Miyamoto responds to Super Mario Galaxy Movie criticism despite $753m box office

Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto has expressed surprise at the harsh critical reception of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which earned $753 million globally despite scoring just 43% with critics on Rotten Tomatoes. As reported by IGN, quoting Nintendo Dream Web, Miyamoto called the critical response 'even harsher than last time' and 'strange' given the film's box office success.

What did Miyamoto say about the criticism?

According to Nintendo Dream Web, Miyamoto found the critical reception particularly puzzling compared to the first film. "Actually, I thought the critics' reviews of the first film were understandable," he said. "But I thought this time it would be different... and it was even harsher than last time, which I found strange."

The Nintendo creator also defended those trying to invigorate the film industry from other mediums. "People from other mediums have come in and are working hard to liven up the film industry, so it's really strange that the people who are trying to liven up the film industry are [treated] so passively," Miyamoto added.

How does the sequel compare to the original?

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie mirrors its predecessor's critical-audience divide, though with lower scores across both metrics. The Galaxy Movie's $372.5 million opening helped propel it to $753 million globally, making it 2026's biggest film so far — and that's before its Japan release.

However, it's unlikely to match the original's $1.3 billion total. The sequel sits at 89% audience approval and 43% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes, showing the same pattern of audience-critic disconnect that defined the first film's reception.

What's next for Nintendo's movie plans?

Nintendo has ambitious cinematic plans beyond the Galaxy sequel. Jack Black recently hinted at a third Mario movie arriving in 2029, likely following a planned Donkey Kong spinoff film.

Next year is reserved for Nintendo's live-action The Legend of Zelda film, marking the company's expansion beyond animated fare. Miyamoto also revealed he's approved Princess Peach's newly-revealed backstory becoming canon for future video games and films, suggesting deeper integration between Nintendo's gaming and cinematic universes.

When can UAE audiences watch?

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is currently playing in UAE cinemas following its global release earlier this month. The film is expected to receive Arabic subtitles for local audiences, though specific UAE box office figures haven't been disclosed yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Shigeru Miyamoto say about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie criticism?

Miyamoto expressed surprise at the harsh critical reception, saying it was 'even harsher than last time' and calling the response 'strange' given the film's commercial success and positive audience reception.

How much has The Super Mario Galaxy Movie earned globally?

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has earned $753 million globally, making it the biggest film of 2026 so far, even before its release in Japan.

What are the Rotten Tomatoes scores for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie?

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has an 89% audience rating and a 43% approval score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, showing a similar audience-critic divide as the first film.

Will there be more Super Mario movies?

Yes, Nintendo has plans for several movies. Jack Black suggested a third Mario movie for 2029, with a Donkey Kong spinoff likely before that. A live-action Legend of Zelda film is planned for next year.

Written by

Share

Copied