Wish (2023) – An Animated Feature Falling Short of Enchantment and Originality

The animated feature “Wish” promised to transport audiences to a kingdom overflowing with dreams and desires, yet it ultimately stumbled in its attempt to deliver a truly enchanting experience. While the premise held immense potential for a captivating narrative, the film faltered by relying too heavily on recycled concepts from Disney’s extensive catalog, rather than charting a fresh and innovative course.

At its core, “Wish” introduces us to Asha, a spirited young woman whose admission of caring too deeply sets the stage for her journey. However, as the plot unfolds, the film struggles to strike a balance, cramming numerous elements into its storyline without offering much in the way of originality or bold storytelling choices. As Disney Animation Studios celebrated its centennial year, anticipation was high for a groundbreaking film akin to recent successes from its sister studio Pixar, yet “Wish” failed to meet these expectations, falling flat in its exploration of themes surrounding a controlling ruler and a rebellious heroine.

Set within the realm of Rosas, ruled by the enigmatic King Magnifico voiced by Chris Pine, the narrative revolves around the monarch’s tight grip on the wishes of his subjects, only doled out sparingly on select occasions. Asha, portrayed by Ariana DeBose, emerges as a vocal challenger to his methods, sparking a conflict that forces both characters to confront their innermost desires and fears.

Penned by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, “Wish” aims to convey messages of hope, dreams, and resilience. However, amidst the clash between Magnifico and Asha, these themes often get lost in the shuffle, overshadowed by the film’s convoluted plot and introduction of talking animals, which, rather than adding levity, serve to further muddy the waters of the narrative.

While elements of Jennifer Lee’s signature style, as seen in the “Frozen” franchise, are evident in “Wish,” including moments of whimsy and charm, they fail to seamlessly integrate into the overarching storyline. Instead, they feel like superficial nods to past successes, lacking the depth and resonance needed to elevate the film to new heights. Moreover, the parallels drawn between “Wish” and other Disney classics, such as “Tangled,” only serve to reinforce a sense of familiarity rather than offering something distinct and fresh to audiences.

As the film unfolds, the central conflict remains somewhat ambiguous, leaving viewers uncertain whether the story centers on the struggle against a tyrannical ruler or a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With a weak script hampering their efforts, co-directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn find themselves constrained in their ability to fully realize the potential of the narrative. Additionally, beyond the dynamic duo of Magnifico and Asha, the supporting cast lacks depth and development, further detracting from the overall impact of the film.

Visually, “Wish” presents a unique blend of 3D animation with a 2D aesthetic reminiscent of classic Disney films like “Sleeping Beauty.” While this stylistic choice evokes a sense of nostalgia, certain scenes fall short, rendering characters and elements flat and lacking in dimension. Despite the warm tones and soft color palette, there’s an underlying sense of disconnect that prevents the animation from truly immersing audiences in the world of Rosas.

In terms of music and lyrics, while the songs by Benjamin Rice and Julia Michaels may lack the catchy appeal of those from recent Disney hits, there are commendable performances, particularly from Chris Pine with “This Is The Thanks I Get?” However, the absence of a standout song further underscores the film’s struggles to leave a lasting impression.

In summary, while “Wish” boasts an impressive lineup of talent, both in front of and behind the camera, it ultimately falls short of expectations. Despite the commanding presence of Magnifico, the film fails to resonate with audiences on a deeper level, lacking the magic and charm that have defined Disney classics of the past. As a result, “Wish” struggles to carve out its own place in the pantheon of animated masterpieces, instead serving as a reminder of the importance of originality and innovation in storytelling.