The Super Mario Bros. movie is a classic example of how not to adapt a video game into a film. Released in 1993, the movie was a critical and commercial failure, with fans of the beloved video game franchise left disappointed and confused by the bizarre and convoluted plot.
However, with the recent announcement of a new Super Mario Bros. movie in development by Illumination Entertainment, the studio behind the Despicable Me and Minions franchises, there is hope that this time around, the gold standard for video game films will be set.
The key to success for the new Super Mario Bros. movie lies in staying true to the source material. The original video game, released in 1985, is a simple yet iconic story of two Italian plumbers, Mario and Luigi, on a mission to rescue Princess Toadstool from the evil Bowser in the Mushroom Kingdom.
The new movie should focus on this core storyline, while also incorporating the colorful and imaginative world of the video game. The Mushroom Kingdom is a vibrant and fantastical place, filled with unique characters and creatures, and the film should embrace this whimsical and playful tone.
Another important aspect of the new Super Mario Bros. movie is the casting. The original film featured Bob Hoskins as Mario and John Leguizamo as Luigi, but their performances were criticized for being too serious and lacking the humor and charm of the video game characters.
For the new movie, the casting should prioritize actors who can capture the spirit and personality of the beloved characters. Fans have already suggested actors like Danny DeVito as Mario and Charlie Day as Luigi, and their comedic talents would be a perfect fit for the roles.
Finally, the new Super Mario Bros. movie should also take advantage of modern technology to create stunning visual effects and bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life. The video game franchise has evolved over the years, with each new installment featuring more advanced graphics and gameplay, and the film should reflect this evolution.
Overall, the new Super Mario Bros. movie has the potential to set a new gold standard for video game films. By staying true to the source material, casting the right actors, and utilizing modern technology, the film can capture the magic and nostalgia of the video game franchise while also appealing to a new generation of fans.