Illumination Archives ⋆ The Cosmic Circus

‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ is a Cosmic Mess

March 31, 2026 John Dotson Animation, Family Films & Shows, Illumination, Nintendo, Universal Studios 5 min read

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has prompted deep reflection in me. Back in 2023, I was still a new writer

Features Movie Reviews Reviews

Review: ‘Migration’ is refreshingly original and sweet

December 20, 2023 Ayla Ruby Animation, Comedy Films & Shows, Family Films & Shows, Illumination 6 min read

Migration, the newest animated tale from Illumination, directed by Benjamin Renner and written by Mike White, flies into theaters this weekend, just in

Features Movie Reviews Reviews

Review: ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ is an Acceptable Nostalgic Delight

April 4, 2023 John Dotson Animation, Game Adaptations, Games, Illumination, Nintendo, Super Mario Bros 5 min read

The zany and wacky minds at Illumination have finally unlocked the cheat code to the world’s most beloved Italian plumber.

Minions characters from "Minions: The Rise of Gru" movie with colorful background.

Features Movie Reviews Reviews

‘Minions: The Rise of Gru’ Review: Stellar Vibes, Terrible Pacing

July 3, 2022 Tucker Watkins Animation, Illumination, Universal Studios 6 min read

Minions: The Rise of Gru has finally come to theaters after 2 years of delays thanks to the pandemic. I’ll