The Super Mario Bros. Anime Movie
The Super Mario Bros. (Anime Movie)
Genre: Adventure / Comedy
Japanese Title: ザ・スーパーマリオブラザーズ・ムービー (Za Sūpā Mario Burazāzu Mūbī)
Year of Release: 2023
Origin: Japan
Runtime: 1 hour 1 minute
Director: Masami Hata
Production: Grouper Productions
Video Games: Super Mario Bros Arcade Game (1985)
Facts: The film garnered mixed reviews from critics; however, its box-office performance was nothing short of monumental. It shattered records, grossing an astounding $1.36 billion worldwide, becoming not only the highest-grossing film ever based on a video game but also the first such film to surpass the $1 billion mark. Throughout its theatrical run, it stood as the second-highest-grossing film of 2023, the third-highest-grossing animated film of all time, the 15th-highest-grossing film in history, and the highest-grossing film ever produced by Illumination. Its achievements were further recognized at the 81st Golden Globe Awards, where it received nominations for Best Animated Feature Film, Best Original Song, and the newly introduced Cinematic Box Office Achievement award.
Plot Overview
THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE chronicles the extraordinary adventures of two down-on-their-luck Italian-American plumbers, Mario and his younger brother, Luigi. Following a disastrous and spectacular plumbing mishap in Brooklyn, the brothers are abruptly transported to the enchanting and perilous Mushroom Kingdom. It is here, in this magical realm, that they become deeply embroiled in a conflict against the formidable and evil Bowser, the tyrannical king of the Koopas, who harbors an insatiable desire to conquer the kingdom and force Princess Peach into marriage. The brothers must bravely navigate a myriad of treacherous challenges, forge alliances with unexpected companions, and ultimately find the courage to thwart Bowser’s nefarious plans and rescue Luigi, who is tragically captured early in their journey.
Main Characters
- Mario: The main protagonist, a brave and determined plumber thrust into a world of magic and peril. He embarks on a courageous quest to save his brother and defend the Mushroom Kingdom. (Voiced by Chris Pratt)
- Luigi: Mario’s younger, more hesitant brother. His unwavering loyalty to Mario is tested when he is captured by Bowser, becoming a key motivation for Mario’s heroic actions. (Voiced by Charlie Day)
- Princess Peach: The strong-willed and capable ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom. She allies with Mario, providing crucial support and guidance in his fight against Bowser. (Voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy)
- Bowser: The main antagonist, a powerful and menacing Koopa king consumed by his ambition to rule the Mushroom Kingdom and impose his will upon its inhabitants. (Voiced by Jack Black)
A Vibrant Ensemble of Allies and Foes:
- Toad: A cheerful and loyal resident of the Mushroom Kingdom, whose unwavering optimism and helpful nature aid Mario on his perilous journey. (Voiced by Keegan-Michael Key)
- Kamek: Bowser’s cunning and magically adept advisor, who consistently assists in executing the Koopa king’s wicked schemes. (Voiced by Kevin Michael Richardson)
The film masterfully combines thrilling adventure, laugh-out-loud comedy, and breathtakingly vibrant animation, creating an immersive experience that resonates with both long-time fans of the iconic video game franchise and entirely new audiences alike.
