Movie Review: Coco (2017)
Overview: “Coco” is a 2017 animated fantasy film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-directed by Adrian Molina, “Coco” tells the story of Miguel, a young boy with a deep love for music, who embarks on an extraordinary journey to the Land of the Dead to uncover the truth about his family history.
Plot Summary: The film is set in Santa Cecilia, Mexico, where Miguel dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s longstanding ban on music. On Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Miguel accidentally finds himself in the Land of the Dead. There, he meets his deceased relatives and embarks on a quest to find his great-great-grandfather, a legendary singer, to gain his family’s blessing to pursue music. The journey reveals surprising family secrets and highlights the importance of family, heritage, and forgiveness.
Visuals and Animation: “Coco” is widely praised for its stunning visuals and animation. The vibrant depiction of the Land of the Dead, with its colorful and intricate designs, showcases Pixar’s technological prowess and creativity. The film’s attention to cultural details and authenticity in representing Mexican traditions and customs is notable and adds depth to the storytelling.
Music and Soundtrack: Music plays a central role in “Coco,” with an original score by Michael Giacchino and songs written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. The song “Remember Me” (Recuerdame) is particularly significant and serves as the emotional core of the film. The soundtrack blends traditional Mexican music with contemporary influences, enhancing the film’s cultural richness.
Themes: “Coco” explores themes of family, memory, and identity. It emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring one’s ancestors and the powerful bonds that connect generations. The film also addresses the conflict between personal aspirations and familial expectations, ultimately promoting the idea that understanding and reconciliation are key to resolving such conflicts.
Critical Reception: “Coco” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. It was praised for its heartfelt storytelling, cultural authenticity, and emotional depth. The film won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for “Remember Me.”
- Rotten Tomatoes: “Coco’s rich visual pleasures are matched by a thoughtful narrative that takes a family-friendly approach to questions of culture, family, life, and death.”
- Metacritic: “Coco boasts a 81/100, indicating universal acclaim.”
Conclusion: “Coco” stands out as one of Pixar’s most emotionally resonant and culturally significant films. Its beautiful animation, compelling music, and heartfelt story make it a memorable and impactful viewing experience for audiences of all ages.
