The sequel to the record-breaking Mushroom Kingdom debut takes us into the cosmos. When a mysterious force scatters the gang across the galaxy, the Mario Bros. must navigate strange new worlds to reunite their friends. However, this isn’t just a rescue mission. It’s an intergalactic road trip where the scale of the universe might just be larger than the plot can handle.
Cast
The ensemble cast is undeniably packed. Glen Powell is an absolute riot as Star Fox. He trades the character’s usual “cool and collected” pilot persona for a cocky, high-energy swagger that surprisingly sticks the landing. Luis Guzman steals every single scene he’s in, providing a grounded humor that the film desperately needs. While new additions like Issa Rae, Brie Larson, Benny Safdie, and Donald Glover bring plenty of charisma to the table. The absence of Donkey Kong, a literal heavy hitter from the first film leaves a noticeable, banana-shaped hole in the dynamic.
Production
Visually, the film is a masterclass in “bright and shiny.” The animation is vibrant, popping with the kind of kinetic energy that will keep any child glued to the screen for 90 minutes. The soundtrack leans heavily into the sweeping, orchestral nostalgia of the games, and the camera work utilizes the gravity-defying physics of the galaxy setting to create some truly dizzying, imaginative sequences.
Review
While the film is a feast for the eyes, the narrative structure is a bit of a cosmic mess. The story splits into various subplots, sending duos drifting off to different corners of the universe. By the time the film tries to pull these threads back together for the finale, the momentum has unfortunately fizzled out.
The biggest pivot, however, is the characterization. In the first film, Princess Peach flipping the script to become a badass was a refreshing shock. Now? It feels like the Mario Bros. have been sidelined in their own franchise. This “rebrand” effectively turns the sequel into a Peach movie, curiously mirroring the Frozen trope of separated sisters finding their way back to one another. If you were hoping for the classic “damsel in distress” stakes, you won’t find them here.
Even the villains feel shifted. Bowser has been reduced to a caricature of his former self. Completely overshadowed by Bowser Jr., who takes the reins as the primary antagonist. And while the marketing would have you believe Yoshi is a lead player, his actual screen time is criminally short. Most frustrating is the handling of iconic power-ups. The Cape Mario and Red Star make appearances, but they are bypassed so quickly they never get the “spectacle” moment they deserve.
Overall, it’s a perfectly fine “streamer” for a rainy Sunday. The kids will love the colors and the chaos, but for the rest of us, it’s a narrative that didn’t need to be this overcomplicated.
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