The Mushroom Kingdom just got even bigger. Illumination and Nintendo‘s “The Super Mario Galaxy,” is now in theaters. Following the massive success of the first film 2023’s The Super Mario Bros.Movie, the duo is back. Mario and Luigi and their crew return in a new adventure that takes the characters beyond the Mushroom Kingdom, delivering new challenges and a sense of nostalgia.  

After the events of the first film, Browser’s son (Brower Jr.) is determined to avenge his family legacy and rescue his father. Along the way, the brothers encounter both new allies and familiar faces as they journey across the galaxy. Facing unexpected dangers and expanding their world far beyond anything they’ve experienced before.  
Once the film begins, it rarely slows down. At just one hour and Thirty-Eight Minutes, The Super Mario Galaxy moves at a nonstop pace from beginning to the final scene. Like its predecessor, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the energy is crazy. Something that may be a drawback for some viewers. That fast pace works as both a strength and a weakness.

On one hand, it pulls the audience into an exciting high speed ride that keeps the adventure engaging. Throughout the film the story can feel underdeveloped at times. There are key moments where character arcs are not getting the depth they deserve. Introduction of fan favorite characters including Rosalina (Brie Larson), Yoshi (Donald Glover), and Fox McCloud (Glen Powell). Each brings something unique to the story as Mario and Luigi dive deeper into the galaxy.

The film’s most memorable moments come from how it introduces and develops its characters. Fox McCloud makes a standout entrance with a 2D comic book-style intro that feels visually fresh and different from the rest of the film, giving his character an instant edge. Meanwhile, Rosalina’s opening scene alongside Bowser Jr. and Bowser adds emotional weight early on, setting the tone for the story. The father-son moments between Bowser and Bowser Jr. are surprisingly heartfelt, adding depth to characters who are often just seen as villains. These scenes help balance the film’s fast-paced action with more meaningful character-driven moments, even if they are a bit brief.

Overall, The Super Mario Galaxy is a film I genuinely enjoyed. Going into watching the film my main goal was simple to have a great time and it absolutely delivered on that. While the story and pacing don’t always hit the mark. The Film makes up for it with heart, energy, and stunning visuals. It’s truly a visual feast that brings the galaxy to life in new exciting new ways.