Coco

"Coco" tells the story of Miguel, a 12-year-old boy from a family of shoemakers in Mexico who dreams of becoming a musician, just like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. However, his family has a mysterious, generations-old ban on music. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself on an extraordinary journey to the Land of the Dead on the eve of Día de Muertos.

In this stunningly colorful afterlife, Miguel befriends a charming trickster named Héctor. Together, they embark on an adventure to uncover the real story behind Miguel's family history and the reason for the music ban. Along the way, he meets his deceased ancestors and discovers secrets that will change his family's fate and his own understanding of his identity forever.

The core meaning of "Coco" revolves around the profound importance of family, memory, and remembrance. It posits that our identities are deeply shaped by our ancestors and the stories we tell about them. The film beautifully illustrates the Mexican cultural belief that our loved ones who have passed away are not truly gone as long as they are remembered by the living. It is not just about following one's dreams, but about understanding that our passions and our family are intertwined, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from balancing personal ambition with familial love and heritage.

While overwhelmingly praised, some critical interpretations of "Coco" have explored underlying themes of cultural appropriation and the commercialization of tradition. Despite Pixar's extensive efforts to be respectful, some critics argue that the very act of a massive American corporation packaging and selling a sacred, indigenous-rooted tradition is inherently problematic. The initial attempt to trademark "Día de los Muertos" is often cited as evidence of a corporate mindset that can clash with cultural preservation.

Another interpretation focuses on the film's narrative structure. Some viewers have pointed out that the story follows a familiar Disney/Pixar formula of a protagonist rebelling against their family to follow a dream, which is then neatly resolved. A more critical reading might question whether this individualistic, dream-following narrative, while universally appealing, subtly imposes a Western value system onto a story about a culture that often prioritizes community and family (familismo) over individual ambition. From this perspective, Miguel's ultimate reconciliation could be seen as a convenient way to merge two different cultural value systems without deeply challenging the primacy of the individual's quest for self-fulfillment.

"Coco" was a landmark film for its authentic and respectful representation of Mexican culture, specifically the traditions of Día de Muertos. Before its release, there was apprehension, particularly after a controversial attempt by Disney to trademark the holiday's name. However, the final film was widely praised by critics and audiences alike for its extensive research and collaboration with cultural consultants, which resulted in a heartfelt "love letter to Mexico." The film became a massive box office success, grossing over $814 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time in Mexico.

Its influence extended beyond the box office; it fostered a greater global understanding and appreciation for Día de Muertos, distinguishing it from Halloween. The movie's success demonstrated the commercial and critical viability of stories centered on specific cultures when told with care and authenticity. It won two Academy Awards, for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for "Remember Me," solidifying its place as a modern classic in animation. The film's emotional resonance and positive portrayal of family and heritage have made it a beloved staple, particularly within the Latino community, and a benchmark for cultural representation in mainstream cinema.

Audience reception for "Coco" was overwhelmingly positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 97% approval rating from critics and a 94% from audiences, indicating widespread acclaim. Viewers universally praised the film's stunning and vibrant animation, its emotional depth, and its heartfelt story. Many viewers, particularly those of Mexican heritage, celebrated the film for its respectful and accurate portrayal of their culture and the Día de Muertos holiday. The final scene, where Miguel sings "Remember Me" to Mamá Coco, is frequently cited as one of the most powerful and tear-jerking moments in Pixar's history. Criticisms were minor and infrequent, though some found the first act to be a bit slow or the plot twist predictable. Overall, audiences considered it a return to form for Pixar, a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant masterpiece that celebrates family, culture, and memory.