The Super Mario Galaxy Movie * A Sequel That Stacks Up To The Original And Beyond!
April 2nd, 2026
Mario and Luigi, the twin plumbers, apply their “let’s-a-go” attitude to solve everyday problems all over their new home of the Mushroom Kingdom. As they support Princess Peach, and work to reform a miniaturized imprisoned Bowser, they meet a new companion – Yoshi. Princess Peach’s birthday party sparks a galactic adventure, sending the brothers into space to stop Bowser Jr.’s wicked ambitions and save Rosalina. The addition of the beloved characters Rosalina and Bowser Jr. adds extra spice of big action, comedy, and some shocking revelations to the adventure!
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.” Valerie M. adds, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next.” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie. From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.” See their full reviews below.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Jackson N. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
Welcome back to the Mushroom Kingdom! The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie continues the stories of Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), two brothers who now, after the events of the first movie, live in the Mushroom Kingdom. They are traveling across the world to help people with warp pipe issues and, along the way, they meet a cute new travel companion, Yoshi (Donald Glover). They soon return to the Mushroom Kingdom and find a Luma, a star, that tells them that Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson) is in danger. Going to save the princess, Mario, Luigi, Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), and Yoshi, set off to explore the galaxy.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has some of the funniest references in the saga. In the Gateway Galaxy, for example, in the opening scene, you see basically every side character in Mario history, the Piantas from the Super Mario Sunshine game, and so many more. Then, when they get to the space port, Nintendo does the unthinkable: they include characters from their other games. Overall, as someone who played a lot of the old games, every little detail is really fun to see incorporated into the movie. Another funny Easter egg is towards the end of the film – Mario uses the Red Star, which gives him the ability to fly around, this is a particularly good detail because this was a special power-up in both Mario Galaxy games and is a great nod for fans. Each galaxy is beautifully designed by Illumination, the studio behind both Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets. The movie includes tons of nods to the games, like the Honeyhive Galaxy, featured in the original Mario Galaxy game, where they meet the Queen Bee (Issa Rae) and Bowser (Jack Black) makes the ultimate sacrifice.
The film’s main message is that with friends you can do anything. It includes themes of teamwork, play fighting, and family bonds. While the movie is suited for children, parents should be aware that the film includes some violence, like when Bowser falls into the lava, but the film makes it fun and suitable for everyone.
I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theatres on April 1, 2026.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12
I love The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The film’s writing, animation and comedy is really out of this world! (Pun intended.)
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie follows the brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), as well as Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy). Two incidents occur in the Mushroom Kingdom: Rosalina’s (Brie Larson) star child asks Princess Peach to help save her from an unknown danger, and Bowser Junior (Benny Safdie) takes Princess Peach’s castle trying to free his father Bowser (Jack Black). These events take the characters into space, searching for Rosalina and trying to save her from whatever danger she may be in.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next. While trying to save Rosalina, Peach keeps wondering where she came from. Along the way, we get clues and hints about her origins. It’s like a scavenger hunt inside a movie. If you want to find out more, you’ll just have to watch the film! The film also uses the many possibilities of being in space to its advantage by taking the brothers and princess on side missions that make the story more chaotic, thrilling and, don’t forget, fun. A good story is nice, but creativity in animation is what makes a good film even greater, and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie does not disappoint! For the most part, the animation style doesn’t change from its clean 3D look. What catches my eye is that there are times where we go into whole other mediums: puppet shows, storybooks that look like something you could find in an actual library, comic books, and even a callback to the original pixelated Super Mario games! All this mixing and matching really gives the film a special charm of playing a game for the first time. The jokes don’t always land and the film’s pacing doesn’t leave enough time for the characters to really interact with the worlds, but those things didn’t ruin the film for me. It’s a great watch!
The film’s message is that kindness in helping other people will always prevail over the power of destroying them. Be aware that there are mentions of murder, destruction and gambling.
I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters on April 1, 2026.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17
There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie. From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.
In this sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, our heroes Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are joined by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) and Toad (Keagan-Michel Key) enjoying and settling into their life in the Mushroom Kingdom. Sadly, their good times don’t last. The appearance of Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie) who’s intent on reclaiming his father Bowser (Jack Black) and ruling the universe with him side by side, throws the galaxy into chaos. They plan to achieve this evil feat by capturing Rosalina (Brie Larson), the protector of the cosmos herself. Now, the brothers are thrust into the action, this time with a brand-new friend Yoshi (Donald Glover) tagging along for the adventure.
As any Nintendo fan knows, the Super Mario franchise is chock-full of characters that seem larger than life. In this film, a large number of stars show up! Yoshi is my absolute favorite character, and Donald Glover excels in bringing Yoshi’s emotions and dialogue to the fore. Wart (Luis Guzmán), from the Super Mario Bros. 2 video game, makes an appearance, along with Fox McCloud (Glen Powell), from the Star Fox saga. Besides these, there are plenty of past video game references, hidden Easter eggs, and more which any long-time Nintendo fan will appreciate. The detail put into the film’s animation is extremely high which allows for deeper connection with the film, without being distracted by subpar graphics. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie differs from its predecessor in how the directors expanded on the world they first created. In the first film, The Super Mario Bros Movie, the plot focuses on the journey that first brought Mario and Luigi to the Mushroom Kingdom. Now that the brothers have gotten to know their new home, the stage is set for a huge expansion. With new faces and new places, plus a numerous score of new Power-Ups, this spectacular adventure is one that truly honors and celebrates the expansive, vast universe of Super Mario.
This film’s message is to not give up, no matter how daunting the situation might be. These Brooklyn born plumbers had their hands full when battling Bowser the first time, so a second bout, this time with Bowser’s own son by his side, seems impossible to prevail against. Yet, through every foe they encounter, every planet they land on, and every rescue they make, this team finds a way to beat the odds and save the galaxy.
I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film launches in theaters on April 1, 2026, so go take a look!
A young boy helps an endangered tiger escape from an evil hunter and takes him back to his home where an unlikely friendship is developed. When the boy learns of the hunter’s wicked plan to capture the powerful “Heart of the Forest” and bring about total destruction, he teams with all the wilderness animals to thwart their scheme before it’s too late and their home is lost forever.
Extinction: Animals Unite! is a fast-paced film filled with vivid animation, endearing characters, a completely original soundtrack and a story that, despite being tangled at times, is wholesome and inspiring.
Certain events in Extinction: Animals Unite! seemed to contradict established facts; for example, Tigy cannot seem to decide whether he wants to stay with Mohsen in the city or return to his home in the jungle. He enjoys himself at times and demands to leave at others, even making the long journey back to Mohsen’s house after Mohsen catapults him far away from it–only to beg to be escorted back to the jungle, where he knows that the very hunters he was running from still reside. Towards the end of the film, it is unclear which forest animals support Mohsen’s efforts and which believe he is “a traitor.” Thankfully, the film’s pace slows in its second half, making it less confusing than the hectic first. The animation deserves mention as well; it showcases beautiful artwork of forests, bridges and night skies. And it’s impossible not to fall in love with the characters. Mohsen believes in his abilities wholeheartedly, sometimes comically overestimating them, and is so determined to help others that I had to root for him. Even the cantankerous Tigy is amusing in his weariness.
This film reminds us that sometimes, you need to follow your instincts and take the risk. Mohsen doesn’t stop to contemplate the infinite what-ifs of his decisions; he dives in and faces his challenges head-on. If you are passionate about something, don’t let fear be the loudest voice in the room–even if you don’t have a whole jungle cheering you on, believe in yourself, get out there and make it happen!
To my surprise, Extinction: Animals Unite! has great comedic presence and is a terrific animated film. In just the first scenes, I realized that this film isn’t just for kids.
In the beginning of the movie, Mohsen’s family is having a picnic when a group of poachers appear, led by Extinguisher Alex (actor) – they are hunting Tigy and other forest animals. Mohsen is able to hide Tigy but bigger issues need to be addressed. We see how Mohsen loves to help, but after multiple attempts of trying to help others fail, Mohsen’s help slowly turns to hurt. After involuntarily demolishing his dad’s construction project, Mohsen gets his first taste of resent from another person, which there will plenty more of. I have to say, the background music is the unsung hero of this film; not only does music set the tone perfectly, but the music is beautiful all by itself.
When Mohsen gives himself a secret identity as Nimble Kid, this is heartwarming, a little humorous, and highlights Mohsen’s kid-like personality. I love the characters Mr. Orders (actor) and Ranger Graham (actor). These two unintentionally and intentionally support and help Mohsen on his journey to save the forest. Speaking of the forest, The Heart of the Forest (actor) is my favorite character. Her gracefulness and clarity are unmatched. I also like the ending when Extinguisher Alex turns over a new a leaf.
Extinction: Animals Unite! uses comedy, action, and strong relationship dynamics to create a heartfelt animated film. This movie is a perfect fit for kids and families who enjoy action films along with a good laugh.
Extinction: Animals Unite! has top-notch comedy moments that keep me engaged and entertained. While the story itself is not inherently funny, subtle elements of the dialogue or animation provide laughs in the midst of chaos. Additionally, the relationship dynamics are extremely strong, especially for an animated film. There are a few specific relationships that show ongoing development. The young boy and the tiger’s friendship, central to the storyline, is a sweet and heartfelt journey. The relationship between the young boy and his father, which seems strained at first, is both relatable to many viewers and effective in communicating the film’s assertion, despite not being a major storyline. Although the character depth and relationship dynamics are strong, the plot as a whole is not exceptionally engaging. Some aspects of the story seem predictable. However, with the cute characters and friendships as well as the consistent action and comedy, viewers are bound to have a positive experience.
The film’s message is that working together to help others and forming friendships always benefits us in the end. The young boy begins the film struggling to save every animal all by himself, which proves to be an impossible task. However, once he teams up with the tiger, they not only strengthen their friendship with each other, but they form bonds with other animals in the forest. Once they are cooperating they can effectively protect each other and save countless species from extinction. Be aware that there is some violence, including animated gun shots, explosions, and weapon use.
In 1955, 60-year-old Marcel Pagnol is a well-known and acclaimed playwright and filmmaker. When the editor-in-chief of ELLE magazine commissions a weekly column about Pagnol’s childhood, he sees this as a great opportunity to go back to his artistic roots: writing. Realizing his memory is failing him and deeply affected by the disappointing results of his last two plays, Pagnol starts doubting his ability to pursue his work. That is until Little Marcel – the young boy he used to be – appears to him as if by magic. Together, they will explore Marcel Pagnol’s incredible life and bring back to life his most cherished encounters and memories.
The animated movie A Magnificent Life has great emotional depth and a unique artistic style. At first, it seems like it is going to be a simple story about someone’s life, but as the movie progresses, it is clear that it is about much deeper issues like storytelling and creativity. The animation is very detailed and allows for the viewer to fully absorb its meaning.
One of the things that makes this film so captivating is the voice acting. Someone who caught my attention is Laurent Lafitte, who voices the adult version of the main character, Marcel Pagnol. Lafitte truly embodies his character, bringing a sense of reflection and wisdom to Pagnol, especially when he reminisces about his life and youth. His delivery is subtle yet powerful, which allows for the audience to connect with Marcel’s inner thoughts. Another person who caught my attention is Géraldine Pailhas, who plays the role of Marcel’s mother, Augustine Pagnol. She adds emotional depth through her performance and a sense of understanding to the film, which helps the audience to truly connect with the family. Her character brings warmth and sincerity to the story. This makes the personal, small moments feel genuine and impactful.
The film’s message is about appreciating the small moments in life and how important it is to remember them. The film suggests that one’s past experiences, even the quiet ones, can shape who people become and inspire something impactful. It also highlights how storytelling can preserve those moments.
I am a big fan of A Magnificent Life, which chronicles the story of Marcel Pagnol, a decorated French writer, whose story resonates with me because it evokes strong emotions of joy and sadness. What stood out most is how the film showcases moments from Pagnol’s early life, specifically when his mother, his biggest supporter, wrote a poem to him from her deathbed, encouraging him to keep writing poetry and nurture his creativity and imagination. Her belief and unconditional love helped shape the successful storyteller he would become.
I highly recommend this film! The animation is stunning, since it is hand-drawn and there are many intricate details, such as the small ruffles in the rugs and the tiny patterns in the wallpaper of Pagnol’s Parisian apartment in the 1950s. Additionally, the clips from the real movies Pagnol made alongside the animated scenes of his life are seamlessly integrated. The story moves smoothly between Marcel’s present life and the memories from his past without feeling rushed or confusing. The voice acting brings the characters to life, especially the two Marcels – the older Marcel is extremely thoughtful, and the younger Marcel is curious and energetic. Watching Marcel grow from a curious child in Marseille into a determined storyteller in Paris is inspiring, especially when he chooses to follow his dreams instead of the safer career his father wanted for him.
Some moments are funny while others are very touching, which makes the story feel emotional without ever becoming too heavy.
The Pout-Pout Fish is the hilarious and heartwarming story of an unlikely duo: Mr. Fish (Nick Offerman) a pouty introvert and Pip (Nina Oyama) an energetic sea dragon, who embark on a daunting quest to find a legendary fish to grant their wish to save their homes. Also stars Jordin Sparks and Amy Sedaris.
I love how catchy the music is. It really fits the emotion of the scene in each moment. The music definitely sets the tone for the movie. Next, I cannot express enough how funny the characters are. Pip, the adorable sea dragon, brings her humor and chaos to finally bring a smile to Mr. Fish’s face. She is the reason why his personality changes so much throughout the film. Every part with Pip made me laugh! I have to give praise to the screenwriter for creating Mr. Fish’s backstory. It really adds depth to the character and is not included in the original book, The Pout-Pout Fish. Lastly, I love the action and adventure-filled parts the best. These are my favorite because they go really fast and keep me interested. An example is when Mr. Fish and Pip are swimming away from the pink dolphins trying to chase them. The music, funny characters, and action-filled scenes all contribute to making this a great film.
The film’s message is that anything can be accomplished if you think positively and help others. Pip always strives to help others and keeps a positive mindset no matter what. Be aware that some scenes may be scary for younger children.
The Pout-Pout Fish is a cute, fun adventure movie that highlights the importance of helping those in need and the importance of friendship.
The film’s animation is smooth and in a fresh new style, with bright vibrant colors. I like the voice acting; I especially like that most of the characters have an Australian accent since that is where the story takes place. I also enjoyed how the film has two different story lines which are well developed, have good pacing, and are easy to follow. My favorite part of the film is when Mr. Fish and Pip visit the Dolphin Cove because of the pop culture references. I appreciate that the film includes factual details about sea creatures. For example, I learned that cuttlefish can hypnotize their prey. The film also has a lot of humor and some adult references to modern culture.
The film’s main message is the idea of helping others, even if it is inconvenient, because it can have a lasting impact. I also love the messages about how you never know who might end up becoming your friend and how important it is to work together towards a common goal. Parents should be aware that the film uses creative ocean terms as workarounds for profanity words.
The Pout-Pout Fish is a new and exciting animated film that I really enjoyed, due to its emotional yet adventurous plot, funny scenes, and stunning animated visuals.
There are a plethora of great things about this movie, but the visual design really stands out. The animation of the characters is really high-quality, and the background design is eye-catching. In addition, all of the characters’ expressions seem realistic and fun, despite them being animals. An example of this is the vivid and eye-catching color of the pink dolphins that Mr. Fish and Pip encounter towards the beginning of their journey. The plot also stands out; it involves the two fishes going on a long and cinematic journey through the ocean to find Shimmer, encountering various obstacles along the way. The journey also brings them closer together, and provides revelations about each other that they would not have known beforehand. My favorite part of the film is the character of Mr. Fish. Nick Offerman’s voice acting performance is deep. He aptly portrays Mr. Fish as a deep and grumpy guy, but brings out his softer side. Flashbacks reveal traumatic events from his childhood that make him the way that he is, and with Pip’s help, he is able to recover from that.
The film’s message places an emphasis on helping others. Regardless of whether or not it will be inconvenient to you, the film encourages you to support others when they need it and see the world through a more positive lens. Friendship is also a prominent theme, primarily shown through the relationship between Mr. Fish and Pip, as well as the journey they go on together.
Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years from Earth. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing the sun, and save Earth. An unexpected friendship may be the key.
