The Super Mario Bros. Movie, released in 1993, was one of the earliest attempts to bring video games to the big screen. Despite a strong cast and promising premise, the movie received mixed reviews from critics and was a box office bomb. Decades later, how does the film hold up? Is it a cult classic or a forgotten relic? In this review, we’ll dive into the world of Super Mario Bros. and explore whether or not it’s worth revisiting.
Introduction
The Super Mario Bros. Movie was release in 1993, directed by Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel. It was based on the iconic video game franchise of the same name, which had already captured the hearts of millions of gamers worldwide. The film starred Bob Hoskins as Mario, John Leguizamo as Luigi, and Dennis Hopper as the villainous King Koopa. Despite its promising premise, the movie was a critical and commercial failure, leaving many fans disappointed. But does the film deserve its bad reputation?
The Plot
The movie is set in an alternate dimension, where the dinosaurs never went extinct and evolved into intelligent creatures. The main story follows Mario and Luigi, two plumbers from Brooklyn, as they accidentally get sucked into this world and must save Princess Daisy from the evil King Koopa. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including the Goombas (Koopa’s minions), and must use their wits and skills to overcome them.
The Cast
One of the biggest strengths of the movie is its cast. Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo have great chemistry as Mario and Luigi, respectively. They bring a lot of heart and humor to their roles, making the audience root for them throughout the film. Dennis Hopper is also fantastic as King Koopa, bringing a level of intensity and menace to the role that makes him a formidable foe.
The Visuals
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its visuals. The filmmakers did an excellent job of bringing the world of Super Mario Bros. to life, with vibrant colors and creative set designs. The use of practical effects and puppetry also gives the film a unique charm that sets it apart from other movies of its time. While some of the special effects haven’t aged well, the overall aesthetic of the film is still impressive.
The Music
The Super Mario Bros. franchise is known for its iconic music, and the movie does not disappoint in this regard. The film’s score, composed by Alan Silvestri, captures the whimsical and adventurous spirit of the games. The movie also features several pop songs, including “Almost Unreal” by Roxette, which adds to the film’s overall fun and upbeat tone.
The Reception
As mentioned earlier, the movie was a critical and commercial failure. Many critics panned the film for its convoluted plot and tonal inconsistencies, while audiences were put off by its departure from the source material. However, over the years, the film has gained a cult following, with some fans appreciating its campy charm and nostalgic value.
Should You Watch It?
If you’re a fan of the Super Mario Bros. franchise, the movie is definitely worth a watch. While it may not be a perfect adaptation, it’s still an enjoyable and entertaining movie that captures the spirit of the games. The strong cast, unique visuals, and memorable music make it a fun experience for both fans and newcomers alike. If you’re looking for a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously and just wants to have fun, The Super Mario Bros. Movie is okey-dokey.
