Wish Dragon

Wish Dragon is a heartwarming 2021 animation movie that perfectly blends fantasy and comedy into a delightful visual treat. Produced by Base Animation, a studio based in China, under the renowned Sony Pictures Animation, the film brings to our screens a magical adventure rooted in Chinese culture and folklore. The film boasts of an impressive cast, with voices lent by Jimmy Wong, John Cho, and Constance Wu, among others.

The film's protagonist is Din, an optimistic and resourceful but financially struggling college student, voiced by Jimmy Wong. A native of Shanghai, Din dreams of rekindling his friendship with his childhood friend, Lina, whom he hasn't seen for years. The paths of life have led them to vastly different socio-economic statuses, with Lina, voiced by Natasha Liu Bordizzo, living a life of luxury as the daughter of an ultra-wealthy real-estate mogul.

John Cho voices the character of Long, the titular "Wish Dragon", a vibrant, charismatic, and larger-than-life creature. Mirroring the role of the Genie in Aladdin, Long with his magical ability to grant three wishes, becomes an integral part of Din's journey. Long, though, is not merely a wish-granter but he also represents an insightful perspective on desire, fulfillment, and the human condition's complexities. His character brings both comedic relief and deep wisdom to the storyline, establishing a compelling dynamic with Din.

Overlaying the fantasy element is the backdrop of an economically divided Shanghai, which plays a significant role in the film. Director Chris Appelhans richly renders the complex social realities of modern-day China through both magical realism and grounded narratives. Despite its fantasy elements, "Wish Dragon" does not shy away from real-life issues such as socio-economic inequality and the sometimes harsh realities of the modern world.

At its heart, Wish Dragon is about the power and importance of friendship. It explores themes like dreams, aspirations, class differences, and the many facets of growing up. It ties its essential characters and core narrative together to underline the enduring value of relationships over material fulfillment.

One of the film's standout features is its vibrant and striking animation. The animation style brings together a distinct East Asian aesthetic with the feel of a classic Hollywood cartoon. The film uses bright colors and bold visuals to add layers to its storytelling. Shanghai is depicted beautifully with its grand skyscrapers and crowded markets, creating a dichotomy between the city's rich and poor areas.

Furthermore, Constance Wu plays Mrs. Song, Lina's overbearing yet loving mother who wants the best for her daughter, even if her desires often clash with Lina's own. The rest of the cast, including Ronnie Chieng and Bobby Lee, add flavor to the film with their humorous performance and memorable characters.

The movie also invests in character development. Din's character is fleshed out as more than just a wide-eyed dreamer. He comes across as hardworking, tenacious, and genuine, making him highly relatable. His friendship with Lina, explored through heart-touching flashbacks, brings an emotional depth to the film.

The film's humor is well-timed and is aligned seamlessly with the storyline, contributing both to character interaction and plot advancement. The pacing of the film is well-delivered, making the 98-minute run time an enjoyable ride, filled with laughter, surprises, and heartwarming moments.

In conclusion, from sparkling dragons to bustling marketplaces, Wish Dragon transports viewers into a vibrant and magical world where dreams are just a dragon's wish away. It’s a visual feast, beautifully incorporating elements of Chinese culture and folklore that is often underrepresented in mainstream animation film. Along with its humor and heart, the film also comes with an important reminder - true friendship is the most magical thing of all. Thus, Wish Dragon is a must-watch for all animation and fantasy enthusiasts.