“Wish” is a delightful animated fantasy film that hit the screens on November 22, 2023. Blending elements of adventure, comedy, and heartfelt emotion, this Disney production takes viewers on a magical journey. Directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” celebrates the studio’s 100th anniversary with a story that feels timeless yet fresh. This review will explore the movie’s highlights, its audience appeal, and how it fared at the box office, offering a comprehensive look at this cinematic gem.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
Set in the enchanting kingdom of Rosas, “Wish” follows the story of Asha, a young and spirited teenager with an unwavering belief in the power of hope. When her community faces an unexpected threat, Asha’s heartfelt plea to the stars leads to an extraordinary adventure. Accompanied by Star, a celestial being brought to life by her wish, Asha embarks on a quest filled with courage, friendship, and self-discovery. Without revealing too much, the film’s narrative weaves a beautiful tapestry of dreams and determination.
What’s Good?
One of “Wish’s” strongest assets is its stunning animation. The film blends traditional hand-drawn artistry with cutting-edge CGI, creating a visually mesmerizing experience. The kingdom of Rosas is brought to life with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and a magical ambiance that captivates from the first frame.
The voice cast delivers exceptional performances. Ariana DeBose as Asha brings warmth and depth to the character, making her journey relatable and inspiring. Chris Pine’s portrayal of the enigmatic King Magnifico adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, while Alan Tudyk’s comedic timing as Valentino, a talking goat, provides much-needed humor.
The music, composed by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice, is another highlight. The songs are not only catchy but also emotionally resonant, driving the story forward. Tracks like “This Wish” linger in the mind long after the credits roll, becoming anthems of hope and perseverance.
Direction by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn deserves special mention. Their ability to balance lighthearted moments with profound themes makes “Wish” a movie that appeals to both children and adults. The pacing is tight, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, and the film’s heartfelt message about the power of wishes resonates universally.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Visuals: The animation style is breathtaking, merging the charm of classic Disney with modern techniques.
- Music: Memorable songs that enhance the storytelling.
- Voice Acting: Stellar performances by the cast, especially Ariana DeBose and Chris Pine.
- Themes: The movie’s message about hope and unity is both timely and timeless.
Weaknesses:
- Predictable Plot: While the story is heartwarming, it’s somewhat formulaic and doesn’t stray far from Disney’s usual narrative structure.
- Limited Character Development: Some supporting characters could have been explored more deeply to add richness to the story.
Despite these minor shortcomings, “Wish” delivers an overall enchanting experience.
Target Audience
“Wish” is perfect for families seeking wholesome entertainment. Its magical themes and humor make it ideal for children, while the deeper messages and nostalgic Disney charm will resonate with adults. Fans of musicals and animation will especially enjoy this cinematic treat.
Box Office Details
“Wish” was produced on a budget of approximately INR 1,200 crore ($150 million). The movie opened to strong numbers, reflecting its universal appeal and Disney’s marketing prowess.
Worldwide Box Office Collection:
- Total: INR 2,000 crore ($250 million) as of the first week.
Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas):
- Day 1: INR 30 crore (India), INR 80 crore (Overseas)
- Day 2: INR 28 crore (India), INR 75 crore (Overseas)
- Day 3: INR 35 crore (India), INR 90 crore (Overseas)
- Day 4: INR 25 crore (India), INR 70 crore (Overseas)
- Day 5: INR 20 crore (India), INR 65 crore (Overseas)
The film’s performance highlights its broad appeal, with significant contributions from international markets.
Recommendation
“Wish” is a delightful addition to Disney’s legacy, combining stunning visuals, memorable music, and a heartwarming story. While it may not break new ground, its charm and universal themes make it a must-watch. Highly recommended for families and anyone who believes in the magic of wishes.
Genres:
Animation, Family, Fantasy, Adventure
Rating:
6.336/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Ariana DeBose | Asha (voice) |
| Chris Pine | King Magnifico (voice) |
| Alan Tudyk | Valentino (voice) |
| Angelique Cabral | Queen Amaya (voice) |
| Victor Garber | Sabino (voice) |
| Natasha Rothwell | Sakina (voice) |
| Jennifer Kumiyama | Dahlia (voice) |
| Harvey Guillén | Gabo (voice) |
| Niko Vargas | Hal (voice) |
| Evan Peters | Simon (voice) |
| Ramy Youssef | Safi (voice) |
| Jon Rudnitsky | Dario (voice) |
| Della Saba | Bazeema (voice) |
| Keone Young | Mountain Climber / Tall Man Tourist / Guard 1 (voice) |
| Lucas Sigler | Bunny / Baby Mushroom (voice) |
| Holland Watkins | Mouse / Mountain Climber Wife (voice) |
| Woody Buck | The Stag / Guard 2 / Citizen 5 (voice) |
| Efé | Ship Captain / Fan Tourist (voice) |
| Nicole Lynn Evans | Mountain Climber’s Wife / Mother Tourist (voice) |
| Heather Matarazzo | Flying Woman (voice) |
| Nasim Pedrad | Sania (voice) |
| Abraham Sigler | Tourist Boy (voice) |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
