Wish Review: Latest Disney Cartoon

Disney's "Wish Flixtor" represents a new level of Disney propaganda. While all Disney films have an element of propaganda, movies like "The Lion King" and "Encanto" can still be appreciated as standalone stories. However, "Wish" feels more connected to the history of Disney and the power of imagination that fans associate with it. The film is filled with references to classic Disney movies like "Peter Pan," "Mary Poppins," and "Bambi," emphasizing the idea that we should rely on Disney-branded wishes to find happiness. Additionally, there is a subtle commentary on political leaders who crush the dreams of Disney enthusiasts, reminiscent of figures like Ron DeSantis and Joseph McCarthy.

So what is the result of all this deliberate Disney magic? It falls short compared to when the creators of Disney films allow the magic to naturally emanate from its characters. I believe that anyone who has an annual pass to one of the parks will be thrilled by a movie that my 12-year-old correctly identified as essentially a promotion for the ongoing Disney 100 anniversary event. However, there is still a feeling that all of this is not just manufactured magic, but also empty magic. Despite a couple of powerful musical numbers that eventually lift "Wish" off the ground after a shaky start, the biggest issue here is that the film ultimately becomes something that true magic can never be: forgettable.

In an unspecified time period, "Wish" takes place in a location called Rosas. Despite the visually appealing animation that combines CGI with hand-drawn techniques, the setting of Rosas remains unclear. Asha, a 17-year-old, is preparing to interview for an apprenticeship with the beloved King Magnifico, who is known for his ability to grant wishes. He keeps the wishes of his people in a chamber high above the city and selects one wish to come true in a ceremony. Asha hopes that her 100-year-old grandfather Sabino will finally have his wish granted. However, she soon discovers that Magnifico is not as magnificent as he seems. Instead of granting wishes, he hoards them, and the film explores the theme of how those who make grand promises can manipulate the fulfillment of those promises.