Super Mario Bros. (Film)

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is a 2023 animated film based on Nintendo’s video game series, developed as a co-production between Illumination Entertainment and Nintendo. The film adapts the story of the legendary game characters Mario and Luigi into animated cinema, blending action, adventure, and fantasy elements. Produced by Chris Meledandri and Shigeru Miyamoto, the film is notable as Nintendo’s first major animated project to directly contribute to the film industry.

The film follows brothers Mario and Luigi, plumbers living in Brooklyn, who travel through a mysterious underground pipe into a fantastical world. While Mario attempts to rescue his brother Luigi, he teams up with characters such as Princess Peach, Toad, and Donkey Kong. Throughout the story, they confront the villain Bowser’s plans to seize control of the world. The narrative centers on Mario’s courage, cooperation, and determination as key elements in resolving the conflict.

Key themes of the film include brotherhood, courage, personal growth, and perseverance. Mario’s determination and sense of responsibility are highlighted despite his physically unimposing appearance. The character of Luigi undergoes development through his journey from fearfulness to loyalty. The film also subtly explores the relationship between reality and fiction through transitions between the rules of the game world and the real world. In terms of social gender representation, Princess Peach is portrayed as an active and empowered figure.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie was released globally on April 5, 2023. It earned $375 million worldwide in its opening week, setting record-breaking opening figures for an animated film. Its total box office revenue surpassed $1 billion and placed it among the highest-grossing films of 2023.

The film was produced as a joint venture between Japan-based Nintendo and the U.S.-based Illumination studio. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, the screenplay was written by Matthew Fogel. During production, Nintendo’s creative directors provided direct input, particularly overseeing character design and ensuring the worlds remained faithful to the video games. The film employs three-dimensional digital animation techniques. Illumination’s animation studio in Paris played an active role in the production process.

• Mario: The main character who drives the story through his courage and determination. Voice: Chris Pratt
• Luigi: Mario’s brother who develops through his fears and loyalty. Voice: Charlie Day
• Princess Peach: Leader of the kingdom, noted for her active and strategic role. Voice: Anya Taylor-Joy
• Bowser: The primary antagonist, seeking to conquer the kingdom and marry Peach. Voice: Jack Black
• Toad: A cheerful and energetic helper who guides Mario. Voice: Keegan-Michael Key
• Donkey Kong: Initially appears as a rival but later becomes an ally. Voice: Seth Rogen
• Kamek: Serves as Bowser’s advisor. Voice: Kevin Michael Richardson
• Cranky Kong: Father of Donkey Kong and one of the kingdom’s leading figures. Voice: Fred Armisen

The film was recognized in various animation and audience-voted categories during the 2023 and 2024 award seasons:

• Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards: Favorite Movie (Won)
• People’s Choice Awards: Best Family Movie (Won)
• Annie Awards: Best Production Design (Nominated)
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Animated Feature Film (Nominated)
• Critics’ Choice Awards: Best Animated Film (Nominated)

The film generated widespread popularity among young audiences, particularly due to its impact on popular culture.