Wish Blu-ray Review
Score: 77
from 3 reviewers
Review Date:
While 'Wish' dazzles visually with sumptuous animation and high technical merits, its predictable story and inartful song score may detract from its charm.
Disc Release Date
DTS-HD MA
Video: 86
Disney's 'Wish' on Blu-ray boasts a stunning AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.55:1, capturing a rich palette of teals and purples that bring depth and dimension to its traditional animation style. Despite a 2K DI, detail and contrast are impeccable, with a canvas-like texture elevating the HD presentation, all without visible artifacting.
Audio: 86
Disney's Blu-ray of 'Wish' delivers an engaging audio experience with its DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, providing clear dialogue and musical elements. Immersive ambient effects and well-utilized surrounds create a compelling audio landscape, while bass adds depth to songs, albeit without Dolby Atmos verticality.
Extra: 63
The Blu-ray extras for "Wish" offer a comprehensive dive into Disney's legacy, with highlights including the heartfelt tribute "Once Upon a Studio," a detailed nine-part documentary "100 Years in the Making," and an engaging Easter egg segment. Complemented by outtakes, deleted scenes, and song selections, these features enrich the viewing experience.
Movie: 46
Wish ambitiously aims to encapsulate Disney's century-long legacy, yet it falls short with uninspired storytelling, uninventive animation, and lackluster song scores, overshadowed by what feels more like a vehicle for self-congratulation rather than a fresh magical celebration.
Video: 86
The Blu-ray presentation of Disney's "Wish" offers an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a widescreen 2.55:1 aspect ratio, highlighting the prowess of high definition even with a mere 2K DI. The visual presentation is a stunning homage to a midcentury modern design aesthetic reminiscent of classics like "Sleeping Beauty," enriched with an evolved dimensionality characteristic of the current decade. The palette reproduction is particularly noteworthy, with a vibrant emphasis on teals and purples contrasted brilliantly against the bright yellows and traditional Disney greens, especially during the climactic moments. Despite some fuzziness around Star, the character details are exquisitely precise, presenting humans, animals, and flora with exceptional clarity.
This transfer excels in delivering a multi-layered animation experience that feels almost three-dimensional. The detail is impeccable, ensuring sharpness without visible aliasing even from a distance. While not bombastic, the pastel-like hues lend zest and vitality to the viewing experience. The film’s color depth and dimension provide a glowing depiction of its kingdom backdrop, further enhanced by sunlight in numerous scenes. Despite the absence of a 4K release, this HD peak highlights defining lines clearly and offers a canvas-like texture that captures the paper aesthetic with precision.
Black levels are rendered accurately, adding depth without any artifacting issues, cementing "Wish" as a visually captivating spectacle for any home theater setup. Although no HDR embellishments are present, the existing lighting schemes provide ample dimensionality and vibrancy. Overall, this high-definition presentation will undoubtedly satisfy viewers seeking an immersive animation experience even without comparing digital versions directly with the Blu-ray.
Audio: 86
The Blu-ray edition of "Wish" features an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track that offers a rich and immersive auditory experience, showcasing Disney's continued excellence in audio presentation. Despite the absence of Dolby Atmos on this format, notable differences between this track and the 4K UHD disc's Atmos track are minimal. The DTS-HD Master Audio track excels with clear separation and utilization of side and rear channels, particularly enhancing the environmental effects and musical underscoring. Percussion instruments receive a standout treatment, contributing to comprehensive surround effects, while dialogue is consistently rendered with clarity.
The presence of vibrant and engaging music tracks is a hallmark of Disney's animated films, and "Wish" is no exception. The DTS-HD 7.1 mix encapsulates the listener with an enveloping soundstage, effectively harnessing all speaker channels—left, right, center, and rears—for a seamless audio experience. This is particularly evident during spell-binding magical sequences, where soundtracks glide gracefully across the audio spectrum. The bass is subtly impactful, providing the songs with additional depth and resonance without overwhelming the listener.
Overall, this Blu-ray's audio presentation remains faithful to Disney's high standards, adeptly fulfilling expectations with its well-executed sonic landscape. The included optional English, French, and Spanish subtitles offer additional accessibility for viewers. This release effectively captures the essence of "Wish," delivering a cohesive and engaging auditory journey that complements the film's enchanting narrative.
Extras: 63
The Blu-ray extras for "Wish" offer a rich and insightful journey into the Disney legacy. Highlighted by Once Upon a Studio, this featurette sets a nostalgic tone while celebrating Disney's historic animated gems, starring Disney artist Burny Mattinson. The comprehensive, multi-part documentary 100 Years in the Making: The Story of Wish unfolds over an hour, providing in-depth interviews and a detailed evolution of the Disney project. Wish D-Classified serves as an enjoyable exploration of Easter Eggs scattered throughout the film, offering intriguing links to other Disney classics. The disc features light-hearted Outtakes and includes the enchanting Deleted Song - A Wish Worth Making. Additionally, five Deleted Scenes are presented with insights from Mark Kennedy, displayed in their initial animation stages. The Song Selection section allows direct access to the movie's memorable musical numbers, elevating this Blu-ray package.
Extras included in this disc:
- Once Upon a Studio: A homage to Disney's animated legacy.
- 100 Years in the Making: The Story of Wish: An extensive documentary of Disney's evolution.
- Wish D-Classified: Overview of Disney Easter Eggs.
- Outtakes: Compilation of live-action voice moments.
- Deleted Song - A Wish Worth Making: An introduction to a song by Chris Buck & Fawn Veerasunthorn.
- Deleted Scenes: Five scenes with introductions by Mark Kennedy.
- Song Selection: Direct access to film songs.
Movie: 46
"Wish," Disney's ambitious centennial tribute, presents an audacious attempt to encapsulate the studio's storied legacy within a single narrative. Despite valiant intentions, the film is perceived as an overtly self-congratulatory work that lacks the timeless specificity often associated with Disney classics. Set in the idyllic kingdom of Rosas, Wish features King Magnifico (Chris Pine) whose monopoly over his citizens' dreams unfolds through oppressive rituals, a theme that resonates with foreboding familiarity. Asha (Ariana DeBose), the determined protagonist, finds herself in a battle against this tyrannical reign with the help of a mysterious star and quirky companions. While the plot echoes iconic Disney tropes, its derivative nature and excessive homage somehow dilute the potential for fresh storytelling.
Visually, "Wish" strives to capture the whimsical essence that characterizes Disney animation; however, its execution has been likened unfavorably to knock-off productions rather than celebrating authentic craftsmanship. The animation's digital sleekness seems at odds with the tactile beauty of traditional Disney artistry. Critics observe that while it attempts to mirror classical styles, it falls short of delivering the emotional depth audiences have come to expect. The film's aesthetic appeal is overshadowed by its reliance on Easter eggs and callbacks, appearing more as calculated nods than organic incorporations into a cohesive world.
Musically, "Wish" struggles to deliver memorable compositions, a stark contrast to Disney’s rich musical heritage. With songs described as erratic and lacking in structure, co-songwriter Julia Michaels' contributions fail to captivate, despite Ariana DeBose's commendable vocal efforts. Nevertheless, Dave Metzger’s score provides some redemption with its innovative percussion use. Ultimately, "Wish" may serve as an amusing scavenger hunt for diehard Disney fans, but for those seeking innovation and magic, it seems to linger in the shadow of its predecessors, unable to escape the gravitational pull of nostalgia.
Total: 77
"Wish" presents a visual feast that is characteristic of Disney's renowned animation prowess, yet it struggles to deliver a fresh narrative punch due to its overly familiar storyline. The film's intention might have been to evoke nostalgia and wonder akin to Disney's earlier masterpieces; however, it lands on craft territory that feels repeatedly trodden, diminishing its potential impact. The musical score adds further complexity—it detracts more than it energizes—thereby leaving the stunning visuals as the central point of engagement for audiences.
From a technical standpoint, the "Wish" Blu-ray showcases top-notch features that align with Disney's high standards of quality. Video performance on this release is stellar, making full use of the Blu-ray format to deliver vibrant colors and intricate animation details. Audio quality is equally impressive, though the songs might not climb to the heights expected from Disney's rich heritage of musical excellence. The supplementary materials included in the release enhance the overall viewing experience, offering insights and additional value for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, while "Wish" might not reach the emotional or creative heights of Disney classics, it remains a visually impressive piece worth exploring for animation fans. The film may find its audience amongst those who appreciate Disney's technical artistry, even if the story and music do not resonate universally. This release holds merit within its stunning presentation and holds the potential for enjoyment within its ephemeral beauty, despite any shortcomings in narrative depth or innovativeness.
Blu-ray.com review by Jeffrey KauffmanRead review here
Video: 100
Perhaps surprisingly, this had "only" a 2K DI, but with animated fare that "lesser" resolution may be of relatively little importance, and this high definition presentation is often stunning, especially...
Audio: 100
While there may be some increased verticality in moments like Star's descent from the heavens, the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track provides clear and consistent immersion in terms of both swirling ambient...
Extras: 80
Wish D-Classified (HD; 6:27) offers a brief "easter egg" overview of references to other Disney films contained within this film....
Movie: 60
Wish is elegantly produced, with a whimsical visual sense that brings the characters wonderfully to life in the time honored Disney way, but the film just feels listless and kind of curiously uninspired,...
Total: 60
Technical merits are first rate and the supplements very enjoyable, and the "snark hunt" aspect of the film may offer some fun for anyone who may be considering making a purchase....
Blu-ray Authority review by Matt BrightonRead review here
Video: 90
However, given the medium, there really isn’t any artifacting to speak of and it’s essentially what we’d expect – a great-looking picture that’s sure to please....
Audio: 90
As is the case with most, if not all, of Disney’s animated titles – there are songs, songs and yes…even more songs....
Extras: 60
100 Years in the Making: The Story of Wish – A nine-part featurette that breaks down the etymology of the project as well as giving us a pretty in-depth history of Disney....
Movie: 0
I suppose if you’re one of the most influential companies to ever exist and have been around for a century – the ability and desire to pat yourself on the back will eventually surface....
Total: 70
But I know that Disney’s animation is the stuff dreams are (or were) made of, so if that’s up your alley then this might be for you....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
With no 4K release, the sharpness hits a notable HD peak, defining the thin lines around the characters....
Audio: 80
Although not Atmos, the surrounds engage well, tracking magical spells as they shimmer through the sky....
Extras: 60
A nine-part making-of runs just over an hour, but it’s artificially toned toward Disney’s legacy/importance....
Movie: 40
The core story about wishes being stolen by a king is impossibly dystopian, and when the credits roll showing off Disney’s iconic characters, it’s just a reminder of how far this studios fallen to make...
Total: 65
Utterly soulless, Wish is less a tribute to Disney’s founder than an executive exercise in self-congratulation....
Director: Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn
Actors: Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk
PlotIn a vibrant kingdom where wishing upon a star is more than just a saying, 17-year-old Asha discovers that these stars are not simply celestial ornaments but hold the power to grant true desires. Asha's idyllic life takes a swift turn when she learns of an impending danger that threatens to drain the kingdom of its magic, leaving it devoid of hope and wonder. Armed with intelligence and a heart full of courage, she joins forces with Star, a celestial being, embarking on an epic quest to save her world from impending doom. Alongside an unlikely ally, a witty young goat named Valentino who mysteriously gains the ability to speak, Asha must decipher ancient clues and confront formidable challenges that test the strength of her convictions and the depth of her values.
As their journey unfolds, Asha discovers not only the latent potential within herself but also learns about the binding tenets of unity, courage, and selflessness driving her diverse community. Each step draws them closer to unearthing secrets long buried and reconnecting with the foundational bonds between humanity and celestial forces. Through encounters with fellow villagers and unexpected allies, Asha realizes that the true essence of making wishes come true lies in collective strength and unwavering belief in goodness. The journey reveals how nurturing inner light can illuminate even the darkest paths, altering destinies and forging ties that bind them all together against any looming threat.
Writers: Jennifer Lee, Allison Moore, Chris Buck
Release Date: 22 Nov 2023
Runtime: 95 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English