A Simple Wish (1997) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Most of the story takes place in New York City's Central Park, with the fairy godmother headquarters located there. Additional scenes occur on Broadway, where Oliver auditions, and in Nebraska, representing a more rural setting.

• central park
• new york
• broadway
• settings
• locations

The movie is set in a contemporary era, specifically the early 2000s. This modern setting allows the fantasy elements like fairy godmothers and magic to contrast with everyday New York City life.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• 1990s
• early 2000s

Magic is the central force driving the plot. Murray uses his wand to grant wishes, but when it breaks, chaos ensues with comedic consequences like turning people into frogs. The film explores how magic can both help and hinder, emphasizing that supernatural powers come with responsibilities.

• magic
• wand
• fairy godmother
• spells
• supernatural

Family is a core theme, with Oliver's Broadway ambitions motivated by wanting to provide for his children. The bond between siblings Anabel and Charlie is highlighted, and fairy godmothers represent a protective, nurturing force. The story ultimately celebrates love, sacrifice, and family support.

• family
• love
• siblings
• parents
• children

Murray is a male fairy godmother, a rarity in a traditionally female-dominated profession. Played by Martin Short, he faces disdain from others in the fairy community but remains determined and kind-hearted as he tries to help Anabel's family achieve their wishes.

• murray
• martin short
• fairy godmother
• male fairy godmother

Anabel is an 8-year-old girl who wishes for her father Oliver to get the lead in a Broadway musical. She is hopeful, brave, and resourceful, often taking initiative to help her family. Her innocent belief in magic drives much of the film's emotional core.

• anabel
• child
• girl
• protagonist
• young girl

Oliver Greening is a carriage driver in Central Park who dreams of Broadway stardom. He is ambitious, kind, and resilient in the face of setbacks. His journey represents the pursuit of artistic dreams while maintaining loyalty to his family.

• oliver
• broadway
• carriage driver
• father
• dreams
• aspirations

Claudia is an evil witch who was banished from the fairy godmother association for selfish use of magic. She is cunning, manipulative, and seeks to regain her full power through curses and schemes. Her greedy abuse of magic contrasts with Murray's selfless approach.

• claudia
• witch
• villain
• antagonist
• evil

Murray stands out because he is one of the few male fairy godmothers in existence. The fairy godmother profession is traditionally female, and Murray faces discrimination and disdain from others in the magical community because of his gender.

• male fairy godmother
• gender
• discrimination
• unique
• murray

The fairy godmother convention is the governing body of fairy godmothers that Murray relies on for magical support. It comes under siege during the movie by the witches Claudia and Boots, forcing Murray to scramble for solutions without his usual resources.

• fairy godmother convention
• magic community
• witches
• organization