Wish (2023)

 

Over 100 years, the Walt Disney company has entertained audiences for generations. More specifically, through their animated features. Founded by Walt himself, along with his brother Roy, the company has secured its place with everyone by bringing timeless stories that audiences can and will enjoy. One of their most recent attempts, is an animated feature called “Wish”, celebrating a centennial of hard work, and some magic along the way. And the result is that this new feature is quite good. Not perfect, but it is still keeping the fairy tale formula well and alive. There are some flaws that are present, but that doesn't hinder the overall experience. “Wish” is a celebration of all things Disney with a modern twist on a classic formula.

The story is set on the Mediterranean Sea with the kingdom of Rosas residing over the land. This particular kingdom is important as its king, King Magnifico (Chris Pine) is also a sorcerer who grants wishes to the public. On one particular day, King Magnifico meets Asha (Ariana DeBose), a young girl who desires to be the king's apprentice. However learns that the king is holding wishes and only grants those he deems necessary. Upon hearing this, Asha flees from the king, makes a wish on a star. Soon, a magical star comes down makes the surreal become real. Like making a goat talk (Alan Tudyk). Now, with the help of the star, Asha plans on making things right and bringing back all of the wishes back to their respective owners, in the hopes of making their dreams come true.

“Wish” does succeed in a few areas that are worth mentioning.

For starters, the design for this movie is incredible. The whole movie looks like it came from the golden era of Disney, with water colors being imposed onto 3D backgrounds. On top of this, the character designs definitely feel like Disney, and the movement of the characters is solid to say the least. In fact, the whole movie feels like a 2D drawing come to life in the modern world of 3D animation. And besides, this is a movie that one needs to see on the big screen.

Another good thing about the movie is the pacing. At only 95 minutes, the film keeps the viewer invested throughout its running time. It's easy to comprehend, and you get a sense of the world that this movie takes place in. Plus, there are moments where the film lets the audience breath for a bit, before moving forward with the next bit of action.

The actors and actresses do a fine job with what they are given. Directors Chris Buck and newcomer Fawn Veerasunthorn, give a familiar spin on an old classic, making “Wish” feel nostalgic and relatable at the same time. And, each performance does add a little charm to the roles that everyone is assigned to, especially Tudyk who basically steals the show by doing a near-impression of Patrick Stewart.

The music is also very good, as well. The orchestration from Dave Metzger and songs by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice, are easy to remember, and are quite catchy. From the opening number, to the villain song (yes, there's actually a villain song in a Disney movie this time), the music is definitely a treat for the ears. And, the main theme of the movie definitely one of the best songs to come out from Disney. Also, stay after the credits, and the nostalgia will clearly be there.

But with that said, there are some issues that make “Wish” a complication.

For instance, while the pacing isn't a huge issue, the main story is. The story is so easy to go and figure out, that you wonder if Disney was actually playing it safe with this one. Plot threads are easy to point out, and there are plot holes that are noticeably present. It also feels like it was rushed at the last minute; considering that 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of the Disney company, the writers tried to include as many Easter eggs as much as possible. And it is quite noticeable near the end. There is also a lot of conveniences that happen way too often, with the response of: just let it happen. And even when logic is given, it doesn't last that particularly long.

Another thing that deteriorates the film are the characters. Sure, the actors and actresses do a good job with what is given to them, but their motivations are so easy to follow and understand, it's kind of ironic nothing is that surprising at all. Especially with a weak story to follow, there are no major twists or turns. The characters are generic to say the least.

But that doesn't mean “Wish” is a terrible film by any means necessary.

“Wish” is good, and it does have problems concerning its story, but the overall experience is worth the magic that Disney has been producing over the past 100 years.

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