Cert – U, Run-time – 1 hour 35 minutes, Directors – Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn
After failing to become the sorcerer king’s (Chris Pine) apprentice, Asha (Ariana DeBose) wishes upon a star which travels from the sky and puts the king’s wish-stealing under threat.
When announced as part of the 2022 D23 Expo Wish was simply described as an encapsulation of 100 years of Disney. How did the star that gets wished upon become that very star? The story takes us to the town of Rosas, where on their 18th birthday residents give their hearts desire to the sorcerer king, Magnifico (Chris Pine), in the hope that it will one day be granted at a monthly wish-granting ceremony. However, when trying to become his apprentice Asha (Ariana DeBose) discovers that the king is very picky with which wishes he grants, even wanting to inspire people through music could lead to inspiration to create chaos and riot.
After failing to get the position Asha bursts into song – This Wish is the successful big song of the film, with a big mid-2010s pop song style – and wishes upon a star in the sky. The effect of her wish is that the star, a chubby, tinkling ball-like figure, falls down to the ground and puts Magnifco’s magic, and keeping of wishes, under threat. A plan hatches to reveal the truth about what’s happening to the wishes of Rosas, however the king’s magical power begins to grow darker as he feels increasingly uncertain about what’s happening around him.
The plot overall is relatively thin and simple, contained within a thankful 95-minute run-time. You can feel the markings of a classic Disney film within the narrative and lightness, helping to move things through. The opening shot is a storybook opening up to kick off this fairy tale, with occasional references to past films and characters here and there – although on some occasions just whether something is meant to be a reference or not is questioned. Many of these moments come just before, or in, musical numbers. The songs throughout work rather well and are enjoyable while they unfold, helping to bulk up certain moments and move things along to the next moment.
Much like the songs the film as a whole is a likable piece of work. It moves along with generally little trouble and while not quite pushing any boundaries, or itself, it makes for something watchable and easy enough while it’s on. Plus, finds itself helped by not being a 100-years-of-Disney fest from start to finish, actually telling a(n if light) story without outstaying its welcome. The traditional leanings both help and slightly hinder the film, but for something simplistic it works well enough, and come the end of the credits there’s a nice little effect as the studio shows the positive impact of simplicity.
While the story might be generally light Wish makes for a likable 95-minute run-time focusing on narrative over Disney throwbacks. The songs help move things along and there’s an overall likable nature to the traditional influences of Disney’s centenary celebration.
Just A Little Bit Random 