Monster High: 13 Wishes

13 Wishes is arguably Monster High's best, and in my opinion one of the best movies to come from a toy franchise to date. 13 wishes explores themes of low-self esteem, sibling rivalry, & "wishful" thinking which I think any tween regardless of gender or background would find relatable. The plot is well developed and has clear continuity to the movies predecessors and Mattel's spin-off franchise "Ever After High". While the story is completely fictional, the story doesn't feel convoluted or frustrating to understand, and a masterfully sinister performance by Jonquill Goode makes characters like Whisp feel authentically frightening and seductive. Cameos of Monster High characters like Wydowna Spider & a musical performance by the MH universes Ariana Grande, "Catty Noir", make the movie even more enjoyable to die hard fans. In contrast, although comedic relief scenes like "Die Trying" featuring Monster High's male lineup, attempt to make the movie light hearted, the movie could do without these tedious scenes despite the necessary marketing for the doll lines male counterparts. Despite this minor caveat, the character designs are captivating, and the movies vivid and imaginative universe keep eyes glued to the screen, it's the only Monster High movie I've found myself watching numerous times, bringing me back to an electric & nostalgic feeling of child-like innocence.