Pixar has a reputation for creating great animated films and “Coco” is no exception. It has received massive critical claim, joining its place alongside other recent additions like “Ratatouille,” “Inside Out” or “Up.” Now if only Pixar can keep the magic going for “Incredibles 2” and “Toy Story 4.”
The film follows Miguel, a young boy who longs to be a musician, despite his family’s hatred of music. After an accident, during the Day of the Dead celebration, he becomes stuck in the actual Land of the Dead, the realm where everyone goes when they die. There the Dead live in a giant city, filled with its sections and rules. Now Miguel must find his way back to the Land of the Living, all the while dealing with his family, both past and present.
I’ll begin by saying “Coco” is amazing. The animation is beautiful, and I mean that. It can almost be breathtaking at times. I don’t know much about animation, but the “Coco” artists did an amazing job. The detail and use of color is really something to marvel. They designed the Land of the Dead as such a gorgeous and creative place. It looks like a wonderful spot to spend the afterlife.
The animation isn’t the only good thing about “Coco,” either. The story is good, the writing is good, the characters are good, I didn’t even become annoyed by the standard cute, animal sidekick.
I regret not seeing “Coco” in theaters because it’s one of the best movies to come out last year. Although, I’m not sure if I would’ve appreciated watching an almost half hour Olaf short. I think I would’ve just came to the screening late, like everyone online said they did.
Now, like all good Pixar films, there is plenty of emotional scenes in “Coco.” These are parts that either can make you really happy or really sad. There are moments that might make you feel a little teary-eyed. Granted, I didn’t cry, though my heart did ache at times.
You would think death would be a taboo topic in a kids’ movie. Death plays a big role in “Coco,” the setting is in the Land of the Dead after all. Surprisingly, the film handles this potentially dark subject matter in a very effective way, that is also child friendly. The film teaches that having loved ones who have passed on isn’t bad, which is a great message for children.
In truth, “Coco” is a good educational movie for younger audiences. To be honest, I didn’t know that much about the Day of the Dead before I watched this film. It does a great job of representing Mexican culture, or at least from my perception anyway. Either way, it’s a great way for kids to learn. Because unlike watching educational videos in class, “Coco” isn’t boring.
This is a great animated film, however, since I am a critic, I’m going to bring up some flaws. If you’re looking for a funny movie, this may not be it. While there’s comedy featured throughout, most of it is in the beginning. In classic Pixar fashion, they begin the story with a warm upbeat feeling, so they can catch you off guard with emotional drama later on. With that being said, the emotional scenes in “Coco” are very well done.
There is a few plot twists and I did see one of them coming. Still, it didn’t distract me from enjoying the film.
The villain of this movie is heartless. If you thought Scar from “The Lion King” was cold-blooded, prepare for someone who could give him a run for his money. I can’t go into more because it’s a spoiler, just know the villain is a terrible person.
Overall, I felt emotionally satisfied after watching “Coco.” It had great animation and a great message for children. The characters had meaningful story arcs, the world they created is wonderful and it’s one the best animated movies to come out in a while. I recommend seeing it. I won’t overhype it anymore because everyone else says it’s amazing too.
Who says kids movies are dumb? Kids movies can be just as good as regular films, if not better. If anything, good kids movies can show just how generic regular movies really are. “Coco” certainly does – it’s worth watching.