POPULAR VIDEO GAME TO MOVIE THEATERS MADNESS

Conversely, Tang acknowledges that Easter eggs, while exciting for enthusiastic fans, can potentially isolate new viewers.

“If you’re a massive Super Mario fan, then yeah [I would recommend watching the movie],” Tang said. “But if you’re a casual [fan], you play it once in a while, then probably not.”

While some elements may be lost on casual viewers, in our experience as people that are relatively new to the franchise, the overall viewing experience is left relatively intact. Because the Easter eggs are not the explicit focus of most scenes, viewers will not be confused by them.

As with any movie that is based on a pre existing form of media, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” was tasked with striking a balance between integrating the past and creating its own narrative. Senior Everett Hentz appreciated this contemporary take on the classic series.

“[The] Movie is better; it’s just more newer,” Hentz said. “The game is kind of old, a little bit old school. The movie is just better.”

Concerns

While the animation and Easter eggs are exciting features, one of the movie’s few weaknesses is the plot, which is relatively straightforward and predictable. Tang was similarly unimpressed by the storyline and writing.

“I felt that the movie was…a little bit scripted…it did not feel real,” Tang said. “Jack Black being Bowser made it worse because I know Jack Black [as] being really funny. But for me, his jokes sounded really scripted.”

While the movie primarily takes place in the Mushroom Kingdom, the beginning and ultimate fight scene are set in an animated Brooklyn. The transition from the Kingdom, which most fans of the game are familiar with, to a real life city, was slightly confusing and off putting, especially given that no justification was ever given for the choice of location. Beyond a simple plot and the seemingly random inclusion of Brooklyn lies an intricately constructed film. Overall, whether you are a lifetime Mario fan, a fan of lighthearted comedies or just looking for a way to spend your Friday night, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” has something for you to enjoy. v