FEATURE | Exploring the Many Adaptations of Mario and Luigi in Film and Television

MARIO and Luigi may have started out as pixelated plumbers in the gaming industry, but the iconic plumber duo has also made their mark in other forms of media, including film and television. While some of these appearances have been memorable, others have left a less-than-stellar impression on audiences.

One of the most notable adaptations of the Mario Bros was the 1993 film Super Mario Bros.: The Movie directed by Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel, the film was a live-action adaptation of the popular game franchise. Bob Hoskins played Mario, while John Leguizamo portrayed Luigi. The film followed the duo as they navigated a parallel universe ruled by a tyrannical president, played by Dennis Hopper. Despite the impressive cast and production value, the film was a commercial and critical flop, failing to capture the magic of the games it was based on.

Many had criticised the film's dark and gritty tone, which was a departure from the lighthearted and colorful world of the games. The convoluted plot and confusing character motivations were also heavily criticised. Despite the negative reception, the film has gained a cult following over the years for its campy and ridiculous elements.

Another notable adaptation of the Mario Bros was The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! which aired from 1989 to 1991. The show was a combination of live-action skits and animated segments that featured the Mario Bros alongside characters like Princess Toadstool and King Koopa. The animated segments followed the adventures of Mario and Luigi as they attempted to save the Mushroom Kingdom from the clutches of King Koopa. 

While the show was a hit with younger audiences, it received mixed reviews from critics with some praising its comedic elements and others criticising the poor animation quality. However, the show remains a beloved part of many fans' childhoods and has become a nostalgic staple of the 80s and 90s pop culture with full episodes available to view on YouTube. 

Another notable appearance of the Mario Bros was in the 1989 film The Wizard. While the film was not a direct adaptation of the game franchise, it prominently featured Super Mario Bros. 3, which was not yet available to the public and a highly anticipated game at the time.

The film followed the story of a young boy named Jimmy as he traveled across the country to participate in a video game tournament. The film's climax saw Jimmy and his friends competing in a gaming tournament where they played Super Mario Bros. 3 for the first time. The film's use of the game as a plot device helped to increase anticipation for its release, making it one of the most successful games of all time.

The film was praised for its use of video game culture and the excitement it generated for the release of Super Mario Bros. 3. However, the plot and acting received mixed reviews. Despite this, the film remains a nostalgic classic for many fans of the Super Mario Bros. franchise.

This brings us to the present with the new Super Mario Bros. movie set to release on April 5, 2023, it's clear that the brothers' adventures through the silver screen are far from over. Based on the trailers, the new movie looks to finally bring our beloved plumbers to follow closely to its video game iteration, with a few surprises in tow.

The story follows a Brooklyn plumber named Mario who travels through the Mushroom Kingdom with a princess named Peach and an anthropomorphic mushroom named Toad to find Mario's brother, Luigi, and to save the world from a ruthless fire-breathing Koopa named Bowser.

The upcoming Super Mario Bros. movie is directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic and features a star-studded cast including Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong, Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek and Sebastian Maniscalco as Spike. Produced by Illumination and Nintendo, the film will be co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo and released worldwide by Universal Pictures.

While the Mario Bros have had mixed success in other forms of media, their impact on the gaming industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. From their iconic catchphrases to their unforgettable adventures, Mario and Luigi continue to captivate audiences of all ages. — Geeks Republika