Is A Simple Wish Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, A Simple Wish is likely a skip if you enjoy Adventure movies.
It features a runtime of 86 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
A Simple Wish Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1997, A Simple Wish emerges as a significant entry in the Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Murray is a male fairy godmother, and he is trying to help 8-year-old Anabel to fulfil her "simple wish" - that her father Oliver, who is a cab driver, would win the leading role in a Broadway musical. Unlike standard genre fare, A Simple Wish attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Adventure is often anchored by its ensemble, and A Simple Wish features a noteworthy lineup led by Martin Short . Supported by the likes of Kathleen Turner and Mara Wilson , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of A Simple Wish (1997) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
A Simple Wish Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: A Simple Wish is a Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
A Simple Wish Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: A Simple Wish attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to adventure resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the adventure themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of A Simple Wish reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch A Simple Wish?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Adventure films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
A Simple Wish Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $28.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $8.3M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
A Simple Wish Budget
The estimated production budget for A Simple Wish is $28.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of A Simple Wish
- Martin Short – Murray
- Kathleen Turner – Claudia
- Mara Wilson – Anabel Greening
- Robert Pastorelli – Oliver Greening
- Deborah Odell – Jeri
Top Highlights
Martin ShortMurray
Kathleen TurnerClaudia
Mara WilsonAnabel Greening
Robert PastorelliOliver Greening
Deborah OdellJeri
Francis CapraCharlie Greening
Ruby DeeHortence
Amanda PlummerBoots
Teri GarrRena
Jonathan HadaryLord Richard
Where to Watch A Simple Wish Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
A Simple Wish is rated PG. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, A Simple Wish stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1997 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Simple Wish movie hit or flop?
A Simple Wish has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is A Simple Wish worth watching?
A Simple Wish is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Adventure, Comedy, Family movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch A Simple Wish online?
A Simple Wish may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How A Simple Wish Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for A Simple Wish
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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