Disney’s latest animated adventure, “Wish,” is more than just a film; it’s a celebration of Disney’s century-long legacy. With over 100 Easter eggs, allusions, and nods to classic Disney films, “Wish” pays tribute to the magic that has enchanted audiences for generations.
The filmmakers behind “Wish” confirmed this abundance of references, with producer Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones even creating a spreadsheet to track them all. Co-directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn estimate the count to be between 100 and 150, emphasizing the extensive effort put into crafting this homage to Disney’s storied history.
“Wish,” co-written by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, draws inspiration from the 100th birthday of the Walt Disney Company, founded by Walt and Roy Disney in 1923. The film’s narrative revolves around a 17-year-old girl named Asha, who leads a rebellion against a wish-suppressing ruler in the utopian Kingdom of Rojas.
As the story evolved, references to Disney’s iconic moments naturally found their way into the narrative. The film captures classic Disney tropes, including interviews with sorcerers, wishing upon stars, talking to animals, and confronting evil royals. Additionally, there are subtle salutes to the studio, like a Mickey-shaped mask and a hidden poison apple.
The film’s star, Ariana DeBose, who won an Oscar for her role in “West Side Story,” has been on the lookout for these hidden gems. She mentions references to “Alice in Wonderland,” “Pocahontas,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Fox and the Hound,” “Bambi,” and even “Atlantis” and encourages viewers to embark on their own treasure hunt within the film.
Here’s a glimpse of some of the Disney Easter eggs and references discovered in “Wish,” with the caveat that there are likely many more yet to be uncovered:
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarves: Asha’s seven friends at the castle are inspired by Snow White’s seven dwarves.
- Sleeping Beauty: The film’s animation style and aspect ratio draw inspiration from this classic.
- Tangled: Asha’s song about a townsperson with long hair mirrors Rapunzel’s story.
- Multiple Disney Films: The film begins with a storybook opening, reminiscent of Snow White, Pinocchio, and Sleeping Beauty.
These references serve as a heartfelt tribute to Disney’s enduring legacy, making “Wish” a delightful experience for fans of all ages. With over 100 Easter eggs to discover, the film invites viewers to immerse themselves in the magic of Disney once more, celebrating a century of storytelling and creativity.
