Synopsis: Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Hector, the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.
Release Date: November 21, 2017 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Animation,
Film Review
Production
There’s one thing you can count on with (most) Pixar films: the need for a tissue at the end (sometimes in the middle, too). Coco has the great honor of falling in line with Up and The Good Dinosaur because it’s full of emotion and heart that even the coldest of souls would warm to by the time credits roll.
Coco tells the story of Miguel, a young Mexican boy who dreams of playing music for a living. But, his family does not allow music in the home since his great-great grandmother was jilted by a musician, left to raise her daughter alone. (As a quick side note and a special nod to screenwriters Adrian Molina and Matthew Aldrich: Thank you for making this single mother rise above and become a successful businesswoman, not a sob story. Now, back to Miguel.) Since music is what Miguel wants most in his life, he won’t give up and sets off on an unexpected journey to the Land of the Dead. It’s an amazing place that makes heaven seem like a consolation prize. Miguel’s adventure occurs on the Day of the Dead, which makes perfect sense given the core family theme of Coco. And yes, the film makes sure to bring light to the cultural significance of the day and how in the Mexican culture it is revered.
A great deal happens to Miguel on his journey and spoiling it here would be shameful. What won’t spoil the film is knowing that it’s incredibly entertaining, solidifies the importance of family and unconditional love, as well as forgiveness. In many ways, it will remind viewers of Disney films that are now considered Classics. Coco keeps things very simple, easy to comprehend and follow, and doesn’t require modernity to make it relevant. It’s timeless, and a film everyone should enjoy once, twice, as many times possible in their life — with tissues.
Animation
Bring on the color! It seems ridiculous to critique Pixar animators’ work at this point. Everyone knows they’re talented, to put it mildly. What is striking and memorable about Coco‘s animation is the abundance of color. Oranges, blues, greens, and more light up the entire film. It’s a delight for your eyes and makes everything come alive in a magnificent way. Pair it with the wonderful ballads and emotionally driven dialogue (with perfect eye response) and Coco is unforgettable.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Lee Unkrich
- Producer(s):
- Screenwriter(s): Adrian MolinaMatthew Aldrich
- Story:
- Cast: Anthony Gonzalez (voice of Miguel)Gael Garcia Bernal (voice of Hector)Benjamin Bratt (voice of Ernesto de la Cruz) Alanna Ubach (voice of Mama Imelda)Renee Victor (voice of Abuelita)
- Editor(s): Steve Bloom
- Cinematographer: Matt AspburyDanielle Feinberg
- Production Designer(s):
- Costume Designer:
- Casting Director(s):
- Music Score: Michael Giacchino
- Music Performed By:
- Country Of Origin: USA