Coco Movie Review By Monica Solano

Disney Pixar delivers once again with its new animated film Coco, a deeply affectionate approach about family, culture, life, and death.

Living in a household where music is forbidden, a young boy, Miguel, struggles to balance his love for music and family. Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, Miguel dreams of becoming a world-renowned musician and to follow in the footsteps of his idol Ernesto de la Cruz.

On the night of Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the young boy finds himself in the colorful afterlife known as the Land of the Dead, where he meets his deceased relatives and a charming trickster named Hector all while trying to get back home.

After making a deal with Hector to place his photo on the family altar in order for him to cross over to the other side and meet his idol, the two embark on an extraordinary journey while unlocking the real story behind the young boy’s family history.  

Coming from a personal point of view, not only is Coco an accurate portrayal of Mexican culture but it is beautifully done both visually and narratively.

The major theme for the film centers on “familia” and the importance of honoring and remembering loved ones. Although this theme is one that has woven its way through many films, especially in Disney, there is something new about Coco that hits a deeper thread.

Because of its sincere and emotional story representing love for those who have come and gone, Coco will definitely pull at the heartstrings. So be sure to have some tissues handy.

Thoroughly enchanting and filled with visual and emotional beauty, Coco is well worth the watch and will have audience members captivated from beginning to end.

Watching the friendship between Miguel and Hector grow and the challenges they endure in order to reach their goal was very enjoyable well executed. Audience members will instantly fall in love with these two characters (just as I did).

Not only is the animation in this film top notch, but the amount of detail put into creating it really pays off. The vibrant colors and lively world-building give a feel of one big animated fiesta while its backgrounds showcase a warm and inviting atmosphere.

From Mariachi to Corrido’s (ballads), the music in this film is also something that will not be overlooked. Each song brings a rich and heartwarming sensation from lively and upbeat trumpets to soft Spanish guitars that perfectly capture the feel of Mexico.

Keep in mind, however, a short titled Olaf’s Frozen Adventure about 21 minutes long will play before the actual movie begins.  The short itself was fine and will have audience members excited for the Christmas season, but it did drag on a bit too long.

Thoroughly enchanting and filled with visual and emotional beauty, Coco is well worth the watch and will have audience members captivated from beginning to end. Definitely one of Pixar’s best.

Overall Score: 9.5 /10