The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Devoted followers of the franchise may wonder how anyone could have missed the last 40 years of Mario’s adventures. Yet, for those eager to join Mario (Chris Pratt), Luigi (Charlie Day), and Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) on their latest journey, the more familiar you are with this universe, the more rewarding the experience will be. 

From the opening moments, audiences are introduced to Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson), who resides in her own celestial realm surrounded by the star-like Lumas. Her peaceful existence is soon disrupted by Bowser Jr (Benny Safdie), who seeks to free his father, Bowser (Jack Black), from imprisonment in Princess Peach’s castle. Rosalina’s abduction sets off a galaxy-hopping adventure that draws in the Mario brothers, along with familiar and new allies such as Yoshi (Donald Glover) and Fox McCloud (Glen Powell), in a race to rescue her. 

For those immersed in the Mario universe, there is a genuine sense of delight in seeing beloved characters appear on screen. The film embraces its expansive world, leaping between settings and introducing figures with little explanation—assuming a level of audience familiarity. While there are brief moments of context, much of the deeper significance will resonate most strongly with dedicated fans of the games. 

Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (Teen Titans Go!) lean confidently into the franchise’s established fan base, crafting a fast-paced rescue mission that celebrates its source material. However, for viewers less acquainted with the video game world, the film may feel somewhat overwhelming. The narrative moves quickly from planet to planet, adding characters along the way, often at the expense of depth, as it races towards a predictable conclusion. 

Even so, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will satisfy those eager to see Mario face Bowser once more and explore the ongoing dynamic between Mario and Princess Peach. This vibrant, animated journey is likely to spark renewed interest in the games while introducing a new generation to these iconic characters and their ever-expanding universe. 

REEL DIALOGUE: What does it mean to be a father to your children? 

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.” — Psalm 127:3–5 

It may come as a surprise, but The Super Mario Galaxy Movie touches on themes of fatherhood. At the centre of Bowser Jr’s actions is a deep desire to win the approval of his father. In turn, Bowser’s own attempts—however flawed—to be a better father emerge throughout the story. These elements may prompt fathers watching the film with their children to reflect on what it truly means to be a dad. 

One often overlooked aspect of fatherhood is that it is not only a responsibility but also a privilege. Children are a blessing. While the challenges of parenting—from sleepless nights to everyday mishaps—can feel overwhelming, these moments should not overshadow the gift that children are in our lives. 

Fatherhood is an opportunity to be embraced with humility and intention. It is a calling to become the men our children need us to be. Though some days are more difficult than others, the Bible offers guidance for raising and nurturing our children, while prayer provides comfort and strength in every circumstance. 

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” – Joshua 24:15 

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