Following Strange World, Disney’s new animated feature – Wish – will not be getting a 4K disc release in the UK: just DVD and Blu-ray.
Released in a blaze of publicity at the end of last year was Disney’s latest animated feature, Wish. This one carried the added responsibility of celebrating 100 years of Disney, and while the film’s solid enough, I’d argue it was weighed down by the extra centenary baggage.
Still, it’s entertaining, and looks and sounds superb, which makes it prime fodder for a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray physical media release. However, its muted box office performance means that Disney has opted to limit its physical release to DVD and Blu-ray instead.
This was the same fate that befell Disney’s preceding animated feature, the terrific-looking Strange World. That didn’t ignite the box office, either, and had its home media release slightly restricted.
In the case of Disney’s Wish, what we’re getting is a DVD, a Blu-ray, and a Blu-ray Steelbook option. Furthermore, to Disney’s credit, an extensive selection of extra features as well.
As per the now-received official announcement, the Blu-ray only will come with these:
• Sing Along With The Movie
Sing along with your favourite songs while watching the movie with on-screen lyrics.
• Featurette: Once Upon A Studio
Beloved characters from Disney Animation’s 100 years come together for an unforgettable reunion.
• Featurette: Wish D-Classified
Wish is filled with references and nods to other Disney films from the studio’s 100-year legacy. From hidden Mickeys to more subtle tributes, you may have caught many of them, but check out this “D-Classified” piece for ones you may have missed.
• 100 Years In The Making – The Inside story on the making of Wish • What Makes Disney, Disney
Learn what makes a Disney film and its characters so distinct, memorable and beloved. Discover how Asha and Wish are quintessentially Disney — from the extraordinary challenges Asha must overcome, to the magical, Kingdom of Rosa
• The Wish Equation
What is a wish? Join the filmmakers for a surprising conversation as they break down the “Wish Equation,” discuss the “rules of magic,” and describe the role music plays in Disney films. Then hear Julia Michaels’ own original demo of “This Wish.”
• Looking Backward To Go Forward
Walk the aisles of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library as the filmmakers “draw” inspiration from 100 years of animation. Learn about the “Pinocchio test,” and how Wish’s design blends new technology with classic techniques.
• Where Dreams And Reality Collide
Discover the times and places that were the inspiration for Rosas and helped build the world of this original fairy tale.
• Asha Means Wish
Learn all about Asha, from her inspired design to her boundless determination and generosity. Uncover the subtle symbolism in her jewellery, and dive into her dancing skills. See how she’s imperfectly perfect and what makes her a memorable Disney hero.
• The Return Of The Disney Villain
You’ll love to hate King Magnifico when you uncover his secrets. Find out what makes him the classic Disney villain — and why he doesn’t wear a crown.
• Star Is Born
Uncover early concept drawings to see how Star evolved into Asha’s lovable wish facilitator. Learn about Star’s sparkles, and why Star can communicate with Asha and the other characters.
• Those Who Stand Beside Me
Learn more about Asha’s closest allies, Dahlia and Valentino. Find out which of Snow White’s seven companions served as inspiration for Dahlia, and how Valentino breaks one of the rules of Disney animals.
• When Wishes Come True
Get to know the kids inside the filmmakers as the creators of Wish reflect on what Disney movies meant to them growing up, and what it’s like being part of the Disney legacy today.
• Featurette: Deleted Song “A Wish Worth Making”
Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn introduce this poignant song sung by Saba Sabino (voiced by Victor Garber) expressing what it’s like to be reunited with your one true wish.
• Deleted Scenes – Check out some scenes that didn’t make the Final Cut.
That strikes me as a fine line-up, and those supplements will be appearing on the Blu-ray edition. The DVD doesn’t have any listed at all. We did do a long interview here if you’re looking to fill the gap though.
Disney’s Wish heads to DVD and Blu-ray in the UK on March 25th 2024. We’re not sure whether a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray version is going to be available anywhere else in the world as an import option, but that should become clearer in the next couple of weeks.
In the meantime, you can find more on the UK release of Wish, and order a copy, right here.
