The Ringer-Verse Is ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ More Than a Moneymaker? | Button Mash
Apr 1, 2026
Charles Pulliam-Moore, film and TV writer at The Verge, breaks down The Super Mario Galaxy movie and Nintendo’s cautious film strategy. They compare the sequel to the first film, debate adapting minimal-story games for cinema, and catalog cameos, pacing, and visual craft. Conversation also touches on Nintendo’s long-game approach, crossover prospects, and how these films tie into hardware and game plans.
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Sequel Sticks To Proven Mario Formula
- The Galaxy movie largely repeats the formula of the first Mario film instead of reinventing its structure.
- Charles Pulliam-Moore and Ben Lindbergh note same directors/writers and many cameo set pieces that keep the film moving quickly.
Gorgeous Spectacle Paired With Thin Narrative
- The movie is visually and sonically stunning but narratively thin, creating disparity between spectacle and story.
- Ben and Charles praise set pieces and sound design while lamenting lack of deep through-lines or emotional stakes.
Avoid Low Expectations For Kids Media
- The hosts perceive a 'soft bigotry of low expectations' that dismisses kids' media as unworthy of high standards.
- Ben argues children's entertainment can and should reward adults too, not just act as passive babysitting content.