Nintendo and Illumination have presented a new preview of Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie, in which Yoshi, the well-known green dinosaur, makes his debut in animated cinema alongside Mario and Luigi.This sequel, scheduled for release in April, comes after the success of Super Mario Bros.: The Movie, which in 2023 raised more than $1.45 billion and consolidated the franchise as a global phenomenon in animation.
Yoshi’s appearance in the saga dates back to the 1990 video game Super Mario World, where he transformed the gameplay by introducing new mechanics, such as the use of his tongue to reach objects or his function as a mount and his ability to double jump.In the trailer for the sequel, Yoshi maintains his charisma and distinctive abilities;After a mission for Mario and Luigi in a desert temple, the character emerges from a pile of rubble, revealing himself as the heroes’ next fundamental ally.
The trailer also suggests new dynamics, as Yoshi not only provides physical support, but brings movement and humor to the main duo.His first appearance as a protagonist in the games was in Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, 1995, where his universe was expanded and skills such as egg throwing and flutter jumping were shown, which are also anticipated in the film.
After its devastating performance at the box office last year, Super Mario Bros.: The Movie, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, ranked as the fifth most successful animated film and number 19 in global cinema history.This success strengthened the relationship between Nintendo and Illumination, a studio known for franchises such as Minions, ensuring the continuation of the saga through a sequel that will include iconic references and expand the voice cast.
The return of the original team of directors for Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie was confirmed, and the preview reveals the participation of Brie Larson in the role of Rosalina and Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr., thus increasing the expectation regarding the expansion of the Mario universe.Chris Pratt and Charlie Day return in the roles of the well-known plumber brothers, while Jack Black, Anya Taylor-Joy, Seth Rogen and Keegan-Michael Key make up the recurring cast that managed to captivate the public in the first installment.
Although the exact plot of the film has not yet been revealed, the trailer shows the brothers in a new adventure set in a desert village, where, with the company of Yoshi, they solve puzzles and overcome traps in an ancient temple.This sequence suggests that the production will take advantage of the aesthetics of Super Mario Galaxy, the successful 2007 Nintendo Wii game that introduced gravity mechanics and spherical planets, thus opening up new visual possibilities for the franchise.
Yoshi’s presentation has been well received, especially by those who grew up with video games and recognize the character’s qualities: friendliness, versatility and a nostalgic component.The inclusion of Yoshi in the story and the emphasis on his abilities indicate that he will have an important role in both the action and the interaction with the other characters.
The film, like its predecessor, seeks to connect viewers of different ages through references, humor and action scenes inspired by the gameplay of classic and current titles.Illumination and Nintendo thus demonstrate their ability to turn nostalgia into a global event, generating expectations among both long-standing fans and new generations.
