"The celebration of a lifetime."
Coco - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
Remember me, though I have to say goodbye. Remember me, don't let it make you cry.
— Héctor (sung by Ernesto de la Cruz)
Context:
The song appears throughout the film, first as Ernesto's biggest hit. The crucial moment is when Miguel sings it to an elderly Mamá Coco, jogging her memory of her father and saving Héctor from being forgotten forever.
Meaning:
This lyric is the emotional core of the film. Initially presented as a romantic ballad by Ernesto, its true meaning is revealed as a tender lullaby written by a loving father, Héctor, for his daughter, Coco. It encapsulates the film's central theme of remembrance across distance and even death.
Seize your moment.
— Ernesto de la Cruz
Context:
Miguel repeats this mantra throughout the first half of the film. Ernesto later says to Miguel, "I am the one who is willing to do what it takes to seize my moment, whatever it takes," revealing its darker interpretation just before trying to dispose of him.
Meaning:
This is Ernesto's famous catchphrase, which inspires Miguel to pursue his dreams. It initially represents ambition and self-belief. However, its meaning is twisted when it's revealed Ernesto used this philosophy to justify murdering Héctor and stealing his songs, showing how a noble idea can be corrupted by selfish ambition.
Nothing is more important than family.
— Miguel Rivera
Context:
Miguel says this near the end of the film, showing his newfound understanding and reconciling with his family after returning from the Land of the Dead. It contrasts with his earlier sentiment, "I don't want to be in this family!"
Meaning:
This line, spoken by Miguel, signifies the culmination of his character arc. After his journey, he fully embraces the central lesson of the film: that family connections are the most valuable thing in life, superseding individual ambition or fame.
Our memories, they have to be passed down by those who knew us in life – in the stories they tell about us.
— Héctor
Context:
Héctor explains this concept to Miguel while in the Land of the Dead, highlighting why it is so crucial for him to have his photo placed on the ofrenda and for Coco to remember him.
Meaning:
This quote directly explains the film's rules for existence in the afterlife. It articulates the central theme that a person's spirit and legacy survive only as long as they are remembered and spoken of by the living.