I like the Super Mario Brothers movie even though it is widely considered bad because it holds a special place in my heart as a nostalgic and unique experience that goes beyond typical movie quality. The film, despite its flaws, captures the spirit of the beloved video game franchise in a way that feels like a tribute to fans, with many references and elements that celebrate the Mario universe[2]. This connection to the source material makes watching it enjoyable, especially for those who grew up playing the games.
One reason I appreciate the movie is its imaginative world-building. The film transports Mario and Luigi from their familiar Brooklyn setting into a fantastical Mushroom Kingdom filled with colorful characters and creative environments. Even though the story and execution might be lacking, the visual transition from a realistic city to a vibrant fantasy realm is fascinating and visually engaging[1]. The animation and color grading work, especially in the newer adaptations, enhance this effect by making the fantasy world feel alive and cinematic[1].
The characters, while sometimes portrayed in odd or exaggerated ways, bring a certain charm. Mario and Luigi’s brotherly bond and their determination to save Princess Peach (or Daisy in the 1993 version) provide a simple but heartfelt core to the story[3][6]. The villains, like Bowser or King Koopa, are over-the-top but memorable, adding to the campy fun of the movie. The voice acting in the newer movie, with actors like Chris Pratt and Jack Black, adds humor and personality that can be appreciated even if the plot is thin[2].
Another aspect I enjoy is the movie’s role as a cultural artifact. The 1993 Super Mario Bros. film, for example, is a curious piece of film history because it was one of the first attempts to adapt a video game into a live-action movie. Its ambitious but flawed approach makes it interesting to watch as a case study in how video game adaptations have evolved over time[3][6]. The newer animated movie, while more polished, still carries the legacy of Mario’s impact on pop culture and gaming history[1][2].
The movie also offers a kind of guilty pleasure. Its imperfections, such as awkward dialogue, strange plot choices, or uneven pacing, can be entertaining in their own right. Watching it can feel like sharing an inside joke with other fans who recognize the movie’s quirks and flaws but still enjoy it for what it is. This communal appreciation adds to the fun and makes the movie more than just a bad film; it becomes a cult favorite[3][7].
Finally, the movie’s success in bringing Mario to the big screen in a way that resonates with audiences, despite critical reviews, shows that it has value beyond traditional measures of quality. The recent animated Super Mario Bros. movie grossed over a billion dollars and received positive audience feedback, proving that the character and story still have strong appeal[2]. This success reflects the enduring love for Mario and the joy that the movie can bring, even if it is not perfect.
In summary, I like the Super Mario Brothers movie because it connects me to a beloved franchise, offers imaginative and colorful worlds, features charming characters, serves as an interesting cultural artifact, provides entertaining flaws, and demonstrates the lasting appeal of Mario in popular culture. These factors combine to make the movie enjoyable and meaningful to me, despite its reputation as a bad film.
