When we first learned that The Super Mario Bros. Movie would be an animated feature from the studio responsible for the Minions franchise, there was an awful lot of scepticism online. Since then, we've seen that - visually, at least - they're definitely not veering too far from the games, but the A-List voice cast continues to be an issue for some.
Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt's take on Mario has been predictably divisive, with many arguing he basically just sounds like...Chris Pratt.
While we'd argue that it's still a much better casting decision than Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong, for example, it feels like the actor is being judged too soon. After all, he's definitely added a little flair to the hero to bring his take in line with what we're used to hearing in the games.
Charlie Day, meanwhile, is going to lend his voice to Luigi, and both characters are given the spotlight on two new posters shared by The Super Mario Bros. Movie's Twitter account (via Toonado.com).
The first leans heavily into the franchise's video game roots, showcasing an obstacle course, or sorts, that should instantly bring back memories of those early games (or recent LEGO sets). Luigi, meanwhile, looks to be in serious peril as the movie's likely damsel dude in distress.
From Nintendo and Illumination comes a new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros.
Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (Teen Titans Go!, Teen Titans Go! To the Movies) from a screenplay by Matthew Fogel (Minions: The Rise of Gru), the film also stars Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek, and Sebastian Maniscalco as Spike.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is set to be released in theaters on April 7, 2023.