When it comes to video game movies, adaptations can be challenging. They need to stay true to the source material or risk alienating longtime fans. At the same time, to be successful, they must appeal to a wider audience. Ideally, knowledge of the games should enhance the experience—not be required for it.
Many reviews of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie have said it’s “for the fans.” That may be true—but it’s not just for gamers.
The Story
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie opens with Princess Rosalina reading the Lumas a bedtime story. As the voice of Rosalina, Brie Larson brings a maternal warmth and joy that makes the character instantly endearing. So when she’s captured by the bratty Bowser Jr., the audience is immediately invested in seeing her rescued and returned home.
Princess Rosalina after dispatching an enemy in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie – YouTube, Nintendo of America
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Meanwhile, Mario and Luigi are racing motorcycles through the desert. It’s easy to forget that Chris Pratt and Charlie Day are behind the voices—by this second film, they simply are the plumbers fans know and love. Their high-speed intro leads into a plumbing job, which results in the discovery of Yoshi. While Donald Glover may seem overqualified for the role, voicing Yoshi requires more than just repeating a single phrase—and he brings surprising personality to it.
Yoshi, Toad, and Mario and Luigi in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie Trailer – YouTube, Nintendo of America
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To say much more would venture into spoiler territory. Simply put, there’s another princess in need of rescue. It’s up to Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach to save her—and ultimately, the galaxy.
Wonderful, If Overstimulating
With the groundwork laid by the first film, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie moves at full speed from the start. At times, though, that momentum works against it. The film can feel less like a seamless narrative and more like a series of interconnected moments. While that pacing may appeal to shorter attention spans, the combination of rapid structure and vibrant visuals can occasionally become overstimulating.
Princess Rosalina takes on a Robot in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie – YouTube, Nintendo of America
That said, the visuals are stunning. Every frame bursts with rich color and a genuine sense of wonder. Brian Tyler’s score does more than set the tone—it adds texture. Familiar musical themes are reimagined to great effect, offering longtime fans a fresh way to experience Mario’s iconic sound.
Of course, great visuals and music can only carry a film so far.
A New Story Built on Timeless Themes
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has received some harsh criticism in the mainstream press for its simplicity. Others have pointed—less favorably—to its lack of overt social messaging. But that restraint is where the film finds its strength. It doesn’t try to push a message—it reflects timeless themes instead.
Bowser Jr. in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – YouTube, Nintendo of America
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Bowser Jr.’s arc centers on a son who simply wants to build something with his father. In Bowser’s absence following the events of the first film, that longing sends him down a darker path. This contrasts with the princesses, whose focus is on caring for the childlike Lumas and Toads. Rosalina—and especially Peach—are undeniably over-powered, yet Peach’s “girl boss” moments never come at Mario’s expense.
And Mario remains exactly who he’s always been: someone who fixes what he can, and when he can’t, offers stability and optimism.
Worthy of the Legacy
While The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has its flaws—particularly its occasionally disjointed and overindulgent structure—it succeeds where it matters most. It’s simply a fun time at the movies. The nods to the franchise’s 40-year history don’t feel like hollow Easter eggs, but genuine expressions of appreciation for Mario’s legacy.
Mario and Luigi in the desert kingdom from the Super Mario Galaxy Movie Trailer – YouTube, Nintendo of America
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Ultimately, it’s an 8/10 film, with plenty of charm for both gamers and general audiences to enjoy.
Have you seen The Super Mario Galaxy Movie yet? What did you think? Sound off in the comments!
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