From Jeff Nelson

The classic Disney animation canon is chock-full of nostalgic heavy-hitters that bring us back to another era of cinema. Wish is a return to this familiar and comforting storytelling with a new tale of magic, a scheming villain, and a hopeful protagonist. It’s sweet and well-intentioned, but is that enough?

Asha (Ariana DeBose) is a vibrant young girl, who’s preparing for an interview for the most prestigious title in the kingdom of Rosas – King Magnifico’s (Chris Pine) assistant. He presides over the lands with his powerful magic, agreeing to grant chosen villagers’ wishes at special ceremonies. When Asha wishes on a trouble-making star, she gets more than she bargained for.

Wish presents itself as a storybook, quickly introducing us to the kingdom through Asha’s opening music number titled “Welcome to Rosas.” There is no romantic interest here, but the townsfolk are utterly enamored by Mangifico’s handsome looks, magical powers, and unparalleled charm. Asha wants to work as his assistant, but her heart remains with her family and her fellow citizens. Magnifico collects the town’s wishes, although his intentions aren’t quite as pure as she expected them to be, pitting her directly against the most beloved and mighty person in the kingdom.

Asha is a delightful lead, exhibiting kindness, determination, and charisma. Similarly, Magnifico brings exactly what Disney fans are expecting from his role as the antagonist. He doesn’t bring any surprises, offering a rather hollow villain. Unfortunately, the supporting cast of characters don’t fare much better. Asha’s closest friends throughout the film recall the spirits of Disney’s famous faces, although the creative decisions here don’t serve much of a purpose aside from fan service. Her baby goat sidekick, Valentino (Alan Tudyk), instills lifeless humor that persistently falls flat. Meanwhile, the very marketable star will be the clear stand-out for most audiences.

When it comes to the music, Wish strikes an inspired chord with a couple of the songs. You won’t find a tune as catchy as Frozen’s “Let It Go” or Encanto’s “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” but “This Wish” and “Knowing What I Know Now” are enjoyable numbers, each of which inject the film with very different energies. 

From the vocals to spoken voice acting, DeBose and Pine are both absolutely exquisite. DeBose brings her infectious quality to Asha, allowing the character to blossom. Meanwhile, Pine gets a rather underwhelming villain song in “This Is the Thanks I Get?!,” but he delivers on the character’s narcissism and darkness with glee. 

Disney brings a unique style in Wish’s animation, fittingly bringing a storybook feel to the screen that matches its narrative framing. It takes some time to adjust to, but it’s undoubtedly eye-catching and fluid. 

Wish fits into the Disney studio canon with a gratifying message, but its basic storytelling is forgettable. DeBose and Pine’s excellent voice performances are clear strengths, elevating the material. However, the film indulges in an excess of Easter eggs and cameos that cheapen the well-intentioned story at work here. It remains sweet and charming enough, but it doesn’t fully stand on its own two feet.

Rating: 2.5/5

Wish hits theaters on November 22nd, 2023.

Follow Jeff