The Grand Illusion

Hey! Did you hear there's a new Mario movie out? Well, this ain't it. But it might be the only one worth watching.

Before the 21st-century video game-to-film adaptation boom, there was 1993’s SUPER MARIO BROS—a critical punching bag and box office catastrophe at the time of its release. But now, after years in which the “video game movie” formula has been codified and homogenized, the movie can be seen for the daffily charming, eccentric, and technically innovative piece of work it is, accordingly adopted by a loyal cult following.

Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo play the intrepid Brooklyn plumbers, plunging into the underground world of Dinohattan to save Princess Daisy (Samantha Mathis) from the clutches of the ruthless King Koopa (Dennis Hopper, leaving no scenery unchewed) in a film so loathed and loved that it can never be forgotten... no matter how much Nintendo wants it to be.

Tickets are pay-what-you-will with a $5 minimum. All money from ticket sales will go to the Grand Illusion’s relocation fund. Kids 12 and under are free. This movie is rated PG. Check out the parents guide on IMDb for more information.

The movie will start at approximately 8:15 pm, but be sure to come early to hang out and get great drinks and good food from the brewery. The fine folks at Dirty Couch will have tamales available for purchase! Be sure to dress warm and bring a blanket if you can.

“Super Mario Bros. may be junk, but it’s superior junk… it’s a blast.” Hal Hinson, Washington Post