40 years of Mario & Princess Peach
This month is the 40th Anniversary of The Super Mario Bros. Games, so to celebrate and to celebrate the announcement of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Jason Wright looks back at The Super Mario Bros. Movie from 2023.
As someone who grew up spending countless hours jumping through pipes, dodging Goombas, and saving Princess Peach, The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) was an absolute joy to watch. From the very first frame, the film captures the vibrant, whimsical world that made the games so iconic, translating the magic of the Mushroom Kingdom to the big screen in a way that feels both faithful and fresh.
Chris Pratt’s Mario and Charlie Day’s Luigi bring humour and heart to their roles, but the real highlights for me were Jack Black as Bowser and Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach. Jack Black is absolutely electric, larger-than-life, and hilariously over-the-top, with his iconic song being a showstopper that had me laughing, cheering, and singing along. Meanwhile, Anya Taylor-Joy gives Peach a sweetness and charm that’s genuinely endearing, making her more than just a damsel in distress—she’s relatable, brave, and a joy to watch.
The movie nails the nostalgia factor, with clever nods to classic levels, power-ups, and music that transported me straight back to my childhood. Yet, it also tells a modern, engaging story that newcomers can enjoy just as much as long-time fans. The visuals are stunning, the pacing is perfect, and the humour lands for both kids and adults.
Overall, The Super Mario Bros. Movie isn’t just a tribute to a legendary franchise—it’s a celebration of the joy, chaos, and creativity that has made Mario a part of so many childhoods. With Jack Black stealing the show as Bowser, Anya Taylor-Joy giving Peach her heart-warming charm, and every frame dripping with nostalgic love, I left the cinema grinning from ear to ear.
Truly, a must-watch for anyone who’s ever held a controller and dreamed of jumping into the Mushroom Kingdom.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie from 2023 is available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Sky Store
