Product: Super Mario Bros. [VHS] (1993)
Rating: 5.0
An Undeniable Cult Presence
Super Mario Bros. really does have an undeserved bad reputation. People look at it and either remember it fondly as kids' stuff or as some assault on their childhood. It's not wholly like the games, so people figure it has no merits on its own.However, the film really does have a lot more going for it than people realize. It gets the basics of the games from story to characerization down rather well, even if it's visually different. It's well written and fun with some admirable early attempts at CG-work. In fact, it was shortlisted for a VFX Oscar and would have gone up against Jurassic Park had Disney not lobbied hard to have A Nightmare Before Christmas entered into that category.It may have its faults, but you just need to look at it in the right way. All of the elements are there for a great film, but due to the producers and Disney over 30 minutes of crucial plot points were cut out. The film is a shadow of what it could have been, but in the end it's still something fun and enjoyable.The Super Mario Bros. The Movie Archive, a fansite dedicated to the film, is a testament to its cult endurance. Ongoing since 2007, the site features early scripts, concept art and even exclusive interviews with the cast & crew. They're planning several theatrical screening events across the country this year to push for a director's cut re-release. There's a lot to appreciate. It'd be a shame if that wasn't recognized.