Like all Pixar movies, Coco is charming, poignant, and visually beautiful. The movie was filled with the classic La Calavera Catrina imagery as well as traditional Mexican music. Even though I know it is a Pixar movie, I was still blown away by the production value. Each scene must have taken so many artists working collectively and it was definitely one of the best parts of the film. It is also reminiscent of classic animated films like Spirited Away and Tim Burton’s The Corpse Bride. However, I do think some of the plot was too predictable. Also, the whole narrative of a boy having a dream of which his family disapproves only to change their minds with the message of ‘family is most important’ is hackneyed in my opinion.

The movie also explores the topic of death, focusing on the Mexican holiday El Día de Los Muertos or the Day of the Dead. Every year, the living set up pictures of their deceased loved ones on an alter along with their favourite foods or other tokens to invite their ancestors to join them in spirit for a few days. It is interesting to learn about Mexican culture’s views on death and the afterlife and how it is unique to other cultures and religions.

I studied Spanish in high school and one of the things I miss most about it is learning about the cultures of various Spanish speaking countries. Watching this movie has inspired me to continue educating myself, even if it is not in a formal setting.