Wish is one of those Disney films that has the potential to be a memory maker, however, it falls short. It combines many elements and connections from the franchise’s other films, yetcondenses them to a lacking point. With a length of only ninety-two minutes, Wish is an experience that feels like a shortened version of Aladdin. It opens with a feel of joyful positivity, fun character connections, and warmth all around. Its point of conflict though, is catastrophe and the story becomes lackluster. The musical moments are where this film shines. There is just not much of that Disney magic that some moviegoers may anticipate in Wish. The previous films of director Chris Buck, both Frozen and Frozen II were invigorating, with the Frozen being a stunning success. Wish lacks in its ability to captivate its audience.
The story of wish centers on a young girl named Asha (voiced by Ariana DeBose). She makes a wish upon a star one night however, she is taken by surprise by the one who controls the wishes. The overseer is Magnifico (voiced by Chris Pine). He blindsides Asha with the restrictions of how her wishes reallywork. Much to his chagrin she finds a light to make her wishes potentially come true. There is hope that comes around in the musical moments. The brilliant singing is where the film soars. With the help of her pet goat Valentino (voiced by Alan Tudyk),Asha goes on an adventure to make the wishes in her life come true. Unfortunately, this is a Disney experience that falls short with a weak storyline and script. Wish as an experience is nothing more than a magical bore.
The film attempts to be as innovative as its other Disney films. Chemistry is the problem. Where are the foundations around the settings of Wish? Where is antagonistic vibe and its impact onthe film’s friendly suspense? Questions abound in this trainwreck that is one of Disney’s most underwritten films of the year. It soars with animations and beloved songs however it only continues to go down its rabbit hole of feeling like a rushed experience.
A redeeming factor is the character of Asha as an icon for younger individuals who will see this film and find joy in it regardless. For others though (with more developed minds) the experience is one that will feel like a waste of time. There is nothing memorable in Wish to place it in the category of iconic classics with Buck’s other successes. The only joyful aspect is found in its music. Sadly, that may be the only category where this film has meaning.
A Disney experience of positive vibes, but not enough layers of happiness and innovation to make many memories. Wish does nothing more than keep the viewer curious to when the storylinewould pull together and build up its fascination. Sadly, it fails to accomplish that. Two out of four stars for Wish.
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