THE characters from Nintendo video game franchise Super Mario have been brought to life in the computer-animated feature, The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Screening in cinemas nationwide, the movie has already grossed over US$1 billion worldwide.
Actress Anya Taylor-Joy, who provides the voice of Princess Peach, said she had a blast portraying an updated version of the character.
Below, the 27-year-old award-winning artiste shared more about her role in the entertaining adventure romp for the family.
What did you want to bring to this beloved character?
Princess Peach is incredibly iconic, and I wanted to bring her into this century by making her a little bit more capable. I was so overwhelmed and excited that the team at Nintendo and the directors of the movie were so on board with that.
We started with the voice, as I wanted to pitch it a bit differently and we took it from there and even improvised lines. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to play a character that's loved by so many people, but I was also excited to have the chance to flesh her out and let her be the hero of her own story.
What do you like the most about Princess Peach?
That she redefines what it means to be a princess because she's not weak or helpless, and she's not a damsel in distress and she is not looking for anyone to save her.
Princess Peach is an incredibly driven leader who is fearless, determined, capable and has so much heart. And she is very concerned about the welfare of the Mushroom Kingdom and wants everyone to be taken care of and live peacefully. After I watched the film, I was inspired by her and thought, "I want to be more like Princess Peach!".
Mario's big battle with Donkey Kong is a key moment in the story, leading to the formation of the core team. That must have been a fun sequence to record.
We had such a blast recording that sequence because it's so funny. Mario has only just learnt how to use all the power-ups and he's in a fight with Donkey Kong, who is just having the time of his life and flexing his muscles. It was really fun to do. We screamed a lot for that one, and by the end of it, you get the core team where everyone is together and figuring out their differences.
Can you talk about what each of these characters brought to the team?
I think Peach is good at getting people together, and she's good at setting a plan. Mario brings the heart. He really wants to find Luigi and he galvanises all of us around that. Then you have Toad, who's just an eternal little ray of sunshine and your ultimate hype man. And Donkey Kong is a bit more reluctant on this ride. He didn't want to be on it, but he is bringing the laughs.
Illumination and Nintendo have teamed up to make The Super Mario Bros. Movie. What can you say about what these two giants of their respective mediums have accomplished here?
Illumination really understands what it is to entertain the audience. They know how to put everything in there that will appeal to all ages. So, you don't just have the kids enjoying it, as the adults are enjoying it too.
And Nintendo creates loveable characters. So, together, they've created a visually rich world that appeals to all ages. They've taken this beloved story and made it more three-dimensional.
How would you describe this film in a few words then?
I would say it is fun, epic, colourful and vivid. And it has a lot of heart and is also very funny. It's just a really fun ride!