THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE (2026)

Genre: CG Animation
Director:  Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic
Cast: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Benny Safdie, Kevin Michael Richardson, Brie Larson
Runtime: 1 hr 38 mins
Rating: PG (Some Violence)
Released By: UIP
Official Website: 

Opening Day: 1 April 2026

Synopsis: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is an animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros., and follows The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which was released in 2023 and earned more than $1.3 billion worldwide. Both the 2023 film and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie are produced by Chris Meledandri of Illumination and Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo. 

Movie Review:

With The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, one might reasonably expect another straightforward adventure led by gaming’s most recognisable plumber. Yet, somewhat surprisingly, this reviewer finds the film’s most engaging characters to be Bowser and Bowser Jr., whose dynamic brings an unexpected emotional core to an otherwise spectacle-driven ride. Voiced with gusto by Jack Black and Benny Safdie, the villainous duo are not just maniacal antagonists, but a strangely endearing father-and-son pairing. Their relationship provides moments of sincerity amid their chaotic schemes.

By comparison, beloved heroes like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach feel somewhat underserved. While they remain central to the action, their character arcs are minimal. But perhaps that is not the point. This is not a film that demands to be dissected for narrative depth. Instead, it embraces a simpler goal: to entertain, dazzle, and keep audiences — especially younger ones — fully engaged from start to finish.

The story itself unfolds in a familiar, predictable fashion, ticking all the boxes of a family-friendly adventure. Conflicts arise, obstacles are overcome, and problems are solved right on cue. Yet the predictability will not detract from the experience for the masses. The film is designed as a visual playground, where one vibrant set piece leads seamlessly into another, ensuring there is never a dull moment.

Visually, the film is a feast. The animation is nothing short of gorgeous, with each frame packed with detail. Thanks to animation studio Illumination, colours burst off the screen in dazzling hues, creating a consistently high-energy atmosphere that rarely lets up. It’s the kind of film where your eyes are constantly darting across the screen, trying to take in every moving part. This is also a testament to the creativity that has long defined Nintendo’s universe.

Then there are the characters who exist purely to delight. Yoshi is as adorable as ever, practically engineered to inspire merchandise. The Lumas, with their glowing forms and childlike speech, are equally irresistible. It is easy to imagine them lighting up your bedroom with their gentle glow.

For longtime fans, the film is also packed with nods and references. Familiar elements from across the Mario universe are sprinkled throughout, rewarding those who have grown up with the games. Meanwhile, the appearance of Fox McCloud (from Nintendo’s Star Fox series) — voiced with smooth confidence by Glen Powell — adds an extra layer of appeal, especially with a swagger that feels reminiscent of his more charismatic screen roles.

Ultimately, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is less about storytelling and more about experience. It delivers a colourful, high-energy ride that prioritises fun over depth. For fans of the franchise, it’s a joyous celebration filled with recognisable faces and playful surprises. For everyone else, it’s an energetic, visually rich escape — the kind of film that overwhelms the senses in the most entertaining way, even if it doesn’t linger long after the adventure ends.

Movie Rating:

(A dazzling, high-energy adventure where spectacle shines brighter than story — and for this franchise, that may be more than enough)

Review by John Li