The Super Mario Bros. Movie | Title Explanation

In this segment of our Colossus Movie Guide for The Super Mario Bros. Movie, we delve into the significance of the film’s title.

Cast

• Mario – Chris Pratt
• Luigi – Charlie Day
• Princess Peach – Anya Taylor-Joy
• Toad – Keegan-Michael Key
• Donkey Kong – Seth Rogen
• Cranky Kong – Fred Armisen
• Bowser – Jack Black
• Written by – Matthew Fogel
• Directed by – Aaron Horvath | Michael Jelenic

Why is the movie called The Super Mario Bros. Movie?

In 1993, Disney, through its labels, released Super Mario Bros., also known as Super Mario Bros: The Movie. Believe it or not, no one had ever adapted a video game into a live-action film. This was the very first one. And a disaster. It was a dark, Verhoeven/Gilliam-esque nightmare that ditched all the bright fun of the Mario games. No one was happy with it. Not even the cast or filmmakers. The tragic nature of such an auspicious property has made the film infamous. Even a bit of a cult hit. 

The Super Mario Bros. Movie could have claimed the simple version of the name. It’s been 30 years. But it seems they shied away from that, opting instead for something a little longer, a little clunkier.

Within the world of the film, Mario and Luigi have their company, Super Mario Bros. Plumbing and people sometimes refer to them as the Super Mario Bros. So there’s some narrative support for the title. Though it is surprising, especially with the emphasis on Mario, that they didn’t go with Super Mario World and make a clean and clear demarcation from the 1993 film. But, as Mario and Luigi always say, together, they can do anything. 

Share Your Opinions

Do you have additional insights regarding the title that you believe should be incorporated into the Colossus Movie Guide for The Super Mario Bros. Movie? Leave your comments below, and we may include your suggestions in our comprehensive guide.