Wish
Wish is in theaters at the time of writing. Rated PG. Common Sense says 6.
STORY: B-
Story formulas exist for a reason; they work.
If you’ve seen even a few Disney films, I don’t think much in this story will surprise you. It’s a story you’ve heard before. It’s just told in a new place and with new characters who have slightly different dreams.
Some may find its overly familiar structure boring. Many, many others will snuggle up in their chairs , excited to take in a cozy, familiar story.
PEOPLE: B
The lively voice work invigorates the characters.
If you think about it, every animated movie asks us to do something incredible. They ask us to invest our hearts not in actual people, but in drawings of people (or goats or bears or stars or pink polka dotted mushrooms).
It’s often the voice work that fills animated characters with life. Ariana Debose (as Asha) and Chris Pine (as Magnifico) shine the brightest. We root for Asha to succeed because we can hear how much she loves her home and family. We root just as hard for Magnifico to flat flat on his overly handsome face because of Pine’s smarmy line delivery.
FILM NERD STUFF: B+
The combination of classic and modern artwork bewitches the audience.
The blend of modern CGI characters walking, talking, and flying across the old style backgrounds is beautiful. The artists use watercolor backgrounds, similar to the original Pinnochio.
The visual way Las Rosa’s setting is represented is one reason we “believe” the story is real.
GET OUT OF MY DREAMS! (Elective Class): A-
Never let go of your dreams.
Wish asks us some interesting questions. Is all of the work it takes to chase a dream worth it? Is it better to not have a dream, or to be disappointed by not reaching it? How important is it to have a dream? And who does a dream belong to?
The Disney corporation asks us these questions often. Just this summer, Pixar’s Elemental reminded us to follow our dreams instead of living our lives the way others expect us to.
Dreams are the first step. Disney films don’t usually talk much about the second part: hard work and determination. But for films aimed at young audiences, the message about chasing your dreams is appropriate and valuable.
FINAL COMMENTS:
I think audiences will have two types of reactions to this film. Some will complain about its lack of originality. Others will rejoice while they soak in its familiar Disney vibe. While I believe the story could have taken some more chances, I found it to be a delightful way to spend the afternoon.