Chris Pratt explains Mario’s 'Mamma Mia' change in Super Mario Galaxy movie

Chris Pratt reveals why Mario’s iconic 'Mamma Mia' line was adapted for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Chris Pratt has explained why Mario’s iconic catchphrase “Mamma Mia” was adapted in the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

The animated sequel reunites Pratt and Charlie Day as Mario and Luigi following the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie in 2023, which grossed over $1.36 billion worldwide. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic aim to replicate the franchise’s success while making subtle changes to Mario’s dialogue for the new film.

In an interview with ScreenRant, Pratt discussed the challenge of adapting Mario’s classic line. “The original version of the character says it in Italian, like [high pitched] ‘Mamma Mia,’” Pratt explained. “But I thought, why does it make sense for a guy from Brooklyn who doesn’t have that accent to use that so much?” Pratt added that he experimented with variations, ultimately slowing it down to better fit his voice and the character’s Brooklyn roots.

Benny Safdie, who voices Bowser Jr. in the sequel, noted that Pratt varies the line depending on the scene. Pratt said, “It’s like, ‘Maaammaaa Miaaaa,’” giving the line a more natural flow for the character’s adaptation in the new movie.

Several original cast members are returning, including Jack Black as Bowser, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, and Keegan-Michael Key as Toad. New additions include Brie Larson as Rosalina, Donald Glover as Yoshi, Issa Rae as Honey Queen, Glenn Powell as Fox McCloud, Luis Guzman as Wart, and Safdie as Bowser Jr. The film also promises surprise appearances from other iconic Nintendo characters.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie continues to adapt the beloved Nintendo franchise while modernizing its characters for a global audience, with Pratt’s voice work providing a fresh take on Mario’s most recognized lines.