The Super Mario Bros. Movie uses a power-up and is already the best debut for an animated film

The Mushroom Kingdom has been saved, and Nintendo has taken the coins out of the hands of the plumber of its choice. The Super Mario Bros. Movie has come out of the pipeline with such a bang that it has taken the box office by storm around the world. According to Deadline, the Illumination film produced by the Kyoto-based company is the most successful animated film in history in its debut, having grossed $377.5 million worldwide upon its arrival in theaters.

Mario jumped under the block and got a very tasty Power Up. The mushroom turned him into a colossus. It has grossed an estimated $200 million in the U.S. alone, with the remainder ($172.8 million) coming from all other territories. The movie’s budget was $100 million, so it has already recouped its investment.

This blockbuster is also a triumph for Illumination itself, surpassing its previous record set with Minions. It earned $115.7 million in its premiere. “Kids and their parents collectively were able to go out, have an outside the home event for the whole family at a relatively bargain price compared to a trip or a sporting event,” said Paul Dergarabedian, Comscore analyst. “A testament to how important outside of the home activities are for families.”

From plumbers to Mushroom Kingdom heroes

The movie tells the story of brothers Mario and Luigi, two plumbers trying to make a living in Brooklyn. Everything changes when they find a green pipe that transports them to the Mushroom Kingdom, where they meet characters like Peach, Toad and Donkey Kong. The evil Bowser plans to conquer everything in his path, so Mario must become the hero and thwart the plans of the King of Koopas.

If you’re going to watch the movie, don’t forget to stay until after the credits roll, because there are post-credits scenes.

Source | Deadline