The world’s most famous plumber becomes an animated movie star. Super Mario Bros, the movie by Aaron Hovarth and Michael Jelenic propose to experience the adventures of this Nintendo video game hero, a real treat for lovers of beautiful graphics and good-natured humor who can enjoy his universe without having to handle the controller. At the maneuver, Illumination, a Franco-American studio which notably created the Minions, brings this delirious universe to life.
“The main ingredients of Nintendo game series lend themselves particularly well to entertaining, original and inventive film projects aimed at viewers who are unfamiliar with the world of games”, explains Chris Meledandri, head of Illumination. In close collaboration with Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario’s dad, Illumination brings the mythical characters of the saga to life: Mario of course, but also his brother Luigi, Peach, Donkey Kong and Toad, united to beat the bad guy Bowser.
Well drawn characters
The references to games delight fans as they dot the story with delectable generosity. Certain elements such as the rainbow road or a Luma, a small depressive flame, are particularly delightful. However, it is not necessary to feel on familiar ground to have fun as the characters turn out to be endearing and well animated. After experiencing a disastrous adaptation in live action in 1993, Mario finally earned his stripes as a movie star. We are happy to explore pipes, drains and magical universes with this plumber.