Wish Dragon

Movie Details:

Cast & Characters:

• Jimmy Wong as Din Song, a working-class college student who dreams to reunite with his childhood friend Li Na
  • Ian Chen as young Din
• John Cho as Long, a cynical but all-powerful dragon capable of granting wishes
  • Max Charles as young Long
• Constance Wu as Mrs. Song, Din’s strict but loving mother
• Natasha Liu Bordizzo as Li Na Wang, Din’s childhood friend, who moved with her father years ago from the neighborhood where she lived and now lives a lavish life
  • Alyssa Abiera as young Li Na
• Jimmy O. Yang as Short Goon, one of Pockets’ goons; and a security guard
• Aaron Yoo as Pockets, a henchman hired by Wang to retrieve the teapot that Din has and the main antagonist
• Will Yun Lee as Mr. Wang, Li Na’s absent but caring father, whose company business is failing
• Ronny Chieng as Pipa God, the guardian of the gate to the Spirit world

Storyline:

Din, is a poor college student who reunites with his childhood friend Lina after discovering a magical dragon named Long who can grant wishes. As Din uses his wishes to reconnect with Lina, he learns that true happiness isn’t found in wealth but in meaningful relationships.

About Movie:

Wish Dragon is a animated fantasy comedy film written and directed by Chris Appelhans in his feature directorial debut. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation and Tencent Pictures, the film features a voice cast that includes Jimmy Wong, John Cho, Constance Wu, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Jimmy O. Yang, Aaron Yoo, Will Yun Lee, and Ronny Chieng. Jackie Chan produced the film and voiced the character of Long in the Mandarin version.

The story follows Din Song, a college student living in Shanghai who longs to reconnect with his childhood friend Li Na, who moved away years ago. One day, Din discovers a magical teapot that houses a wish-granting dragon named Long. Long informs Din that he can grant him three wishes. As Din navigates his wishes and the challenges that arise from them, he faces obstacles from Li Na’s wealthy father, Mr. Wang, who wants to retrieve the teapot for his own purposes.

Wish Dragon premiered theatrically in China on January 15, 2021, and was released internationally on Netflix on June 11, 2021. The film received generally positive reviews for its animation style and engaging story, although it had a modest box office performance, grossing approximately $21 million worldwide against a budget of around $25 million.

The film explores themes of friendship, aspiration, and the contrast between wealth and simplicity within the context of modern Chinese society. Critics noted its charming characters and vibrant depiction of Shanghai as key strengths of the film.

Overall, Wish Dragon offers a fresh take on the classic “wish-granting” narrative while providing commentary on personal values and relationships. Its blend of humor and heartfelt moments makes it an enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages.

Budget & Box Office Collection: