Disney’s newest animation, ‘Wish’, is making waves not just for its star-studded cast including Chris Pine and Ariana DeBose, but also for its bold technical choice. The film, set in the whimsical town of Rosas, follows the journey of young Asha as she navigates the complexities of growing up, intertwined with the magical antics of King Magnifico. The king, portrayed by Pine, dedicates his life to granting wishes to the townspeople, a noble act stemming from his own family’s tragic past.
However, what sets ‘Wish’ apart in the realm of animated films is its unique aspect ratio of 2.55:1. This choice marks a departure from the standard 2.39:1, pushing the boundaries of traditional animation storytelling. As viewers dive into the vibrant world of Rosas, they are greeted with a broader and more immersive visual experience, a move that has sparked both interest and debate among cinephiles.
‘Wish’: Disney’s New Animation Challenges Cinematic Norms with Unique Aspect Ratio
At its core, ‘Wish’ is a tale of dreams, aspirations, and the complexities of human (and animal) characters. Asha, grappling with the dichotomy of her strengths and weaknesses, finds herself at a crossroads on the eve of her 18th birthday. Meanwhile, her grandfather Sabino, played by Victor Garber, approaches his own milestone, adding another layer of depth to the story. The film’s narrative also takes a surprising turn as King Magnifico’s true nature is revealed, challenging the characters to reclaim their dreams.
We just saw it. Loved #Wish! https://t.co/6exsGTQR4F
— DisneyDad (@JustinFinestone) December 1, 2023
The film features a blend of what some may call ‘bland’ songs and a speaking goat named Valentino, voiced by Alan Tudyk, adding a touch of humor to the mix. However, it’s the film’s technical aspect, particularly its aspect ratio, that has become a topic of conversation. While it provides a unique viewing experience, it raises questions about its necessity and impact on the overall storytelling. This choice harks back to the days of ‘Ben-Hur’ and other cinematic epics, but does it add to the film’s narrative, or is it merely a stylistic choice?
In a world where cinema screens are traditionally built to a 2.39:1 ratio, ‘Wish’ challenges this norm, potentially setting a precedent for future animations. Yet, the question remains: does this technical leap enhance the storytelling, or is it simply a cinematic novelty?
