Review: Coco (2017)
Introduction
Pixar’s Coco (2017) is a beautifully crafted animated film that celebrates Mexican culture, family, and the power of music. Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-directed by Adrian Molina, Coco tells the heartfelt story of a young boy named Miguel who embarks on an extraordinary journey to the Land of the Dead. Featuring stunning visuals, an emotionally compelling narrative, and a culturally rich soundtrack, Coco is one of Pixar’s most ambitious and deeply moving films to date. The film not only explores themes of remembrance, family heritage, and identity but also introduces audiences worldwide to the traditions of Día de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) in a respectful and visually captivating way.
Plot Summary
The story follows Miguel Rivera, a 12-year-old boy from Santa Cecilia, Mexico, who dreams of becoming a musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. However, his family has banned music for generations, believing it to be a curse ever since Miguel’s great-great-grandfather abandoned the family to pursue a music career.
Determined to prove himself as a musician, Miguel stumbles upon a connection to Ernesto de la Cruz, believing him to be his long-lost relative. On the night of Día de los Muertos, Miguel steals Ernesto’s guitar from his mausoleum, unknowingly triggering a supernatural event that transports him to the Land of the Dead. There, he meets his deceased relatives and a charming trickster named Héctor, who offers to help him return to the living world—under one condition: Miguel must take his family’s blessing, which means giving up music forever.
As Miguel searches for Ernesto, he unravels a long-buried family secret, leading to an emotional climax that redefines his understanding of family, legacy, and what it truly means to follow one’s dreams.
Performances and Characters
Miguel (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez) – As the heart and soul of the film, Miguel is a relatable protagonist full of passion and determination. Gonzalez’s voice acting brings youthful energy and sincerity to the character, making Miguel’s journey both inspiring and deeply emotional.
Héctor (voiced by Gael García Bernal) – Héctor is one of the film’s most complex and endearing characters. Initially introduced as a comedic trickster, his true significance in the story unfolds in a heartbreaking yet beautiful way. Bernal’s voice performance adds charm, humor, and emotional depth to the role.
Ernesto de la Cruz (voiced by Benjamin Bratt) – As Miguel’s supposed idol, Ernesto is presented as a legendary musician whose charisma masks a much darker side. Bratt’s voice work perfectly captures both the grandeur and deceitfulness of the character.
Mamá Imelda (voiced by Alanna Ubach) – The matriarch of the Rivera family, Mamá Imelda is both stern and loving, embodying the strength and resilience that has kept her family together for generations. Her character plays a crucial role in Miguel’s journey.
Dante and Pepita – Dante, Miguel’s loyal street dog, provides comic relief while serving as a spirit guide (alebrije). Pepita, a giant mythical jaguar-like creature, is a visually stunning protector of the Rivera ancestors.
The film’s supporting cast, including Miguel’s extended family members, add warmth and depth to the story, reinforcing its central theme of family unity.
Cinematic Qualities
Animation and Visuals
Coco is visually breathtaking, showcasing some of Pixar’s most stunning animation work. The Land of the Dead is a vibrant and mesmerizing world, filled with glowing marigold bridges, intricate cityscapes, and dazzling lights. Every frame is meticulously designed, with special attention to cultural authenticity.
The character animation is equally impressive, capturing the expressiveness and warmth of the Rivera family while also making the skeletal characters of the Land of the Dead feel full of life. The alebrijes, colorful spirit animals inspired by Mexican folk art, add an extra layer of fantasy to the film’s already rich visual style.
Music and Soundtrack
Music plays a central role in Coco, not only as a narrative device but also as an emotional bridge between generations. The film’s Oscar-winning song, “Remember Me”, is a poignant melody that carries deep emotional weight. The way it is used in different contexts throughout the film—from a grand, triumphant performance to an intimate lullaby—demonstrates its storytelling power.
The film’s score, composed by Michael Giacchino, beautifully blends traditional Mexican instrumentation with Pixar’s signature orchestral sound, enhancing the film’s themes of heritage and remembrance. Songs like “Un Poco Loco” and “The World Es Mi Familia” add an authentic and joyous energy to the film’s musical landscape.
Themes and Analysis
Family and Ancestry
At its core, Coco is a story about family and the importance of remembering one’s ancestors. The Rivera family’s ban on music initially creates a conflict, but as Miguel discovers the truth about his great-great-grandfather, he learns that family is about understanding, forgiveness, and love. The film beautifully illustrates the Mexican tradition of honoring the dead, reinforcing the idea that those we love never truly leave us as long as we remember them.
The Power of Music
Music in Coco is portrayed as a powerful force of connection—between past and present, between dreams and duty, between the living and the dead. While Miguel initially sees music as an escape from his family’s restrictions, he later realizes that music can also be a way to unite and heal.
Legacy and Remembrance
The film deeply explores how people are remembered after they are gone. The idea that the dead only truly disappear when they are forgotten is a heartbreaking yet beautiful concept, adding layers of emotional depth to the story. This theme resonates universally, reminding audiences to cherish their loved ones and keep their memories alive.
Criticism and Weaknesses
While Coco is widely praised, there are a few minor criticisms:
Predictable Plot Twists – Some viewers found the revelation about Ernesto de la Cruz predictable, especially given Pixar’s past formula of deceptive villains. However, the emotional impact of the twist still remains strong.
Simplified Conflict – Miguel’s conflict with his family over music is resolved rather quickly in the final act, which some audiences felt could have been explored in more depth.
Cultural Specificity – While Coco is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of Mexican traditions, some non-Mexican viewers might find certain cultural aspects less accessible. However, the film does a commendable job of making the story universally relatable.
Final Thoughts
Coco is a masterpiece of animation, storytelling, and cultural representation. With its stunning visuals, unforgettable music, and deeply emotional themes, the film delivers a touching and powerful story about family, legacy, and the enduring power of memory.
Pixar’s commitment to honoring Mexican culture shines through in every aspect of the film, from its vibrant depiction of Día de los Muertos to its heartfelt message about the bonds between generations. While it may follow a somewhat familiar story structure, Coco stands out as one of Pixar’s most emotionally resonant and visually spectacular films.
Rating: 4.5/5
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