'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' First Reactions: Mixed Reviews

Universal Pictures allowed press and others to post their initial reactions on social media on Monday, ahead of the full reviews embargo lifting on Tuesday.

The film, a sequel to the 2023 hit 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie', tells a new adventure of Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach against Bowser and his son Bowser Jr., this time in the galaxy. The story introduces new characters like Princess Rosalina and Yoshi, a Nintendo icon.

The core voice cast returns, including Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, Jack Black as Bowser, and Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, along with new additions such as Benny Safdie, Issa Rae, Brie Larson, Glen Powell, and Donald Glover.

Despite the mixed initial reactions, Universal and Nintendo hope that 'Galaxy' will follow the path of the 2023 film, which was a global phenomenon, grossing $1.36 billion, against a production budget of $100 million.

The original 'Super Mario Bros.' film also didn't fare well with critics, earning a 59% on Rotten Tomatoes, although it achieved a 95% approval rating from audiences.

'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' is scheduled for release on April 1st.

Opinions on social media vary, with some critics expressing their disappointment. Andrew J. Salazar (@AndrewJ626) commented: "For a movie purely designed to jingle keys in front of an audience… it’s somehow pretty bad at that too."

Other critics, like The HoloFiles (@theholofiles), highlighted the faithful recreation of the visuals from the Nintendo games but mentioned plot and pacing issues. Tyler "llewyn" Taing (@tylerllewtaing) described the film as a mixed bag, with stronger aspects than the first, but feeling that the adaptation of 'Galaxy' is an afterthought.

Some critics, such as Junior Felix (@JuniorFett), called it a "gloriously fun sequel", full of nostalgia, while Charles Bramesco (@intothecrevasse) described it as "whatever".

Jonathan Sim (@TheJonathanSim) stated that the film is even better than the first, with bigger action set pieces and an excellent soundtrack. Manuel São Bento (@manuelsbento) said that the film is a place where we can all become children again.

Tom Chatalbash (@TomChatalbash) described it as "surprisingly A LOT better" than its predecessor, with exciting characters and vibrant visuals. Christopher Gallardo (@chrisagwrites) praised the film for being whimsical, vibrant, and fun, highlighting Jack Black and Donald Glover's performances.

Hunter Bolding (@HunterBVideo) described it as a blast of color and amazing imagery, while Tessa Smith (@MamasGeeky) highlighted the abundance of Easter eggs and Nintendo references.

Kristen Maldonado (@kaymaldo) found the film fun, but lacking depth, while Maggie_in_LA (@MaggieM_in_LA) called it very fun, highlighting adorable characters and funny jokes.

Cris Parker (@3CFilmss) mentioned that the story feels chaotic and unfocused, but still enjoyed the film. Andy Robinson (@Andy_VGC) stated that the film is an improvement in some ways and more of the same in others, with great animation and soundtrack.

Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) noted issues with the story and pacing. Finally, MOVIEDEATHS (@MOVIEDEATHBLOWS) described it as a dazzling animation spectacle and one of the most fun theatrical experiences of the year.