‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Review: It’s a Nintendo free-for-all in the sequel that levels up with plenty of Easter eggs

April 6, 2026 - 10:13

The plumber brothers are back, and this time they're leaving the Mushroom Kingdom far behind. The highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster animated hit blasts off into a star-studded adventure, drawing direct inspiration from the beloved "Super Mario Galaxy" games. The film trades the familiar green pipes and plains for a cosmos filled with whimsical planets, gravitational puzzles, and a vibrant new cast of alien creatures.

While the core heart and humor remain, the sequel confidently broadens its scope. It feels less like a straightforward adaptation and more like a celebratory tour through Nintendo's vast creative library. Keen-eyed fans will be delighted by a non-stop barrage of subtle nods and Easter eggs referencing decades of iconic franchises, seamlessly woven into the dazzling interstellar backdrop. The animation reaches new heights, with inventive sequences that play with physics and perspective, mirroring the games' innovative spirit.

The voice cast returns with energetic performances, driving a story that balances spectacular, gravity-defying action with the series' signature charm. This chapter successfully builds upon the foundation of the first film, offering a visually stunning and densely packed love letter to Nintendo's legacy that aims to satisfy both devoted fans and a new generation of moviegoers. The result is a fun, frenetic, and family-friendly space odyssey that proves this cinematic universe has plenty of room to grow.