Disney - Wish:  A Press Conference with Visionaries Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn, and Producer Peter Del Vecho

By Mulder, Paris, Le Bristol Paris, 13 november 2023

Wish is not just a film, it's a cinematic spectacle produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and set to hit screens under the Walt Disney Pictures banner. The dynamic duo of Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, the latter making her directorial debut, lead a stellar cast including Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk and many more, bringing to life a tale that promises to resonate across generations.

At the heart of Wish is the captivating story of Asha, a 17-year-old girl whose passionate plea to the stars reveals a darkness in the Kingdom of Rosas that only she can perceive. The story unfolds as Asha's wish is granted by Star, a celestial being with the power to grant wishes. Together, Asha and Star embark on a quest to confront the evils that threaten Rosas and forge a better future.

Our media had the opportunity to enter the enchanting world of Wish at the press conference held today at the prestigious Le Bristol Paris hotel. Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, accompanied by producer Peter Del Vecho, graciously shared their insights into the making of this highly anticipated animated musical film due in 2023. For those unable to attend, we invite you to immerse yourself in the magic with our meticulously captured 4K video coverage :

The genesis of Wish dates back to 2018, a fact that wasn't revealed until January 2022, when Jennifer Lee's involvement was revealed. In September 2022, the project took center stage at the D23 Expo presentation, unveiling its title and the formidable directing team of Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn. The film's unique artistic style, which seamlessly blends traditional Disney watercolor animation with contemporary computer animation, was also unveiled, creating a visual feast that pays homage to Disney's rich history.

The decision to merge traditional and computer animation, initially conceived as an entirely traditional approach, was driven by the desire to overcome the limitations of camera movement and characterization. The result is a seamless visual experience that captures the charm of classic animation while embracing the possibilities of the modern age.

The star-studded cast, led by the talented Ariana DeBose as Asha, adds depth and charisma to the characters. Chris Pine, announced later in April 2023 as the voice of King Magnifico, brings charm and gravitas to the most powerful figure in the kingdom of Rosas. Angelique Cabral, announced as the voice of Queen Amaya, further enriches the ensemble, creating a cast that promises to deliver an unforgettable performance.

The musical score, a crucial element of any Disney production, is in the capable hands of composer Dave Metzger. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean region, Metzger incorporates ethnic percussion and instruments such as guitars, infusing the film with vibrant colors and a rich, immersive sound.

The film's journey doesn't end with its release; it continues in the Disney parks, where Asha will be visiting throughout November to meet a character and captivate audiences at Epcot, Walt Disney World, Orlando (Florida). And this despite the constraints imposed by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike on cast participation in promotional events.

As the film's release approaches, the excitement is palpable and Wish is ready to take its place among Disney's timeless classics, creating a legacy that transcends the screen and leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers young and old.

You can discover our photos in our Flickr page

Synopsis : 
Asha, a quick-witted 17-year-old devoted to her loved ones, lives in Rosas, a kingdom where literally every wish can be granted. In a moment of despair, she makes a wish to the stars, which is answered by a cosmic force: a small ball of infinite energy named Star. Together, Star and Asha face their most formidable enemy yet, and prove that the wish of a determined person, combined with the magic of the stars, can produce miracles...

Wish
Directed by Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn
Screenplay by Jennifer Lee, Allison Moore
Story by Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn, Allison Moore
Produced by Peter Del Vecho, Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones
Starring  Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk, Angelique Cabral, Victor Garber, Natasha Rothwell, Jennifer Kumiyama, Harvey Guillén, Evan Peters, Ramy Youssef, Jon Rudnitsky
Cinematography : Rob Dressel (layout), Adolph Lusinsky (lighting)
Edited by Jeff Draheim
Music by Dave Metzger (score), Julia Michaels (songs) Benjamin Rice (songs)
Production companies : Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release dates : November 8, 2023 (El Capitan Theatre), November 22, 2023 (United States), November 29, 2023 (France)
Running time : 92 minutes

Photos : Boris Colletier / Mulderville