Coco - A Movie Review

If we get to the concert on time maybe they play the song ‘Remember Me’.

Coco is a 2017 animated Pixar film about a young boy who longs to become a singer. Going against his family’s wishes, Miguel spends a whole night in the Land of the Dead. On a mission to seek out his great-great-grandfather, he learns secrets about the past.

Pixar has created impressive stories. Coco goes above and beyond, bestowing an engaging tale about the importance of music. It is one of my favorite films that creatively explores the spiritual world. Coco has several meaningful lessons, but the love from family is eternal.

Miguel’s enthusiasm is a trait to admire. He struggles to cope with his family’s insistence on eliminating music because of a grudge in his family. Unaware that he is following along a similar pathway, the young boy goes through a very eye-opening journey spending a night in the spiritual world. His growth is compelling and I enjoyed his reactions.

Every character in Coco holds a grudge that they’re trying to understand. My favorite character was Hector. His interactions that he shares with Miguel are fun, especially when they venture through the spiritual world.

Before you think wrongly about someone based on appearance and background, you have to get to know them. Ernesto de la Cruz demonstrates that you always have to be careful of who you come in contact with, even if they have made history in the world.

That goes the same for stories. Mama Imelda and Abuelita hold onto resentment, carrying the unneeded tension that they could have easily repaired.

For those who have family members with Alzheimer’s/dementia, Coco is a meaningful representation. It is tough, but you can still remind your family of fond memories. Dementia is never something to fear, but it creates a new understanding.

Voices behind the characters were talented, even singing. Anthony Gonzalez, Gael Garcia Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renee Victor, Jaime Camil, Alfonso Arau, Herbert Siguenza, Ana Ofelia Murguia connected to their characters unfolding genuine personalities. Voice acting is a very different world that challenges one to take their voice to a whole different level.

Designs for characters are out of this world. Pixar never misses a beat. The skeleton designs were unique. Movement was a unique factor that animators had to pay attention to. You have to love Pixar for what they do to bring genuity to the big screen.

Speaking of which, Coco is a splendid work of art. Pixar outdid themselves spending six years creating this film. That moment Miguel first enters the spirit world, I was speechless. Pixar created a unique world with a surprise around each corner. The Land of the Dead was inspired by the city of Guanajuato.

The story for Coco is breathtaking. It’s genuine. I remember my eyes filling with tears the first time I saw it in theaters. I don’t know a lot about Mexican tradition, but the story beautifully encases traditions and Mexican culture.

Music holds a special meaning. The song ‘Remember Me’ is a beautiful original piece. Music holds a special meaning for everyone. Singing is one of my favorite past times. Because of music, it helps communities come together

Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina went above and beyond to bring this story to life. Coco encourages audiences to discover their passions. But never forget family. No matter what, family will always keep us together.

If you have not seen Coco, I suggest that you do so immediately. Family, tradition, and passion are three themes that invoke a special meaning in this film that will touch all audiences.