Why Didn’t Chris Pratt Do The Mario Voice?
Chris Pratt didn’t do the Mario voice, the one instantly recognizable from the Nintendo games and the decades of Charles Martinet’s iconic portrayal, because the film’s directors, Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, wanted a different interpretation of the character. Initially, Pratt’s early attempts leaned too heavily into a Tony Soprano-esque inflection, which the directors felt was unsuitable for the “blue-collar hero with a ton of heart” they envisioned. Ultimately, they sought a portrayal that felt more grounded and accessible to a broader audience, rather than a direct imitation of the established video game voice.
The Rationale Behind the Voice Change
The decision to deviate from Charles Martinet’s performance stemmed from a desire to reimagine Mario for a new medium. While Martinet’s voice is undeniably beloved and synonymous with the character, the filmmakers likely believed that translating it directly to a full-length feature film might not resonate as effectively. They aimed for a voice that felt natural coming from a plumber in Brooklyn, aligning with their characterization of Mario as a relatable, everyman hero. Chris Pratt, known for his ability to portray likable and everyman characters, fit this bill. They felt that a more subdued and nuanced performance would allow audiences to connect with Mario on a deeper level. As director Aaron Horvath said, “He’s really good at playing a blue-collar hero with a ton of heart. For the way that Mario is characterised in our film, he’s perfect for it.”
Behind-the-Scenes Considerations
The choice of voice acting is a critical element in animated films. Directors and producers often weigh various factors, including actor recognition, vocal range, and the ability to convey specific emotional tones. In this case, the team may have prioritized Pratt’s star power to draw a wider audience. While die-hard fans were initially skeptical, the film’s success suggests that their strategy paid off. The directors had to balance respecting the source material with creating something fresh and engaging for a new generation of viewers. It’s also worth noting that Charles Martinet was involved in the film, voicing Giuseppe, Mario and Luigi’s father, further solidifying his place in the franchise’s history.
FAQs: Unveiling the Mysteries of Mario’s Voice
Here are frequently asked questions to shed more light on the intricacies surrounding the choice of Chris Pratt as Mario’s voice and related topics:
Did Chris Pratt initially try to do a Tony Soprano voice for Mario?
Yes, according to an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Chris Pratt revealed that his initial attempts at the Mario voice were rejected by the directors because they sounded too much like Tony Soprano from “The Sopranos.”
Why was Chris Pratt chosen to voice Mario in the first place?
Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic stated that they chose Chris Pratt because he is good at playing a “blue-collar hero with a ton of heart,” which aligned with their vision for the character. They believed he could bring a relatable and grounded quality to Mario.
Did Charles Martinet, the original voice of Mario, retire?
Charles Martinet did retire from voicing Mario but remains an ambassador for Nintendo. He played Giuseppe, Mario and Luigi’s father, in The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
How much was Chris Pratt paid to voice Mario?
Chris Pratt was reportedly paid $5 million to voice Mario in The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
What voice actor should have been Mario instead of Chris Pratt?
Some fans suggested actors like John Leguizamo or Mark Hamill as alternatives, reflecting varying opinions on the casting choice.
Was the change in Mario’s voice controversial?
Yes, the choice of Chris Pratt and the deviation from Charles Martinet’s iconic voice sparked significant controversy among long-time fans of the Mario franchise. Some felt it disrespected the established character.
Is Charles Martinet still involved with Nintendo?
Yes, although he has retired from voicing Mario, Charles Martinet remains a brand ambassador for Nintendo.
Why isn’t Mario’s voice more overtly Italian?
Charles Martinet originally created Mario’s unique voice during an audition, diverging from typical Brooklyn accents. His energetic and high-pitched Italian-inspired delivery became the character’s signature.
What other characters were considered for the film but didn’t make it?
One notable character missing from the film is Birdo, a dinosaur-like character who has been a part of the Mario universe for a long time.
Who voices Princess Peach in The Super Mario Bros. Movie?
Anya Taylor-Joy voices Princess Peach in the movie.
Who voices the depressed star in the Mario movie?
Juliet Jelenic voices Lumalee, the depressed Luma, in the film.
How much is Chris Pratt worth?
Chris Pratt has an estimated net worth of $80 million, earned from his roles in franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers, and Jurassic World.
How much did Chris Pratt get paid for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?
Chris Pratt reportedly earned between $20 and $25 million for his role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
What is the Games Learning Society?
The Games Learning Society is a group of researchers and educators who study how games can be used to help students learn, reason, and communicate. Explore more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Is Princess Peach married to Bowser?
No, Princess Peach is not married to Bowser. Bowser has often kidnapped her in an attempt to force her into marriage, but she has never agreed to it. Her affections seem to be leaning towards Mario.
Conclusion: A New Era for Mario
Ultimately, the decision to have Chris Pratt voice Mario without directly replicating Charles Martinet’s performance was a calculated risk. The filmmakers wanted to create a version of Mario that felt fresh and accessible to a wider audience, while still honoring the character’s legacy. The controversy surrounding the voice casting highlighted the deep connection fans have with the character, and the decision making process involved in adapting such a long-loved character. Though it drew criticism, the movie’s commercial success indicates that the choice resonated with a significant portion of the viewing public. This signifies a new era for Mario, with a voice and interpretation tailored for a modern cinematic audience. To explore more about the educational aspects of games and how they impact learning, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.