AI Upscaling of ‘Super Mario Bros. Super Show!’ Draws Criticism
Fans of the classic 1989 cartoon The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! have expressed disappointment with recent broadcasts on MeTV Toons, citing noticeable visual distortions resulting from AI-powered upscaling technology. The show, starring Lou Albano as Mario, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity ahead of the release of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, but the updated visuals are proving divisive.
What is AI Upscaling and Why Was It Used?
AI upscaling is a process used to increase the resolution of older video content, making it more suitable for modern high-definition displays. WildBrain, the distributor of The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!, utilizes “human-led, AI-assisted processes” to enhance the viewing experience of its classic content library. According to a statement provided to Cartoon Brew, the goal is to “increase resolution, improve colour quality and make other adjustments to upscale the overall presentation.” WildBrain explained that they explore these technologies to ensure content remains accessible to audiences for years to approach.
The Backlash and Visible Distortions
Despite the intention to improve the visual quality, many viewers have criticized the results as unnatural and detrimental to the show’s original charm. Reports from Engadget and others indicate that the AI upscaling has led to overly smoothed images, a loss of texture, and even alterations to character appearances. Notably, the title card was reportedly changed to “The Suele Mario Bros. Super Show,” highlighting the challenges AI faces with text recognition.
WildBrain’s Response and Ongoing Corrections
Following the negative feedback, WildBrain acknowledged the issues and stated they are “actively reviewing the episodes and working to correct issues where they occur.” The company recognizes that the original source material, being decades old, sometimes lacks the necessary information for the AI tools to interpret correctly, leading to these “visible distortions.” The process is overseen by professionals who manage the classic content, and is not performed directly by WildBrain’s studio. Cartoon Brew reported on WildBrain’s exclusive statement regarding the situation.
The Broader Implications of AI in Content Restoration
This situation highlights the complexities of using AI in the restoration and upscaling of older media. Even as AI offers a potentially cost-effective way to preserve and enhance classic content, it’s clear that human oversight and careful quality control are crucial to avoid unintended and undesirable results. The case of The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! serves as a cautionary tale for the industry as it increasingly explores the possibilities of AI-assisted restoration.