Super Mario Bros. 

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) Review: Nostalgic Fun with a Dash of Adventure

Overview

Directed by Aaron Horvath, The Super Mario Bros. Movie brings the beloved Nintendo franchise to life in a colorful, action-packed animated film. Featuring Chris Pratt as Mario and Jack Black as the villainous Bowser, the movie takes fans on a wild adventure through the Mushroom Kingdom as Mario and Luigi fight to save Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) and thwart Bowser’s plans for domination. Packed with humor, nostalgic Easter eggs, and a vibrant visual style, the movie is a love letter to fans while offering a family-friendly story of courage, teamwork, and perseverance.

Comprehensive Analysis

Story: 80/100 (Simple but Fun)

The film follows a straightforward hero’s journey as Mario and Luigi navigate strange new worlds to save the day. While the plot doesn’t break new ground, it’s filled with heart and plenty of nods to the games that fans will appreciate. Themes of brotherhood, courage, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone anchor the film emotionally, even if some narrative moments feel rushed.

Acting: 85/100 (Energetic and Entertaining)

Chris Pratt delivers a surprisingly solid performance as Mario, blending humor and earnestness. Jack Black steals the show as Bowser, balancing menace and hilarity with his over-the-top delivery. Anya Taylor-Joy’s Peach is confident and capable, adding depth to a traditionally one-dimensional character. Charlie Day as Luigi brings a nervous charm that complements Mario’s bravery.

Direction: 82/100 (Bright and Engaging)

Aaron Horvath skillfully balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling, ensuring the film appeals to longtime fans and younger audiences alike. The pacing is brisk, perhaps too brisk at times, but the energy and charm keep viewers engaged. The film’s tone stays lighthearted, matching the whimsical nature of its source material.

Cinematography: 90/100 (Vibrant and Immersive)

The animation is stunning, with richly detailed environments and dynamic action sequences that capture the spirit of the games. Iconic locations like the Mushroom Kingdom, Bowser’s lair, and the Rainbow Road are beautifully brought to life, offering a visual feast for fans.

Music: 88/100 (Nostalgic and Fun)

Brian Tyler’s score integrates iconic Mario themes with original compositions, creating a soundtrack that is both nostalgic and exciting. Jack Black’s comedic musical number as Bowser is a standout moment that adds an extra layer of fun.

Faith-Based Insights

Faith Lens: 75/100 (Encouraging Themes of Courage and Teamwork)

The film emphasizes themes of bravery, perseverance, and teamwork, offering a positive message about stepping up to face challenges and relying on the support of others. Mario’s journey of self-discovery and Luigi’s loyalty to his brother resonate with Biblical values of love and unity (Proverbs 17:17).

Biblically Accurate Score: 70/100 (Positive but Secular)

The film’s themes align with Christian values like courage and sacrificial love, but its fantastical setting and focus on power-ups and magical elements are secular in nature. While not spiritually profound, it’s a clean and uplifting adventure.

Magic and Witchcraft Score: 65/100 (Fantastical and Playful)

The film features magical elements such as power-ups, fire flowers, and invincibility stars. These are portrayed as whimsical tools within the fantasy world, but parents may want to discuss the use of fantastical elements in light of Biblical teachings (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).

Suggestive Themes Score (Sexuality and Relationships): 100/100 (Completely Clean)

The film contains no romantic or suggestive content, focusing instead on familial bonds and friendships.

Creation and Origins Score: N/A

The film does not address creation or origins, focusing instead on its fantastical universe.

Language Score: 95/100 (Clean and Family-Friendly)

The dialogue is clean, with no offensive language or crude jokes.

Alcohol/Drug Use Score: 100/100 (None)

There are no references to alcohol or drugs.

Sex/Nudity Score: 100/100 (Completely Clean)

No sexual content or nudity is present in the film.

Blood/Gore Score: 100/100 (Nonexistent)

The film contains no violence beyond cartoonish action sequences.

Moral and Thematic Evaluation

Moral Watchpoints

The film’s use of magic and fantastical elements, while playful, may warrant discussion for Christian families who prefer to avoid such themes. Otherwise, it is entirely family-friendly.

Worldview Analysis: 80/100 (Hopeful and Positive)

The movie encourages viewers to be brave in the face of adversity, to value teamwork and sacrifice, and to support one another. These themes align well with a Christian worldview, even though the story remains secular.

Redemptive Potential: 85/100 (Inspiring and Heartfelt)

Mario’s journey from an ordinary plumber to a selfless hero inspires viewers to embrace their God-given talents and persevere in the face of challenges. The sibling bond between Mario and Luigi highlights the importance of family and loyalty, echoing Christ’s call to love one another.

Parental Guidance

Recommended Age: 6+ for mild fantasy action and slapstick humor.
Discussion Prompts:

• How does Mario’s courage reflect the Biblical principle of standing firm in faith (1 Corinthians 16:13)?

• Why is teamwork and supporting one another important, even when the odds seem stacked against us?

• How can we use our gifts to help others, as Mario and Luigi do in the film?

Favorite Moment

Mario and Luigi’s climactic showdown with Bowser, where the brothers combine their strengths to protect their world, is a thrilling and heartwarming highlight.

Favorite Line

“You just got Luigi’d!” – Luigi’s triumphant declaration during a pivotal moment of bravery.

Skip to the Verdict

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is a vibrant, nostalgic, and fun-filled adventure that stays true to the spirit of the beloved video games. With a positive message about courage, teamwork, and perseverance, it’s an entertaining choice for families and fans of all ages.

Final Scores:

• Story: 80/100

• Acting: 85/100

• Direction: 82/100

• Cinematography: 90/100

• Music: 88/100

• Faith Lens: 75/100

• Biblically Accurate Score: 70/100

• Magic and Witchcraft Score: 65/100

• Suggestive Themes Score: 100/100

• Language Score: 95/100

• Alcohol/Drug Use Score: 100/100

• Sex/Nudity Score: 100/100

• Blood/Gore Score: 100/100

• Overall: 85/100 – Nostalgic and Heartwarming

If You Liked This, Try…

• "Sonic the Hedgehog 2" (2022): Another colorful, action-packed video game adaptation.

• "The LEGO Movie" (2014): A playful adventure with themes of teamwork and creativity.

• "Wreck-It Ralph" (2012): A heartwarming story set in the world of video games.

Reflection Prompt

Reflect on Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” How can we support and encourage those we love, even when the challenges feel overwhelming?