The Cast of The Super Mario Bros. Movie – Meet the Star-Studded Voices!
The cast of The Super Mario Bros. Movie is packed with Hollywood stars who bring the beloved video game characters to life with energy, humor, and charm. Based on the legendary Nintendo franchise, this animated adventure features an all-star voice cast that perfectly embodies the personalities of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and other iconic characters. But do these actors truly fit their roles? Let’s dive deep into their performances and see how they contribute to this exciting adaptation.
Biography Table – Cast of The Super Mario Bros. Movie
| Actor | Character | Notable Works | Role Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Pratt | Mario | Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World | The brave plumber hero of the Mushroom Kingdom |
| Anya Taylor-Joy | Princess Peach | The Queen’s Gambit, The Northman | The strong and independent ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom |
| Charlie Day | Luigi | It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia | Mario’s timid but lovable younger brother |
| Jack Black | Bowser | School of Rock, Jumanji | The menacing yet comedic King of the Koopas |
| Keegan-Michael Key | Toad | Key & Peele, The Lion King | Mario’s energetic and humorous Mushroom Kingdom ally |
| Seth Rogen | Donkey Kong | Superbad, Pineapple Express | The strong but playful ape warrior |
| Fred Armisen | Cranky Kong | Saturday Night Live, Portlandia | The grumpy elder Kong with wisdom |
| Sebastian Maniscalco | Spike | Stand-up comedy, The Irishman | Mario’s former work rival and comic relief character |
| Kevin Michael Richardson | Kamek | The Simpsons, Family Guy | Bowser’s sinister and intelligent magician |
| Charles Martinet | Mario’s Father & Giuseppe | Longtime Mario voice actor | A special cameo from the legendary Mario voice |
Chris Pratt as Mario – A Controversial Choice?
One of the most talked-about casting choices in the film is Chris Pratt, also known as Mario. Known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World, Pratt’s selection sparked debate among fans. Many expected a voice closer to Charles Martinet’s traditional high-pitched Mario, but Pratt offers a fresh take. Instead of mimicking the game’s exaggerated accent, he delivers a more natural performance while capturing Mario’s bravery and determination.
Though initially met with skepticism, his voice work in the film shows that he brings enthusiasm and heart to the character. His comedic timing and heroic delivery help establish Mario as a relatable, everyday hero who finds himself on an epic adventure.
Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach – A Strong and Independent Leader
Anya Taylor-Joy, best known for her stunning performances in The Queen’s Gambit and The Northman, plays Princess Peach. Unlike the classic damsel-in-distress version of Peach, this film portrays her as a capable and fearless leader. Taylor-Joy’s voice adds elegance and confidence to the character, making her an inspiring figure rather than just a princess waiting to be rescued.
Her portrayal brings a modern twist to Peach, showing her as a skilled fighter and a wise ruler who plays a central role in the Mushroom Kingdom’s fate. She perfectly balances grace and strength, making her version of Peach one of the most compelling in Mario’s history.
Charlie Day as Luigi – The Perfect Choice for the Nervous Brother
Charlie Day, known for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, voices Luigi, Mario’s timid yet lovable younger brother. His naturally anxious and high-energy voice makes him a fantastic fit for the role. Luigi has always been the more nervous of the Mario brothers, and Day amplifies that personality trait while still making him endearing and relatable.
Throughout the film, Luigi’s journey from a scared sidekick to a brave hero is one of the most engaging story arcs. Charlie Day’s comedic instincts and expressive voice make his performance one of the standout highlights of the movie.
Jack Black as Bowser – The Scene-Stealing Villain
Jack Black’s portrayal of Bowser is nothing short of legendary. The School of Rock and Jumanji star brings his signature rock-star energy to the King of the Koopas, making him both menacing and hilarious. Black’s deep, growling voice and theatrical delivery give Bowser a unique blend of intimidation and comedy.
His performance includes some unexpected musical moments, which make Bowser even more entertaining. Jack Black wholly owns the role, once again proving he is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and charismatic performers.
Keegan-Michael Key as Toad – The Comic Relief with Charm
Keegan-Michael Key, known for Key & Peele and The Lion King, voices Toad, the adorable yet energetic Mushroom Kingdom resident. His comedic background shines through in his performance, bringing life and humor to the character.
Toad is often portrayed as a small but courageous companion, and Key ensures that he is funny and full of personality. His take on Toad adds to the film’s lighthearted moments, making him an essential ally to Mario and Peach.
Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong – A Fun and Fitting Choice
Seth Rogen lends his voice to Donkey Kong, the mighty yet playful ape. Rogen’s signature deep, gravelly laugh makes DK feel authentic to his personality – strong but goofy. The movie gives Donkey Kong a fun rivalry with Mario, and Rogen’s delivery enhances their dynamic.
While some fans expected a different voice style for Donkey Kong, Rogen’s take is entertaining and fits well with the film’s humor. His portrayal captures the character’s brute strength and lighthearted arrogance, making Donkey Kong a memorable part of the story.
Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong – The Wise but Grumpy Elder
Fred Armisen, famous for Saturday Night Live and Portlandia, voices Cranky Kong, the older, wiser member of the Kong family. Armisen’s comedic skills perfectly blend sarcasm and wisdom to the character.
Cranky Kong serves as both a mentor and a source of comic relief, and Armisen’s performance makes the character engaging. His voice effectively brings out the elder Kong’s grumpy yet knowledgeable nature.
Sebastian Maniscalco as Spike – A Lesser-Known Character Done Right
Sebastian Maniscalco, a stand-up comedian and actor, plays Foreman Spike, a character from Wrecking Crew, one of Nintendo’s earliest games. Though not as iconic as Mario or Bowser, Spike plays a humorous antagonistic role, and Maniscalco’s natural comedic delivery makes him a great addition to the cast.
His character adds depth to Mario’s backstory, giving him a rival from his working-class past. Maniscalco’s portrayal is funny and fitting, adding a layer of nostalgia for hardcore Nintendo fans.
Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek – The Sinister Magikoopa
Kevin Michael Richardson, a seasoned voice actor known for The Simpsons and Family Guy, voices Kamek, Bowser’s loyal magician. Richardson’s deep, eerie voice adds a sinister yet amusing touch to the character, making Kamek a standout villainous sidekick.
Kamek’s role in the movie is crucial, as he serves as Bowser’s strategist and right-hand man. Richardson’s performance ensures that Kamek is both menacing and entertaining, making him a memorable part of Bowser’s team.
Charles Martinet – The Legendary Mario Voice Returns
Longtime Mario voice actor Charles Martinet makes a special appearance as Mario’s father and the character Giuseppe. While not playing Mario himself, Martinet’s involvement is a heartfelt tribute to his decades of work as the iconic plumber. His cameo adds an extra nostalgia for fans of the classic games.
Last Reviews – Does the Cast Deliver?
The cast of The Super Mario Bros. Movie brings energy, humor, and personality to this beloved franchise. While some casting choices were initially controversial, the final performances prove that each actor was carefully selected.
Jack Black steals the show as Bowser, while Anya Taylor-Joy gives Princess Peach the depth and strength she deserves. Chris Pratt’s Mario may not have the classic accent, but his performance captures the essence of the character.
Overall, the film’s voice cast successfully brings the Mushroom Kingdom to life, making this adaptation an exciting and enjoyable experience for fans of all ages. Whether you are a longtime Mario fan or a newcomer, the film’s cast ensures the adventure is worth watching.