Recently, it has not been uncommon for video game authors, trying to give their creation a second wind, to decide to change their computer to a movie camera. So, the heroes we are already familiar with end up on the big screens of cinemas, where we are ready to enjoy new images of our favorite characters with popcorn. Everyone is happy and satisfied!

But for some reason the reality turns out to be much more cruel. And when we hear about the next film adaptation of the gaming universe, instead of joy, skepticism and disapproval appear on our faces. And once the project reaches cinemas, popcorn and pleasure are replaced by angry comments and low ratings from critics.

Is it right to consider movies based on video games a lost cause?? The problem lies in the overly high expectations of old people or the dishonesty of managers? In this material, using the example of a unique project, I would like to try to answer these questions.

Let’s start with a short historical excursion. One of the first film adaptations to see the light was “Super Mario Brothers” (1993). Two plumber brothers Mario and Luigi accidentally discover a passage to a parallel world. This world is inhabited by lizard people, ruled by the brutal dictator Koopa. He wants to penetrate the Earth and take it over. Koopa’s secret weapon is a gun, a shot from which reverses the process of evolution (that is, a person turns into a monkey, etc.).n.). With the help of this weapon, Kupa turned the rightful king of the country into a fungus, and in revenge he covered the entire kingdom with himself. The key to salvation is kept by the beloved Princess Daisy. In the end, the brothers need to find the princess and save the world.
Agree, sounds like a good plot. And the film itself has received cult status. But that’s why then, the director said that it was the worst work of his career, and the film itself failed at the box office and was crushed by critics?

“We will not film a caramel fairy madcasino-online.co.uk tale for preschoolers, but a story with character. Something that will captivate children and adults."

These were the words of independent director Roland Joffe addressed to the President of Nintendo. He really wanted to take on the filming of this picture. As a result, the deal was concluded and the work began in full swing.

Problems plagued the project from the very beginning of its creation. Couldn’t find a decent cast. Those stars who initially planned to act (Tom Hanks, Arnold Schwarzenegger) subsequently refused. The script was also a sad picture. In an attempt to create a deep and compelling story, screenwriter Barry Morrow completely forgot which universe he was working on. As a result, it turned out that Mario is an experienced mentor, and Luigi is a stupid little brother, who also suffers from a mental disorder. Of course, the concept was rejected and the project passed into other hands.

This is probably where the turning point in the history of the film takes place. Directors, represented by a British couple, and new screenwriters disagree. The first ones say:
“We need more grit, nudity and cyberpunk hopelessness!»
The latter believe that the story should become family and fairy-tale.

Thus, the kingdom changes to New York, and the turtle king Koopa becomes a crazy alligator. Now Mario and Luigi are no longer good old plumbers, but real action heroes.

The city itself also added a unique flavor. Thanks to the decoration, it was possible to create an entire metropolis filled with bandits and prostitutes. As we see, a family film at its best.

The result of this epic was the need to conclude new contracts, which entailed conditions: to reduce the level of vulgarity. The script was hastily rewritten, and the directors had to leave the project.

The film was released on May 28, 1993. And instead of a resounding success, Nintendo got a crushing failure. The film and the game had practically nothing in common, so it was not possible for the viewer to cling to familiar images. I tried to tell in general terms the story of a failure that marked the beginning of a new era in cinema and became a cult favorite for many fans. The conclusions, of course, are yours to make.

Best comments

I have a lot of jokes, but I won’t gloat. Essentially and possible explanations about the disadvantages:
1.Was hoping to see more examples of game movies on the blog. That is, there is little information.
2.Even I, who was not particularly interested in the film, know many aspects.
3. "Movies based on video games". Fantasy or reality?» a strange name, considering the fact that there are movies based on video games, that is, they already exist. Moreover, your example. If this is “click bait”, Dmitry Kungurov and all sorts of YouTubers can afford this without disappointing the audience. It’s a bit difficult for beginners here, but a dashing robber will break through. If, of course, it does no worse than others, or even better. I recommend removing the pictures from under the “spoilers” (let the gif remain there) and good luck.