Just like the “Because You Watched…” lane that pops up on your favorite streaming service, Now Playing Podcast wants to help you find the perfect companion flicks. Each week, contributor Chris Bravo brings you fresh recommends that tie in with one of our reviews.
A grand adventure to stop a princess’ wedding. Funny, memorable sidekicks. Endless lines and gags that have become a staple in our shared cultural millieu. And opening with a classic 8-bit video game. That’s right, I’m talking about Rob Reiner’s 1987 classic, The Princess Bride.
On the surface, The Super Mario Bros. Movie may not have much in common with the Gen-X fantasy classic. One’s a comedy fantasy based on a beloved novel that both parodies and celebrates the tropes of its genres. The other is a sugar rush of a family film that is chock full of references to the video game series. The pacing and energy of the movies are vastly different. But I will say this–for those who really enjoyed the character moments, the good-natured jokes, and the action sequences of The Super Mario Bros. Movie will also find a lot to enjoy in The Princess Bride (if you haven’t seen it already).
There is a heartwarming romance at the center of it all. The chemistry between Westley and Buttercup will touch even the most hardened hearts, just like it melted little Fred Savage’s jaded heart. Maybe Princess Peach and Mario’s relationship didn’t reach those heights, but if you like rooting for the hero to win the girl, The Princess Bride might be the apex of that trope.
Then there are the supporting characters. Donkey Kong, Toad, Bowser, and Luigi were my favorite parts of The Super Mario Bros. Movie. And if you liked their inside jokes, their interplay with one another, their references to previous games, then you’ll really enjoy Inigo Montoya, Fezzik, Vizzini, and Count Rugen. Their lines have become entrenched as some of the most quoted lines from all of cinema. Their relationships with each other are full of charm and joviality. It’s hard to dislike any of them.
So watch The Princess Bride. Watch it again if you already have. And then you’ll agree with me–Mario does king of look like Westley, doesn’t he?
