STACK #261 July 2026

MOVIE FEATURE

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THE NEXT LEVEL THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE GENRE: Family adventure RUN TIME: 1h 39m Few animated films have generated as much excitement this year as The Super Mario Galaxy Movie . FUN FACT: Donkey Kong and Luigi’s Mansion spin-off movies are currently in development.

• The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is out Jul 8

F ollowing the enormous success of 2023’s The Super Mario Bros Movie , this cosmic sequel sends Mario and friends far beyond the Mushroom Kingdom on an adventure that spans entire galaxies. Returning favourites include Chris Pratt as Mario, Charlie Day as Luigi, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Jack Black as Bowser, and Keegan-Michael Key as Toad. New additions to the cast include Glen Powell as Fox McCloud, Brie Larson as Rosalina, Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr., and Donald Glover as Yoshi. For Pratt, Mario’s enduring

journey to uncover her origins. “She is far more introspective this time,” says Taylor-Joy. “She is searching for a sense of belonging and identity.” Despite this emotional journey, Peach remains a formidable action hero. “This film gives her incredible action sequences,” Taylor-Joy adds. Inspired by Nintendo’s beloved Super Mario Galaxy games, the story sees Mario and Luigi venture into space after Bowser Jr. launches a galaxy-spanning quest that threatens entire worlds. Along the way, they encounter Rosalina and her adorable Lumas, whose cosmic home becomes central to the adventure. Meanwhile, Jack Black’s Bowser

continues to steal scenes. “Bowser’s got rage in his bones,” says Black. “But

he also wants love. He wants respect. He wants to be seen as more than just the bad guy.” Visually, the film embraces the sense of wonder that made the games so memorable. Colourful planets, gravity-defying action, dazzling nebulae, and imaginative new worlds fill the screen, creating a spectacular adventure that feels perfectly at home among Nintendo’s most beloved creations. Gill Pringle

appeal lies in his determination. “He is a little guy, but

Donald Glover, Charlie Day, Chris Pratt, Jack Black, Anya Taylor- Joy Keegan-Michael Key and Benny Safdie.

he never gives up,” says the actor. “No challenge is too big for him, and that is what makes him heroic.” Princess Peach also takes centre stage, embarking on a personal

IF YOU LIKE THIS, YOU’LL LOVE THESE:

The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Super Mario Bros. (1993) , The Angry Birds Movie, Pixels, Wreck-It Ralph

FUN FACT: Two sequels are in development, adapting two of the three remaining books in the series.

GENRE: Fantasy adventure RUN TIME: 1h 50m

WONDER AWAITS! THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE

magical world filled with eccentric characters and fantastical lands that appear at the top of the tree. As they embark on a series of adventures, they begin to reconnect with each other and rediscover the importance of family. Director Ben Gregor captures the sense of wonder that made Blyton’s original book so enduring. The tree itself feels like a living character, while the vibrant production design, imaginative creatures, and enchanting locations create a world that is both magical and inviting. The film embraces a refreshingly old-fashioned belief in the power of imagination, reminding audiences that adventure can be found in the most unexpected places. Newcomers Delilah Bennett-Cardy, Phoenix Laroche, and Billie Gadsdon shine as the young leads, while a stellar supporting cast adds extra charm. Jennifer Saunders, Rebecca Ferguson, Michael Palin, and Jessica Gunning all make memorable appearances, with Judi Dench lending her voice to Polly’s talking fridge. Warm, whimsical, and packed with heart, The Magic Faraway Tree is a delightful family adventure that introduces Blyton’s classic tale to a new generation. Gill Pringle

From the makers of Paddington and Wonka comes The Magic FarawayTree , a charming family adventure that brings Enid Blyton's beloved fantasy classic to life.

• The Magic Faraway Tree is out Jul 29

F or generations of readers, Enid Blyton’s stories have been a treasured part of childhood, and The Magic Faraway Tree brings one of her most beloved adventures to the big screen in a colourful family fantasy filled with wonder and imagination. Set in the present day, the story follows Tim and Polly Thompson (Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy), who leave city life behind and move their family to the countryside after Polly quits her job in protest over unethical technology practices. Their children, Beth, Fran, and Joe, are far from thrilled, particularly when they discover their new home is a rundown barn without modern comforts. Everything changes when Fran, who has

Nicola Coughlan

been mute for years, encounters a fairy named Silky (Nicola Coughlan). Invited to visit the mysterious Magic Faraway Tree hidden in nearby woodland, the children soon discover a

IF YOU LIKE THIS, YOU’LL LOVE THESE:

Harry Potter, Paddington, Wonderwell, The Secret Garden, Maleficent, Come Away

18 JULY 2026

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