Why Does When You Wish Upon a Star End a Disney Movie?

Why Does 'When You Wish Upon a Star' End a Disney Movie?

Many Disney enthusiasts may be familiar with the iconic song, 'When You Wish Upon a Star,' but not everyone knows why or when this classic melody ends a Disney movie. In this article, we will explore the intriguing reasons behind this unique practice and provide a thorough analysis. Additionally, we will delve into the history of the song and its significance in the world of animation, making this article not just informative but also rich in SEO value.

The Uniqueness of 'When You Wish Upon a Star'

Despite being a beloved tune, 'When You Wish Upon a Star' is far from common in the conclusion of Disney movies. This song has a unique charm and has often left viewers pondering the reason behind its exclusive use at the end of certain films. While it is true that the song is featured in several classic Disney movies, notably 'Pinocchio' and 'Fantasia,' its use as a prelude to the closing credits is relatively rare. By understanding the history and significance of this song, we can appreciate its importance in the world of Disney storytelling.

The Origins of 'When You Wish Upon a Star'

When you wish upon a star, makes dreams come true.“ - When You Wish Upon a Star

To truly understand why 'When You Wish Upon a Star' ends a Disney movie, it is necessary to explore its history. The song was first introduced in the 1940 film, 'Pinocchio,' where it serves as a central theme throughout the movie. The lyrics reflect the film's moral message of the importance of believing in oneself and the power of dreams. The song was written by Oliver Wallace and Ned Washington and was arranged by Leaco Stearns. This has significant implications as it shows how the song is deeply intertwined with the story of 'Pinocchio.'

Why the Song is Used at the End of Specific Movies

One of the main reasons why 'When You Wish Upon a Star' ends a Disney movie is to tie the film's themes to its concluding message. In 'Pinocchio,' the song is used to represent the final wish Pinocchio made to become a real boy. After saying goodbye to Geppetto, he utters the iconic line, "When I wished upon a star… My wish will come true." At the end of the movie, this sentiment is encapsulated through the song's lyrics, reinforcing the theme of the movie. This is why the song is used only in 'Pinocchio' and not in other Disney films.

The Exceptions and Criticism

Despite its unique use, 'When You Wish Upon a Star' has been subject to some criticism. Some argue that it can be intrusive or unnecessary, as it may detract from the natural flow of the film. However, this approach is not a blanket rule, and its exclusive use in 'Pinocchio' demonstrates the artistic and thematic choices made by Disney. Interestingly, in 1940, the song was not included in the final version of 'Pinocchio,' as it was seen as too sentimental. Only later, after feedback from audiences, did the song become an integral part of the film, reflecting the evolution of Disney's storytelling technique over time.

Conclusion

Despite its infrequent use, 'When You Wish Upon a Star' remains a beloved and iconic song in the world of Disney. Its unique placement at the end of certain movies adds an extra layer of meaning and emotion to the storytelling process. By exploring its origins and analysis, we can better appreciate the artistic choices behind its exclusive use in 'Pinocchio' and its role in the broader narrative of the film. So, the next time you hear those familiar lyrics, take a moment to reflect on the significance of this beloved song and its place in Disney history.