Super Mario Galaxy Movie Review | Disclosure: I was invited to attend a film screening.
The top family vacation destination in the United States has seen some changes over the last few years. Specifically, a mustached face has become a fixed part of the scenery, popping up on billboards, in storefronts and, most noticeably, in the theme parks. The 2023 Mario Bros. movie helped launch both a cohesive revival for grown up generations and a lively introduction to the youths for these characters in a way Orlando has never seen. The 2025 opening of Epic Universe and the Super Nintendo World themed land at the park made Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and the others a permanent attraction. The colorful, nostalgic universe is back in theaters in 2026 with The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
This follow up to The Super Mario Bros. Movie introduces some new characters to the big screen. Though, if you’ve ventured through this world with a controller in your hands, you’ll be met with old friends.
Super Mario Galaxy Movie Review: A Cinematic Shining Star
Review: Is The Super Mario Galaxy Movie good? Is it worth watching?
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has a lot to power up to. This franchise that launched decades ago has multi-generational ties and is appreciated by people of all ages. That’s a feat with family friendly entertainment whether it be a movie or video game.
One sentence review: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is a cinematic shining star.
I’m boldly stating that I enjoyed this one more than its 2023 predecessor. It’s filled with surprises and adventure but feels more defined, relaxed and fun than The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Stakes are high and I like the plot lines but the characters feel more equipped for the moment. This invites viewers to get comfy and take in the hidden and overt references to Mario’s universe as they frequently pop up on screen.
Hearing a few notes of the beloved video game themes in scenes that respectively match the tones is a delight. The included sound effects from the games have a Pavlovian effect for many including me. Who doesn’t get a little rush from hearing the high pitched ‘ching’ of collecting a coin?
If you enjoyed seeing Peach challenge Mario to level up in training, this film creatively presents new moments to savor that look just like game levels.
Aside from finding favorite game references that make you want to point at the screen, the movie is just so pretty to look at. Rosalina’s story adds heart and strength but also so much that’s a delight to see.
Is The Super Mario Galaxy Movie as good as The Super Mario Bros. Movie?
I think it’s better. I’m not one who is familiar with any Super Mario Galaxy games. You don’t have to be to get this movie. Any familiarity with Mario, Luigi and friends is enough to feel part of the club.
For context, I love The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The colors, characters, sounds and references to popular video game visuals won me. I play Mario Kart on the Switch 2 every week and grew up with a Super Nintendo and a GameBoy. I appreciate the social experience of playing games with loved ones but I’m no expert or time trial whiz. Knowing all of that, I celebrate the captivating escapism these stories provide.
What characters are in Super Mario Galaxy? Who is in the cast?
Fans of the games know the roster for this universe. Without giving away surprises, these are the characters we know are in the film thanks to the trailers and movie posters:
- Mario (Chris Pratt)
- Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy)
- Luigi (Charlie Day)
- Toad (Keegan-Michael Key)
- Yoshi (Donald Glover)
- Rosalina (Brie Larson)
- Honey Queen (Issa Rae)
- Bowser (Jack Black)
- Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie)
- Kamek (Kevin Michael Richardson)
- Wart (Luis Guzmán)
- Fox McCloud (Glen Powell)
- Lumalee (Juliet Jelenic)
- R.O.B. (Ed Skudder)
How long is the movie?
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is 1 hour and 38 minutes long.
This is just a few minutes longer than the 2023 Mario movie which is 1 hour and 32 minutes in length.
Does Super Mario Galaxy have the same director? Writer?
Yes, both films are directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic and written by Matthew Vogel.
Is the new Mario movie inspired by a game?
Yes. The first Super Mario Galaxy game was released in 2007 for the Nintendo Wii. Like other games, it’s possible to revisit it and play on the most recent console, the Nintendo Switch 2.
When does the 2026 Mario movie come out?
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is in theaters April 1, 2026.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Universal Orlando Tie Ins
Seeing The Super Mario Galaxy Movie before your Universal Orlando Resort visit is a great idea. The Mario themed land is an explosion of color, kinetic stimulus and familiar scenes if you’ve played any of the games.
You don’t need to see this or 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie to appreciate what Universal has created. There may be some references to the 2026 film in the parks on your visit if you’re there around its debut in theaters though. Specifically through April 13.
You may see the following in Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe:
- a Yoshi meet and greet. It’s the first time the beloved character is meeting visitors at Universal Orlando Resort.
- the Rosalina Cupcake at Toadstool Cafe. This is a blue velvet cupcake filled with blueberry cheesecake and lemon buttercream with a chocolate crown and star topper.
- Galaxy Popcorn which is a multicolor berry flavor popcorn that has edible glitter on it. This is available at Turbo-Boost Treats on the second level next to the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride.
- Yellow and blue Luma shoulder pals available for purchase. They light up, make sounds and interact with each other.
Universal City Walk is also a peak viewing location for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie with more theming and photo ops than you’ll find elsewhere.
Related: You will find some of the Best Epic Universe Snacks You Have to Try in Super Nintendo World.
