For all those seeking a wild ride these school holidays fit for the whole family, the Super Mario Galaxy Movie is your go to.
Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, both experienced animators, the film follows on from the events of the previous Super Mario Bros. Movie.
At this stage, Mario and Luigi are now recognised, and beloved, members of the Mushroom Kingdom, having saved Princess Peach from her forced marriage to the evil Bowser, who is now imprisoned in a shrunken form and undergoing rehabilitation from his evil ways.
Following an adventure in the desert, our two heroes become acquainted with the dinosaur Yoshi, who plays a major role in the film, and is indeed cuter than ever. All is not well, however, as Princess Rosalina, mother to the adorable star-like creatures called Lumas, is kidnapped by the vindictive, long-lost son of Bowser, named Bowser Jr., who takes her to his newly constructed planet, where he plans to utilise her magical powers for the worst purposes.
With Mario, Luigi, Yoshi and Princess Peach off to the rescue, the movie features 90-minutes of no-holds-barred enjoyment, as the heroes hop from planet to planet in search of Rosalina, much like in the acclaimed game that inspired the movie. Indeed, one develops a sense while watching that they are actually playing it themselves.
Along the way, they will meet beloved, and iconic, Nintendo characters, including Fox McCloud, who adds his own spin to things. Princess Peach will prove herself more than a mere damsel-in-distress as well, with her exhilarating umbrella combat technique practically stealing the show. Bowser will join Mario and Luigi on the quest too, wishing to make amends, but will ultimately find himself back in the company of his son.
Naturally, throughout the movie, the story and character development take second place to the over-the-top CGI and sheer senseless fun. The humour is unassuming, but nonetheless very enjoyable and witty. As the story progresses along its predictable path, we see Bowser, who now shows contrition for his deeds in the first film, being torn between a desire for moral improvement, and love for his son, a true chip off the ol’ block who proves to be perhaps more villainous than his father.
True to the Mario series, no form of imagination is off limits, and predictability plays a major role. Fans of the games will not be surprised to see a burgeoning romance between Mario and Princess Peach, which never ceases to warm the heart in its blissful simplicity. This is not a film for those seeking complex plot and serious character development, or really any kid of deeper meaning, but for fans of the video game series, a family seeking a fun day out or anyone who enjoys a blast of positive, colourful, theatrical joy, you will find a healthy dose of satisfaction here.
Also, be sure to stay tuned as the credits roll for not one, but two post-credits scenes, which lay the foundation for what may well be Mario’s next big outing.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Rated: PG
Distributor: Universal Pictures
In cinemas now
