A cozy Saturday night at home with the kids and a drawer full of popcorn calls for a movie night.
As a busy mum of two young kids, I must admit that I don't often get the chance to sit down and watch movies at home. Usually, I'll put on something that I know will entertain the kids while I try to get stuff done. But as a big movie lover myself, I always enjoy a good kids' movie that we can all watch and enjoy together.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie had been repeatedly requested by my seven-year-old daughter, who had heard about the film. And to our luck, it is now available to buy or rent digitally at home.
So, we snuggled up, popped a bag of triple butter popcorn, and watched the film together... twice on the same night.
That's a rare occurrence in my household with two active kids, aged seven and three.
As a parent in my thirties, this movie was a thrill to watch with my kids, bringing back some very fond childhood memories.
Sitting with my kids, I had the opportunity to share those fond memories from my own childhood with them. I was creating new memories with my kids, and it filled my heart with joy.
Here's exactly why you'll probably have The Super Mario Bros. Movie on repeat too.
The humour.
From the very beginning of the film, the iconic Mario and Luigi characters and their unique relationship brought age-appropriate comedy that immediately drew us into the story. The movie was also filled with funny and humorous moments that both kids and adults could enjoy, truly bringing the characters to life on the big screen.
What made it even more exciting for me was knowing that these characters were voiced by some of the biggest names in Hollywood. The film featured Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, and Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong.
While the significance of these actors may have gone over the kids' heads, they were definitely a big deal to me. It added to the overall appeal and made the experience even more enjoyable.
Princess Peach is the hero.
Having grown up in the eighties and nineties, I must admit I wasn't expecting Princess Peach to take on such a heroic role in this movie. But let me tell you, she absolutely nailed it. The movie has brilliantly transformed this much loved character into one of the most memorable female-led heroes of our children's generation in an animated film.
Princess Peach proves to be a true force to be reckoned with as she saves the day multiple times throughout the film – and I couldn't have been happier about it. My daughter shared the same excitement as we watched Princess Peach show up in her elegant princess gown and fearlessly defeat the villains.
It was empowering to see a female princess character taking charge and being such a powerful role model for young viewers.
Mario and Luigi are the dream team.
My daughter quickly noticed the different personality traits of the Mario Bros as we watched the film. She enthusiastically pointed out how Mario displayed bravery and support for his younger brother Luigi. It provided us with a wonderful opportunity to discuss how she also exhibits similar behaviours towards her own little brother, who often finds himself in need of a courageous older sister's assistance.
But the most valuable lesson we learned from Mario and Luigi's sibling bond is that despite their differences – they make an incredible team. They always have each other's backs and work together to accomplish their goals. In fact, their differences only enhance their abilities, as they complement and support one another. It's an important lesson for our children and us grown-ups alike.
A visual delight.
The creators of The Super Mario Bros. Movie truly nailed the animation. They spared no effort in delivering a visually stunning movie, filled with vibrant colours, intricate scenes, and interesting adaptations from the original games. It was a cinematic journey that left a lasting impression.
As the characters embarked on their adventures in the film, I was absolutely captivated and... so were my kids.
The music is everything.
The kids loved the music throughout the film, yet they didn't realise that there were many reference to Mario sound effects. The inclusion of the catchy track 'Take On Me' during an action-packed scene, was a highlight for me. My kids also couldn't stop bopping along.
It's safe to say that my kids and I absolutely loved the movie... so much so, we might even watch it for a third time.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is now available to buy or rent from the comfort of your own home.
Image: Supplied.