We have all wished on stars. Coins in fountains, birthday candles, all with hope in our hearts. Wishing is universal. But what if those wishes come true? What if the answer is a slightly inept male fairy godmother? Get ready, we dive into the world of wishes via the 1997 film, "A Simple Wish".
"A Simple Wish": More Than Just a Kid's Flick?
"A Simple Wish" seems like a typical family movie of the late 90s. It has a cute kid, a struggling dad, a dash of magic, and a villainous Kathleen Turner. But look closer. You might find a nuanced story about family, ambition, and flawed magical intervention. Let’s break it down.
Meet eight-year-old Annabel, played by Mara Wilson. She believes in her dad, Oliver, portrayed by Robert Pastorelli. Oliver dreams of landing a lead role in Broadway. The snag? He's not a household name like Tony Sable, played by Alan Campbell.
Annabel wishes for her dad to get the part. Enter Murray, played by Martin Short. Murray is not your ordinary fairy godmother. He is the first male fairy godmother, and his training was rushed. In a bumbling attempt to grant Annabel's wish, Murray accidentally turns Oliver into a statue. In Central Park. Talk about trouble!
There is also Claudia, played by Kathleen Turner. Claudia is an evil witch banished from the fairy godmother realm for greed. She lurks in shadows, plotting her return. Sounds like a typical day in fairy tale land, right? For more on the movie's details, check out the Wikipedia page for "A Simple Wish".
Disney or Not Disney? That is the Question.
When discussing movies about magic and heart, a key question arises: "Is 'A Simple Wish' Disney?" Surprisingly, no. "A Simple Wish" was produced by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, not Disney. It shares themes with Disney films—wishes, magic, good versus evil—but has its own unique flavor. Think of Disney's mischievous cousin.
Not from Disney, "A Simple Wish" taps into that vein of wish-fulfillment fantasy we often see in Disney movies. It adds humor and cynicism, especially with Kathleen Turner's Claudia. Disney villains are grand. Claudia feels more like a disgruntled boss with dark magic.
Seeking "A Simple Wish" in the Streaming Universe
In today’s world of streaming, many ask: "Where can I watch it?" If you're feeling nostalgic for 90s magic, you may wonder about streaming availability. Currently, "A Simple Wish" isn't on major platforms like Netflix or Hulu or Disney+. But don’t worry! You can still find it via digital storefronts.
If you wish to revisit Annabel’s and Murray’s adventures, you can rent or purchase "A Simple Wish" on platforms like Amazon Video or Apple TV. It takes a small digital transaction, but the magic remains accessible with just a few clicks. Think of it as a little wish granted.
Male Fairy Godmothers: Breaking the Mold, One Mishap at a Time
Murray, our male fairy godmother, sets this movie apart. We expect a kindly fairy godmother, thanks to Disney's Cinderella. "A Simple Wish" asks: why not godfathers? Why not inept ones?
Martin Short's Murray is a fun change from the expected fairy godmother. He’s clumsy and unsure of himself. Like an intern on their first day—eager but clueless. This twist adds humor and relatability to the magical chaos. The film plays with the novelty of a male fairy godmother. Murray's blunders challenge our expectations.
The movie's tagline captures it perfectly: "A bumbling male fairy godmother messes up his first assignment with a young girl and must battle a witch for a new wand!" It promises whimsical chaos and Kathleen Turner being great as a villain. What’s not to love?
Wishing Upon Similar Stars: Movies with a Touch of Magic
If "A Simple Wish" interests you, look for similar films. The realm of wish-themed movies is vast, from heartwarming tales to grand Disney stories. Let’s explore some magic-themed narratives.
On a sentimental note, there’s Hallmark’s "Birthday Wish." Expect heartwarming plots and guaranteed happy endings. This story centers around a woman anticipating a proposal on her 30th birthday. Instead, thanks to a birthday wish gone wrong, she sees a future far different from her expectations. With Jessy Schram and Luke Macfarlane, it’s classic Hallmark romance with cozy sweaters.
Next up is Disney's recent release, "Wish." Out in 2023 for Disney’s centennial celebrations, it explores the origins of wishes in Disney lore. Asha is an idealist in Rosas who makes a wish so strong it is answered by Star, a cosmic force. She must save her kingdom from King Magnifico. It’s an animated adventure exploring wishes and their effects, contrasting "A Simple Wish." For more insights into "Wish," check out Business Insider's article on its Disney Easter eggs.
"A Simple Wish" and the Real-World Wish Granters: Make-A-Wish Foundation
Films about wishes tap into our desire to help others and make dreams come true. This brings us to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. While "A Simple Wish" is fictional, the theme of granting wishes has powerful resonance through this real organization.
To clarify: "A Simple Wish" is not tied to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. They are distinct entities. Yet, both explore the power of wishes—one in fantasy and one in reality.
Disney's long history with Make-A-Wish is heartwarming. Since 1980, they have collaborated with Make-A-Wish to grant wishes for over 155,000 children with critical illnesses worldwide. These experiences fill children’s lives with joy and hope. Disney's brand aligns with the Foundation's mission to create unforgettable moments.
On wish grant champions’ note, we must mention John Cena. The wrestler-turned-actor holds the Guinness World Record for
John Cena granted over 650 Make-A-Wish wishes. His commitment to the Foundation is impressive. It shows how celebrities and true compassion can transform children's lives. This highlights the impact of wish fulfillment on both recipients and those who grant the wishes.
"A Simple Favor": A Wish Gone Darkly Wrong? (Or Just a Favor?)
Now, let's shift from cheerful wishes to a different kind of "favor." Released in 2018, "A Simple Favor" is a dark comedy thriller starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively. It may not focus on wishes directly, but the title and the idea of a favor gone wrong create a sharp contrast to innocent desires behind wishes.
If you want to move from family magic to suspense, "A Simple Favor" is worth your time. You might ask, "Is 'A Simple Favor' on Netflix or Hulu?" The streaming landscape changes often, but currently, "A Simple Favor" is on Netflix. You can also rent or buy it on Fandango at Home. Amazon Prime Video subscribers can find it there as well. Streaming options are plenty for this stylish thriller.
So, what's the story of "A Simple Favor"? Enter single mom Stephanie, played by Anna Kendrick, a vlogger craving excitement. She befriends the glamorous Emily, portrayed by Blake Lively. Emily casually asks for "a simple favor": picking up her son from school. Then, Emily disappears. What starts small unravels into secrets, lies, and unexpected turns. Directed by Paul Feig, known for comedies like "Bridesmaids," "A Simple Favor" mixes humor with suspense, forming an engaging thriller.
The film's backdrop enhances its intrigue. The original novel takes place in Connecticut, but the film adaptation shot in Canada and New York City. This setting provides urban sophistication to small-town secrets. Fans of the film can anticipate a sequel, "Another Simple Favor," which will be set in scenic Capri, Italy. More stylish intrigue awaits in sunlit settings.
On set, the chemistry between Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively shines on screen. Were they friends off-screen? Rumors of tension existed, but insiders dismissed any "bad blood" stories. They were simply coworkers and friends who got along. Good acting can create an on-screen spark.
And what about the climax? Do Stephanie and Sean, Emily's husband, get together? Spoiler alert: yes, they do. After Emily's disappearance and presumed death (which she fakes), Stephanie and Sean, played by Henry Golding, bond through grief and responsibilities. Their relationship grows from shared circumstance to true connection, ending with romance. Thus, mixed within the thriller are touches of unexpected love.
Is "A Simple Favor" based on true events? No, it's fictional, adapted from Darcey Bell's 2017 novel of the same name. Deceit and betrayal drive the plot, exploring gender roles and social expectations with suspense and dark humor. Envision it as modern noir influenced by social media.
And speaking of secrets, what's Stephanie's hidden truth in "A Simple Favor"? It's shocking. Throughout the film, Stephanie hints at a troubled past. The reveal? She had a sexual encounter with her half-brother Chris when they were younger. This suggests a recurring issue. She confides in Emily, adding layers of complexity to Stephanie's character. It enriches the film's exploration of hidden desires and broken identities.
Finally, why did Emily fake her death? The motive stems from classic thriller tropes: insurance fraud and covering a murder. A twisted flashback reveals that Emily drowned her twin sister during childhood. To evade consequence and collect on life insurance, she stages her own death as drowning. This elaborate scheme drives the central conflict of the movie. Thus, "A Simple Favor" diverges from innocent wishes, leaning toward calculated deception instead.
Disney's "Wish": Back to the Wishing Star
Let's return to Disney's wish-centric film, "Wish." As noted earlier, "Wish" is a 2023 animated musical-comedy that serves as an origin story for Disney's iconic wishing star. The film marks Disney's centennial anniversary by delving into wishes coming true.
The plot follows Asha, voiced by Ariana DeBose, in the magical kingdom of Rosas. Asha makes a strong wish answered by Star, a cosmic energy ball. Together, Asha and Star face King Magnifico, voiced by Chris Pine, to save their realm. It's a classic Disney tale of good versus evil, filled with original songs and striking animation.
The concept of "Wish" takes inspiration from Disney's rich history. It embodies a tribute to wishes coming true featured in many Disney films like "Pinocchio" and "The Little Mermaid." "Wish" aims to tell the origin story of that iconic wishing star seen above Cinderella Castle for decades. With music by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice and a score by Dave Metzger, classic Disney magic is present.
For those wanting to watch Disney's "Wish," it is streaming on Disney+. It premiered on that platform in April 2024, easy for subscribers to access. While some might consider using VPNs for Netflix in other areas, Disney+ serves as the main platform for "Wish" in many regions, including the USA. No need for digital tricks to enjoy this animated tale.
Interestingly, the notion of "wishes" also extends to birthday messages. Searching for "How to wish your daughter a happy birthday?" yields examples such as "Happy birthday, my dear [daughter's name]! May your day overflow with joy, laughter, and everything you adore!" Wishes play a role in celebrations and expressions of affection.
There’s also a lesser-known film called "A Wish Come True." This Hallmark movie features a woman named Lindsay who wishes on her birthday. Her wish unexpectedly makes almost three decades of past ones come true at once, leading to romantic and comedic turmoil. It highlights the wish-fulfillment trope within a lighter context.
"Wish," being a Disney centennial film, includes numerous Easter eggs referencing other Disney classics. Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn state that over 100 hidden nods appear throughout the movie. These pay homage to films like "Snow White" and "Peter Pan." They even used an Excel sheet to catalog all references, showing meticulous attention to detail. Fans can uncover treasures during repeat viewings. Learn more about these Easter eggs through this Business Insider article.
The cultural influences within "Wish" stand out. The kingdom of Rosas reflects Hispanic and Mediterranean heritage, giving the film its vibrant visuals. Asha is highlighted as half African and half Iberian descent; her mother is North African while her father has Southern European roots. This representation adds richness to the film's world.
Asha's grandfather Sabino is affectionately named "Saba" by her; Saba means "grandfather" in Hebrew. This detail further enriches the film's cultural depth, hinting at Jewish heritage within Asha's family. Subtle cultural nuances contribute positively to inclusivity and representation within the story.
However, not everyone praised "Wish." Some critics noted its animation style—a mix of 2D and 3D appeared unrefined for some viewers. While the music is catchy, they felt it did not match classic Disney songs in impact or memorability. Some believed that this element detracted from the overall experience.
No standout songs matched "Be Our Guest," "Part of Your World," "Let it Go," or "We Don't Talk About Bruno." The soundtrack felt more like generic pop than a classic Disney score.
Commercially, "Wish" was a box office disappointment for Disney. It earned $255 million globally. Many studios would celebrate that figure. However, for Disney, it was seen as a money-losing flop. This was especially true for a centennial celebration film. High expectations and financial pressures come with Disney animated features.
Beyond Wishes: Other Movie Mentions and Character Cameos
Our wish-filled journey touched on various movies and characters. Let’s briefly discuss more from the brief, expanding our cinematic landscape.
The movie "IF," starring Cailey Fleming and Ryan Reynolds, explores imaginary friends. It does not directly involve wishes but delves into childhood imagination and belief's power. "IF" streams on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Paramount Plus. It is not available on Disney+. If you enjoy imaginary companions, "IF" is ideal.
Princess Tiana from "The Princess and the Frog" holds significance in Disney history. She is Disney's first Black princess. Her story occurs in New Orleans during the Jazz Age. It is a tale of ambition, hard work, and magic. Tiana's dreams and aspirations drive her character arc.
Rosetta, the garden fairy from Tinker Bell movies, is another charming Disney character. Known for her artistic talents, she has a slightly fussy personality. Rosetta appears in "Tinker Bell" (2008) and other films in the series with Silvermist, Iridessa, and Fawn. Interestingly, Rosetta is depicted as Italian, adding diversity to Pixie Hollow's fairy population.
Who can forget Rapunzel from "Tangled"? Her story takes place in the fictional kingdom of Corona, inspired by medieval Germany. It is a classic fairy tale reimagined by Disney. While wishes are not central, Rapunzel’s dream of seeing lanterns fuels her journey of self-discovery and adventure. "Tangled" blends humor, heart, and stunning visuals, solidifying Rapunzel's status as a beloved princess.
The Real Magic of Make-A-Wish: A Wish Come True, for Real
Let’s return to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and its real-world impact. The Foundation's story began with a young boy, Chris Greicius, who battled leukemia. He wished to be a police officer. In 1980, his Arizona community made his wish a reality. He received a police uniform, a helicopter ride, and became an honorary officer for a day. This joyful experience deeply impacted Chris and his community. It inspired the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Chris Greicius's wish was not just a fleeting moment. It ignited a global movement. The impact resonated deeply, showcasing community power and compassion. Making a child's dream come true can spark hope. The Make-A-Wish Foundation created from this single wish has granted countless others to children facing critical illnesses worldwide.
One Simple Wish: Extending the Wishing Spirit to Foster Children
Beyond Make-A-Wish, other organizations also grant wishes and support children in need. One such organization is "One Simple Wish." While Make-A-Wish serves children with critical illnesses, One Simple Wish focuses on children affected by the child welfare system.
One Simple Wish partners with over 2000 social service agencies across the United States. They collect wishes from children in foster care or aging out of the system. Their approach is simple: they connect donors to specific wishes of individual children. This method directly impacts children's lives in a tangible way.
Is One Simple Wish legitimate? Yes, it is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. They maintain transparency about their operations and finances. Donations support children's wishes directly. If you want to extend wish-granting beyond the screen, One Simple Wish offers a meaningful avenue.
From whimsical mishaps in "A Simple Wish" to the heartwarming realities of Make-A-Wish and One Simple Wish, the power of wishes captivates and inspires. Whether through magical movies or real-life kindness, making dreams come true is a powerful human impulse. Sometimes, a simple wish is all it takes to make a world of difference.
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