Wish Review: Disney Falls Short on Magic and Originality

• Release date: November 22, 2023 
• Cast: Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk, Angelique Cabral, Victor Garber, Natasha Rothwell, Jennifer Kumiyama, Harvey Guillén, Niko Vargas, Evan Peters, Ramy Youssef, Jon Rudnitsky, Della Saba, Keone Young, Lucas Sigler, Holland Watkins, Woody Buck, Efé
• Genre: Kids & Family, Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy, Animation, Musical
• Director:  Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn
• Producer: Peter Del Vecho, Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones
• IMDb rating: 5.8/10 

Short Summary of the movie

Step into the magical world of Rosas with Disney's newest musical-comedy, "Wish." Meet Asha, a clever dreamer who one day makes a powerful wish that grabs the attention of Star, a little ball of cosmic energy.

Asha and Star team up to take on the mighty King Magnifico in a daring quest to save their community. They want to show that when a brave person's determination meets the magic of the stars, amazing things can happen. Brace yourself for a story full of courage, magic, and incredible possibilities when the human spirit connects with the wonders of the universe. 

Detailed Review of “Wish”

Disney's newest animated film, "Wish," is getting attention for its mix of magic and a hint of cynicism. Unlike classics like "The Lion King" and "Encanto," some say "Wish" feels more like an ad for Disney's 100th anniversary than a complete story.

The film takes place in the charming town of Rosas. King Magnifico, not so magnificent, collects wishes instead of granting them. Asha, the main character, realizes the downside of wish fulfilment. She hopes her grandfather's wish will come true but discovers the king's intentions are anything but kind.

Asha, portrayed by Ariana DeBose, is the star of the show. At 17, she transforms into a magical figure thanks to a wishing star. The film gets interesting as it brings in a silent star. That is not your usual talking character, giving Asha special powers and starting a revolution.

Dave Metzger, Julia Michaels, and Benjamin Rice contribute songs that aren't as popular as "We Don't Talk About Bruno." But these songs add depth to the film. The woodland empowerment scene despite some confusion, is lively and engaging. It injects much-needed energy into the story.

"Wish" gets criticized for depending too much on Disney references and having what seems like manufactured magic. Some say it feels like a product made more for selling stuff than expressing real art. The use of green as the evil colour for King Magnifico is ironic given Disney's status as a big corporation.

The film's cynicism shows more when seen as Disney's centenary celebration. Instead of giving a heartfelt, human experience, "Wish" seems like a marketing move disguised as a fairytale. The plot revolves around taking people's wishes. Also, hints at potential discontent with controlling a society's dreams.

Trying to blend old memories may make people wish for something more. The focus on making money could hide the need for a genuine and real movie experience.

 

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