The allure of having one's deepest desires granted is a timeless theme in cinema. This collection of 10 films explores the enchanting world of wish-fulfilment, where characters' dreams become reality, often with unexpected consequences. From whimsical tales to heartfelt stories, these films provide a magical escape, reminding us of the power of imagination and the importance of being careful what we wish for. Whether you're in the mood for a light-hearted adventure or a poignant reflection on life's desires, this curated list offers something for everyone.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Description: Dorothy's wish to go "somewhere over the rainbow" leads her on an unforgettable journey, teaching her the value of home and the power of friendship.
Fact: Judy Garland's iconic ruby slippers were originally silver in L. Frank Baum's book, but changed to ruby for the film to take advantage of Technicolor.
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Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)
Description: This film tells the story of an apprentice witch who uses magic to help win World War II, with a magical bed that can travel anywhere. It's a classic tale of wish-fulfilment through magic, showcasing the power of belief and imagination.
Fact: The film was originally planned as a sequel to "Mary Poppins" but evolved into its own unique story. The animated sequence was one of the last to be completed by Disney's Nine Old Men.
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Big (1988)
Description: A young boy's wish to be 'big' leads to a series of comedic and poignant adventures as he navigates adulthood in a child's mind. This film captures the essence of wish-fulfilment with a twist of reality.
Fact: The famous FAO Schwarz piano scene was improvised by Tom Hanks.
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Aladdin (1992)
Description: A street urchin finds a magic lamp and uses the genie's wishes to win the heart of a princess, embodying the ultimate wish-fulfilment fantasy.
Fact: Robin Williams improvised much of his dialogue as the Genie, making the character uniquely memorable.
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The Princess Diaries (2001)
Description: An ordinary high school girl discovers she's the princess of a small European country, fulfilling her dreams of royalty. The film explores themes of identity and self-discovery through the lens of wish-fulfilment.
Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays the queen, was originally offered the role of the grandmother in "The Devil Wears Prada" but chose this role instead.
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Bruce Almighty (2003)
Description: A man is given God's powers for a week, allowing him to fulfill any wish, but he soon learns the complexities of divine responsibility.
Fact: Jim Carrey's character was originally written for Tom Hanks, but Carrey's comedic style added a unique flavor to the film.
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13 Going on 30 (2004)
Description: A teenage girl's wish to skip the awkward years and become an adult overnight leads to a humorous and touching exploration of what it means to grow up.
Fact: Jennifer Garner had to learn to dance for the film, including the iconic "Thriller" dance scene.
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The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: Walter Mitty's daydreams of adventure become reality as he embarks on a quest to find a missing photo, fulfilling his deepest desires for excitement and purpose.
Fact: The film was shot in Iceland, Greenland, and New York, showcasing stunning landscapes that reflect Walter's inner journey.
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The Monkey's Paw (2013)
Description: A chilling tale of a magical artifact that grants three wishes, with dire consequences, exploring the darker side of wish-fulfilment.
Fact: The story is based on W.W. Jacobs' classic horror short story, emphasizing the theme of unintended consequences.
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The Change-Up (2011)
Description: Two friends magically swap bodies after urinating in a magical fountain, leading to a comedic exploration of each other's lives and desires.
Fact: The film was inspired by the classic body-swap comedy "Freaky Friday."
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