Disney's new animated film "Wish," crafted in celebration of the studio's 100th anniversary, is set to make its theatrical debut in China on Nov. 24.

A Chinese movie poster of "Wish." [Image courtesy of The Walt Disney Studios]

The animated musical fantasy, directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, marries computer animation with the aesthetic of Disney's historical watercolor animation. Featuring the voices of Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk, Angelique Cabral, and Victor Garber, the narrative unfolds in the Kingdom of Rosas.

In this realm, 17-year-old Asha perceives a hidden danger associated with King Magnifico. She implores the stars for assistance, and Star, a celestial being with the power to grant wishes, heeds her call. Together, they must overcome the emerging evils in Rosas and battle for a brighter future - a future that holds more than their present circumstances, ensuring that the dreams of the people of Rosas can come to fruition. The film, inspired by Disney's centennial, embodies a recurrent theme across Disney movies: the magic of wishes coming to life.

Specifically, an original short film titled "Once Upon a Studio" will accompany the Chinese release. It showcases 543 characters from over 85 Disney films and shorts, evoking nostalgia across generations. Described as an "all-star ensemble" in the official synopsis, it reunites cherished characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios for a "joyful, entertaining, and emotional reunion," as they assemble for a grand photo commemorating Disney’s 100th anniversary.

Founded in 1923, Walt Disney Animation Studios serves as both the inception and cornerstone of Disney's evolution. Recognized as one of the world's most enduring and influential animation studios, it has not only crafted countless classics that have become cultural mainstays but has also persistently pushed the boundaries of animation, always innovating and trailblazing in the field. Iconic films from various eras such as "Snow White," "The Lion King," "Frozen," and "Zootopia" have consistently broken box office records in animated cinema and have cumulatively clinched 29 Academy Awards.

With 61 feature-length animations at its core, Walt Disney Animation Studios has become a cherished sanctuary and source of joy for fans worldwide. "Wish" is a significant offering for Disney's centennial celebration and, as the studio's press statement read, a gift to Disney fans across the globe.

Disney has been celebrating its 100th anniversary in China and the world with various activities, including exhibitions, online movie screenings, and merchandise. Additionally, the highly anticipated new themed land based on "Zootopia," the first of its kind worldwide, will open at Shanghai Disneyland on Dec. 20. Meanwhile, the eagerly awaited "World of Frozen," the world's first "Frozen"-themed land, will open its doors to visitors at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Nov. 20.

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