The iconic video game franchise Super Mario Bros is getting its own live-action movie, set to hit theaters later this year. The film, produced by Illumination Entertainment and distributed by Universal Pictures, is directed by Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of the Super Mario Bros game series.

Fans of the classic game series can look forward to seeing their favorite characters brought to life on the big screen, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and the villainous Bowser. The movie will feature a star-studded cast, with Chris Pratt voicing Mario, Charlie Day as Luigi, and Jack Black as Bowser.

The Super Mario Bros movie is expected to be a hit with kids and families, with its focus on adventure, humor, and heart. The film promises to be a fresh and family-friendly take on the classic game, designed to appeal to a new generation of fans while also pleasing older fans who have grown up with the game.

One of the biggest challenges in adapting a video game into a movie is translating the game’s unique world and characters into a new medium. The Super Mario Bros movie takes a different approach than previous attempts, with a focus on capturing the spirit of the game rather than a strict adherence to the game’s story.

In an interview with Variety, Miyamoto explained the approach taken in creating the movie: “I like to think of this film as if it were a theme park ride, a thrilling adventure through the world of Mario. It’s not so much about telling a story as it is about creating a fun and exciting experience that captures the essence of what makes the games so beloved.”

The Super Mario Bros franchise has been a mainstay in gaming culture since the release of the first game in 1985. The games have sold over 380 million copies worldwide, and the characters have become pop culture icons. The upcoming movie has the potential to introduce a new generation to the world of Super Mario Bros and further cement its place in popular culture.

The Super Mario Bros movie also serves as an example of the increasing trend of video game adaptations in Hollywood. With the popularity of gaming on the rise, studios are looking to tap into the existing fan base of popular game franchises to create successful films.

The success of the upcoming Super Mario Bros movie could pave the way for more video game adaptations in the future. However, it remains to be seen whether the movie will be able to capture the essence of the beloved game series and appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers.

In addition to the movie, the Super Mario Bros franchise is also celebrating its 35th anniversary this year with various events and merchandise releases. This includes the release of a remastered version of the classic game Super Mario Bros. 3 for the Nintendo Switch, and a collaboration with the fashion brand Levi’s for a Super Mario Bros-themed clothing line.

Overall, the Super Mario Bros movie has generated significant buzz and anticipation among fans of the game series. With its family-friendly focus and star-studded cast, the movie has the potential to be a hit with kids and families alike. Only time will tell if the film will be able to capture the magic of the beloved game series and translate it to the big screen.