Entertainment

Universal's 'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Continues Strong Box Office Performance; John Waters Celebrates 80th Birthday

authorBy Roger Ebert

DateApr 13, 2026

Read time2 min

This episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast explores the continued success of 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' at the box office and offers valuable perspectives on interpreting initial weekend earnings. It also celebrates the notable filmmaker John Waters, highlighting his career and reflections as he reaches his 80th year.

'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Dominates Box Office

The 'Daily Variety' podcast delves into the ongoing remarkable performance of 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' in cinemas. Film analyst Jack Dunn provides a comprehensive breakdown of its impressive box office figures, offering an expert view on what drives its sustained popularity. The segment also sheds light on the intricacies of evaluating early box office indicators, specifically focusing on Friday night numbers as a crucial predictor of a film's overall weekend success. This analysis helps listeners understand the dynamics of current cinematic trends and the factors contributing to a movie's financial triumphs.

The film's continued strength at the box office suggests a strong connection with audiences, translating into significant revenue for Universal. Jack Dunn's detailed discussion covers not only the raw numbers but also the strategic elements that studios employ in marketing and distribution to achieve such results. Understanding how these initial box office figures are analyzed provides valuable insights into the broader entertainment industry and the complex interplay of audience reception, critical acclaim, and marketing efforts. The success of 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' underscores the enduring appeal of established franchises when adapted thoughtfully for the big screen.

John Waters' Milestone 80th Birthday Celebration

In another engaging segment, Marc Malkin presents a special "Just for Variety" interview with the iconic director John Waters. As Waters prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday on April 22nd, the conversation offers a unique glimpse into the mind of this influential and often unconventional filmmaker. The interview explores his distinguished career, reflecting on his contributions to cinema and his distinctive artistic vision that has challenged and delighted audiences for decades.

John Waters, known for his boundary-pushing and provocative style, discusses his journey through filmmaking, offering anecdotes and wisdom gained over a lifetime in the industry. The interview serves as a tribute to his lasting impact on independent cinema and culture. Listeners gain an appreciation for Waters' enduring creativity and his perspective on turning 80, making this a memorable feature of the podcast that highlights a true legend in the world of film. His insights provide a fascinating look at the evolution of artistic expression and the personal reflections of a celebrated figure.

Exploring Humanity in Silicon Valley: The Audacity's Creator on Tech's Impact

Jonathan Glatzer, creator of AMC's 'The Audacity,' discusses the series' critique of Silicon Valley's pervasive influence. The show, which premiered on April 12, uses satire to examine humanity's slower pace against rapid technological advancements, highlighting the shift from optimistic innovation to a jaundiced view of tech's impact on society. Glatzer emphasizes the importance of humanizing characters within this high-stakes environment.

By Ta-Nehisi CoatesApr 13, 2026

Jo Marie Payton's Road to Recovery

Actress Jo Marie Payton, known for her roles in 'Family Matters' and 'Proud Family', recently shared an update on her health after a medical emergency left her unable to walk or speak. Now, after five months, she's making significant progress and expressing gratitude for the support she's received.

By Ricky GervaisApr 13, 2026

CNN Appoints New AI and Machine Learning Head

CNN has appointed Chris Wiggins, formerly the chief data scientist at the New York Times, to lead its new machine learning and AI science team. This strategic move aims to enhance CNN's digital transformation by leveraging AI for revenue optimization, personalized user experiences, and data-driven editorial decisions. Wiggins, with a strong background in data science and theoretical physics, will be crucial in advancing CNN's technological capabilities.

By Roger EbertApr 13, 2026

Dan Levy's Creative Journey Beyond "Schitt's Creek" with "Big Mistakes"

Dan Levy discusses his evolution as a creator, moving beyond the beloved "Schitt's Creek" to explore new genres and storytelling. He shares insights into the making of his latest Netflix series, "Big Mistakes," a crime thriller comedy, emphasizing the importance of creative integrity, collaborative efforts, and authentic representation of diverse characters. Levy also reflects on the challenges and rewards of venturing outside his comfort zone in the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood.

By John LasseterApr 13, 2026

20th Century Studios to Adapt Popular Roblox Game '99 Nights in the Forest' into Feature Film

20th Century Studios has acquired the theatrical film rights to the highly successful Roblox game '99 Nights in the Forest'. The action-survival game, developed by Grandma's Favourite Games, challenges players to endure 99 nights in a haunted forest while rescuing lost children and fending off creatures. With billions of visits and a high player rating, the game is set to be transformed into a genre-diverse film, expanding its reach to a broader audience.

By Guillermo del ToroApr 13, 2026