm of the game in a movie. How did it do?

If you would have told five-year-old me that this movie would exist, I would not have believed it. Chris Pratt does well, his funny acting style fits perfectly with this kind of movie. Anya Taylor-Joy will definitely be one of my new favorite female actors. She gave a lead and amazing personality to Princess Peach. Charlie Day’s portrayal of Luigi is amazing. He definitely fit the voice of Luigi!

I would personally recommend watching this movie if you were really a Mario games fan when you were younger or you were looking for a comedy to watch with your family. The storyline was great in this movie.

Without giving you any spoilers, there are many references to the various Mario games. It was a little emotional in the theater at the scenes with the bros as babies. It was heartwarming to show how much they truly care for each other, especially when it builds to the end when they reunite. I was expecting fun, but I was not expecting emotional connection to the characters and the story. It was so much so, that it made me think about the relationship I have with my own sister. I also love the development of them both. Luigi being brave to help his brother and Mario, tackle problems in our day-to-day lives.

It was admirable that they had to courage to face the odds to rescue Peach. It was also nice to see Peach’s backstory. However, it makes me wonder if she was an orphan or if she got lost from her parents. It remains a mystery to us all. Toad is an icon, there to protect Peach and he does a great job too. That is how loyal toads are.

Donkey Kong and his relationship with Mario was an interesting thing to do. Especially in the fighting scene. They were talking about their dads and they both had something they relate with. Being able to work it through and work together is an amazing development.

The main theme of this movie is family and the hard work needed to keep a good relationships, especially when cranky Kong sees DK as not just a spotlight hog but a loyal son. Overall, I give this movie a 9.5/10! Definitely hoping for maybe a sequel or other spin-offs!

While other critics did not love this movie, there is a lot there for average people, who love the games and have a family. It is a great place to go for family fun and great entertainment.