Media Reception

 


 

This page lists the initial reaction and reception to Super Mario Bros. from the media in the form of reviews, articles, and video after its initial release in 1993, all the way up to the present. A series of "Featured Articles"--which contain exceptionally thorough or useful information--are designated with an awesome Bob-Omb graphic.
- Featured Articles

 

Newspapers - Magazines - TV and Video

 

NEWSPAPER RECEPTION

Newspaper
Country
Score
Review Clip
USA
1.5 / 5
Short review that's generally positive, though raising the usual complaint of a poorly-written script where all the funny parts were highlighted in the trailer. The cast is said to be good, the special effects great, and the sets a brilliant "Blade Runner."
USA
2.4 / 4
A generally positive review in that nearly every element of the film is praised, particularly the visual effects and set design. However, the proliferation of all these elements results in a film without focus. Rather, it is an attempt at achieving more and more and in the process loses sight of what's already been established.
USA
2.5 / 4
The article from The Charlotte Observer also ran (with slightly shorter text) in the the Albany, NY Times Union under the alternate headline of ''SUPER MARIO BROS.' LOUD, BUT FILM'S JUST A BOMB'.
USA
2 / 4
A so-so review of the film that states the special effects more than make-up for the lacking plot.


USA
4 / 5
An extremely positive review praising the "computer-graphics wizardry," actors and the work put into creating a concept from a storyless game.
"You can enjoy this arcade of fun-loving fantasy without knowing a Goomba from a Koopa from a regular lollapalooza."
USA
1.5 / 4
A so-so review of the film that states the special effects more than make-up for the lacking plot.
USA
1 / 4
This reviewer (Lloyd Paseman) didn't enjoy the film, citing the writing and direction as major detractors.
USA
No score
The film is neutrally examined, with comparisons to Blue Velvet (a Lynch-directed Hopper flilm) and praise given to the concept of the fungus and the acting of Shaw, Leguizamo and Hoskins.
USA
7 / 10
In retrospect, this article is an absolute gem--a group of kid critics share their thoughts on the newly-released Super Mario Bros. Did they like it or were they confused? Read the article to find out...
USA
No score
A so-so review from the LA Times, praising the cinematography and production design, while criticizing the writing.


Malaysia
No score
A glowing review of the film from Malaysian newspaper the New Straits Times.
When Star Wars meets Indiana Jones, Italian style"
USA
3 / 5
A NY Times account is needed to view this article. It focuses primarily on the oversaturation of special effects and the loss of the spirit inherent to the games. Positive comments focus on more subtle qualities of the film, such as skill with which the actors play their roles (particular Richard Edson and Fisher Stevens) and sly touches of political satire and other jokes. Overall, she rates the movie well.
USA
No score
Short description of the film around the time of its initial release.
USA
1.5 / 4
A negative review describing the film as having an "unintelligible plot," though suggesting this makes for a "worthy inspiration" considering the source medium (at the time) generally not having original narratives or well-developed characters. The casting is "interesting" but none of the actors are thought to have acted well as their characters.
USA
No score
A negative review that nonetheless appreciates the acting of Hoskins, Leguizamo and Hopper, but seems to view the prospect of a video game-to-film adaptation as a sign of a decline in the intelligence of audiences.
USA
No Score
Highly negative review criticizing the narrative of the film (a common complaint), but admitting the games themselves were non-narrative. Suggests every actor was mis-cast, particular Hopper, and that none but Fiona Shaw acted well. Ends with mentioning as an aside that the morphing effects were an "OK job," Yoshi was cute, the sound is quality, and the sets are striking.


USA
No score
One of the most positive reviews for Super Mario Bros, this is where the infamous "It's a Blast!" line originates.


 

MAGAZINE RECEPTION

Magazine
Country
Score
Review Clip
USA
1 / 4
Unlike most other reviews from the time, Matt Brunson criticizes the set design, endearing Goombas and acting of the main cast. These, it seems, are natural consequences of a lacking script that rushes into the action without first properly developing the characters.
UK
2 / 5
A run-down of the plot culminating in minor praise for the special effects, including Yoshi and the de-evolution effects, but the assertion that it lends nothing to the overall story.
The original, unedited version of this review can be read on the site here.
USA
No Score
A short review claiming the action, dialogue and characters are on a "point-and-shoot" level while the "chintzy" production design must have been imagined by a 2-year-old.
"Cliff" Competition segment - A brief rundown of the May 28 - May 31 box-intake of the film.
The Ridiculist - A cute non-review presenting the movie several mock awards.
USA
No Score
Someone defending the SMB movie... Must be one of us!


 

VIDEO AND TV RECEPTION

Program
Country
Score
Review Clip
USA
No Score
The official Siskel and Ebert review. They didn't like it.
At the Movies 1993 - Worst of '93 - Siskel and Ebert revisit Super Mario Bros. in their "Worst of '93" special. Hilariously, it's the very first movie highlighted.


 

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