Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Colorful adventure is a bit more violent than the games.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
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The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 82 parent reviews
Parents say that the movie elicits a mix of nostalgia and criticism; while many enjoy its humor, animation, and family-friendly approach, others express concern over its violence, portrayal of relationships, and some inappropriate content for younger audiences. Despite strong family appeal, some reviews indicate that it could be unnerving for sensitive kids and highlight issues such as outdated gender roles and casual violence that may not be suitable for all viewers.
- nostalgia
- family-friendly
- concerns over violence
- relationship portrayal
- sensitive content
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 112 kid reviews
Kids say this film is enjoyable and amusing, showcasing excellent animation while delivering a mix of humor and action appropriate for all ages. However, opinions are divided, with some praising its references to the games and characters, while others criticize its predictable plot and character portrayal, particularly questioning the depiction of Princess Peach's role.
- funny and animated
- references to games
- family-friendly
- mixed opinions
- predictable plot
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE, Brooklyn plumbers Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) and his younger brother, Luigi (Charlie Day), fall down a mysterious portal and wind up separated inside a magical world. Mario lands in the Mushroom Kingdom, which is ruled by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), who's strategizing how to prevent her land from being conquered by the nefarious Bowser (Jack Black). When Mario realizes that Luigi has likely been taken prisoner by Bowser, he and Peach team up to save his brother and her people.
Is It Any Good?
Nintendo fans will feel like they grabbed a Super Star while watching this brightly colored magical adventure, which mashes several Mario games up into a full storyline. But for viewers who are less familiar, sitting through The Super Mario Bros. Movie may feel like watching a second grader play a Mario game: It's cute, but you can't help thinking about all the other things you could be doing with your time. Making movies based on video games that have beloved characters and a built-in fan base seems like a natural choice, but not many do it well (exceptions include Sonic the Hedgehog and Detective Pikachu), and The Super Mario Bros. Movie doesn't depart from that norm.
While it is fun to see the brothers in their "real life" environment in Brooklyn -- working as plumbers and living at home with their big Italian family -- as well as how the filmmakers incorporate elements of the games, the film isn't funny or creative enough to satisfy most teens or adults. Moreover, the child-friendly animation style is a tad misleading, as directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic up the scare factor, making Bowser and his minions more terrifying than they need to be. There's plenty of excitement, nonstop action, and colorful images, but this project as a whole doesn't exactly level up.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the cartoon action in The Super Mario Bros. Movie compares to that of others you've seen. Does this kind of violence have more or less impact than what's in live-action movies?
What moments did you recognize from the games? If you're a fan of the games, create your own story about Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.
Talk about the behavior Mario and Luigi experience in Brooklyn. Is Spike bullying them? Is there a difference between that and how Mario's family speaks to the brothers? What's the difference between bullying and razzing, if there is one? What should you do if someone is trying to put you down?
How do Mario and Peach demonstrate perseverance, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character traits and life skills? Do you think video games teach you perseverance? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 5, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : June 13, 2023
- Cast : Chris Pratt , Anya Taylor-Joy , Charlie Day
- Directors : Aaron Horvath , Michael Jelenic
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 92 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action and mild violence
- Award : Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : December 24, 2025
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