The Super Mario Galaxy

3D Movie Review

Written By: Jake Jarvis

3D

This is a must-see in 3D. A 2D presentation of Super Mario Galaxy Movie is literally missing a third of the experience. The animation, character design, and action are all elevated by the 3D in a way that feels intentional, not just added on. The pop-outs are nearly nonstop, and the depth is strong throughout, pulling you right into the galaxy.

Almost every scene in Super Mario Galaxy Movie feels like it could be a piece of art you’d hang on your wall. The colors, lighting, and scale all benefit from the added dimension, and even quieter moments still feel expansive and alive.

To nitpick, there are a few moments where a planet in the background looks a bit flat. But the ships, stars, and cosmic effects fill the space so well that it never really takes you out of it.

When creatures snarl, the spittle comes toward you. Weapons extend out into the theater. It’s a dazzling display that fully embraces 3D and makes Super Mario Galaxy Movie a standout experience.

Final 3D Score:

10/10, Editors Choice Award

Movie

Super Mario Galaxy Movie aims bigger, louder, and more cosmic than the first film—and for the most part, it delivers.

After their victory in the first movie, Mario and Luigi are pulled into a new adventure that takes them beyond the Mushroom Kingdom and into outer space. Alongside Peach, Toad, and new ally Yoshi, they team up with Rosalina to stop Bowser Jr., who is trying to save his father and take control of the galaxy.

Most of the voice cast returns and remains delightful, along with new additions for Princess Rosalina, Bowser Jr., and Yoshi.

The story is predictable and nothing adults haven’t seen a hundred times before, but this is clearly geared toward kids. Parents should be aware—it pushes its PG rating at times and may be a bit intense or scary for younger children. Adults might also find the pacing uneven in spots.

That said, the visuals and constant parade of Easter eggs help carry things if the story feels too familiar. There’s also a fun surprise cameo from a certain space-faring character that feels a bit out of left field, but the swagger (very Han Solo) is a great addition and fits surprisingly well.

This is the most ambitious animated franchise entry since the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse films, blending multiple art styles into one cohesive and gorgeous presentation. From bright, colorful galaxy backdrops to more stylized, almost painterly moments, the film isn’t afraid to shift its look scene to scene. Different worlds feel distinct, with lighting and textures that give each area its own identity while still fitting into the larger Mario universe.

See Super Mario Galaxy Movie in 3D on the best screen you can find—this is one you should see in theaters for the full spectacle. There are two post-credit scenes—one right after the movie before the credits, and another at the very end.

Overall, Super Mario Galaxy Movie is a visually stunning sequel that plays it safe with the story but delivers where it matters most. If you enjoyed the first one, this is an easy recommendation.

Final Movie Score: 7/10

Learn more about how we rate 3D content via the link below:

https://www.3dor2d.com/3d-or-2d-ratingssystem/

Read our review (Different Reviewer) of the previous Super Mario Bros movie via the link below:

https://www.3dor2d.com/reviews/the-super-mario-bros-movie-3d-movie-review

Official Websites:

https://www.illumination.com/movie/1238/

https://www.nintendo.com/us/movies/super-mario-galaxy/