We had fun with it, and that's all I really wanted from it. It’s wonderfully animated, fast-paced, and packed with nostalgia & fan service. The epitome of junk food cinema. The score was great, too!
The movie just “exists.” It hints at having a story (seemingly centered more on Bowser, with 2nd chances, fatherhood, abandonment, etc), but drops it in favor of moving as quickly as possible. Could've been a nice contrast to the Peach storyline if they had fleshed out both a bit more. Didn't need to be Citizen Kane, but at least have something.
I also wish they hadn't spoiled that one character. What should’ve been a big moment hits different since everyone already knew it was coming.
Shoutout to the SMB 2 representation!