Meledandri also chatted about the social media buzz around its untitled Super Mario movie whose A-list voice cast is led by Pratt playing the titular video game character. A casting choice which has been called out online due to the fact that Pratt isn’t Italian.
“Chris was cast because we felt he could give a great performance as Mario. And now that we’ve done about 15 recording sessions, and the movie is three-quarters done, I sit here and say that I love his performance as Mario,” said Meledandri. He said that considering he had “Italian American heritage, he could make that decision without worrying about offending Italians or Italian Americans.” “I think we’re gonna be just fine. Especially because (Pratt) he’s given such a strong performance.”
The Super Mario Bros. adaptation is due to hit theaters on April 7 in North America, followed by a Japanese release on April 28. The film was initially set to release on Dec. 21 in time for the holiday season.