While ‘The Wishing Tree’ may be lauded for its good intentions, its execution leaves much to be desired. The performances by the child actors are often unconvincing, and even veteran actors deliver performances that feel forced. The film, an eco-friendly parable, struggles with subtlety, a flaw that highlights a larger issue with children’s films in the country. These films often either condescend to their young audience or try too hard to mimic them. ‘The Wishing Tree’ attempts to address environmental awareness but falters due to clumsy writing and exaggerated acting. However, the film’s good intentions are apparent, and it deserves recognition. Shabana Azmi’s portrayal of an eco-spirit is noteworthy, and the film’s cinematography showcases a love for nature. Despite its shortcomings, ‘The Wishing Tree’ attempts to tackle important themes. The film’s plot revolves around four children from different religious backgrounds, each with a personal challenge to overcome.
Shabana Azmi recently discussed the film, noting the scarcity of films for and about children. She acknowledged her cameo and the importance of supporting films that aim to fill this void.