Wish Review

Plot: A young girl named Asha wishes on a star and gets a more direct answer than she bargained for when a trouble-making star comes down from the sky to join her.

Film: Wish

Director: Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn

Writers: Jennifer Lee, Allison Moore, Chris Buck

Starring: Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk

Wish serves as the conclusion to Disney's 100-year celebration and centers around Asha, who aspires to become the apprentice of the king, a formidable sorcerer. While the movie skillfully integrates references to classic Disney elements, at times, these inclusions feel slightly forced, even for an ardent Disney enthusiast like myself.

Despite this, the film remains enjoyable on its own terms. Younger audiences, unfamiliar with all the references, might appreciate it more than seasoned Disney fans. Recognizable characters like Bambi and Peter Pan make brief appearances, and Asha's seven friends, reminiscent of Snow White's dwarves, although charming, occasionally seem contrived, particularly Sneezy and Sleepy.

"Wish" follows a familiar formula—a charming fairy tale of a young girl defying evil and discovering the inherent good in everyone. While the animation, blending watercolor and 3D effects, stands out as the film's strongest aspect, the script occasionally falls short of Disney's usual standards. The jokes are mild, and although Asha shines as the main character, the supporting cast lacks memorability.

Despite this, the film's unique visual style, reminiscent of "Puss In Boots: The Last Wish," combines nostalgia with a hopeful glimpse into the future of animation. While the soundtrack's standout tracks, 'Welcome To Rosas' and 'This Is The Thanks I Get,' didn't resonate with me as intensely as songs from recent releases like Encanto, they did evoke a familiar vibe.

Ultimately, "Wish" culminates in a predictable yet heartwarming Disney-esque ending where wishes come true and while it was by no means a new favourite, it was a fitting celebration of what makes Disney; Disney.