Wish (Review)
Disney's Wish is the century in the making story that serves as a fitting entry into their impressive animated line up of films. Why Disney does not stick with continuing to create original films and stories as this film does is just shocking to me because this film really does shine bright.
In Wish, young Asha (Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful that it's answered by a cosmic force, a little ball of boundless energy called Star. With Star's help, Asha must save her kingdom from King Magnifico (Chris Pine) and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.
The voice cast of the film is fantastic. Lots of talent behind the animation helps this story leap off the screen. You can feel their performances through their characters and how strong each of them are. The standouts are DeBose and Pine though as they serve as the hero/villain duo. The supporting cast includes Alan Tudyk, Evan Peters, Angelique Cabral, Victor Garber, Havry Guillén and Natasha Rothwell; all who are equally as great and serve as a stellar supporting cast.
The animation is also wonderful and colorful. Disney has always thrived with their talented animators and that is no different here. The way the world is painted is a feast for the eyes to examine. It's nothing that you wouldn't expect to see from a Disney film.
The direction of the film is also stellar. Directors Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck showcase a clear vision. I always imagine it is much harder to direct animated films because it may take longer for the director's vision to come out but it always seem seemless as if it was done during a singular day like live action. The long camera takes brings us through the world that makes it seem larger than it really is. The movie takes place in a kingdom that is small and large at the same time and the use of different set pieces throughout the movie allows it to feel grand.
Lastly - the story. As I stated in my opening few sentences the film was marketed as a story a century in the making. The question - is it worth being a story listed as that long in the making? The answer, yes. The film is breathtaking with some great music, messages and enjoyment. It should leave audiences with a giant smile on their faces. I know it did mine. There is something in this film for everyone to enjoy, especially STAR. Star is the newest animated character that is sure to grasp kids' hearts when they experience the film and hopefully allow people to leave with the overall message that it's ok to wish for your biggest dreams to come true - but if you work for your dreams it will be much more worth it in the end.
Wish is truly a movie filled with heart and emotion. It's a love letter to most of the Disney films that came before it and has some great Easter Eggs that long time Disney fans I am sure will pick up on. The only thing that docks points on this one is that it can be quite predictable at times - but it doesn't stop from keeping the story engaging. Check this one out.
