by Areli Hernandez Romero

It’s that time of year again: “Dia De Los Muertos” Day Of The Day, celebrated on Nov. 1 and 2. My family is excited to set up our altar to bring back the memory of our loved ones once more. All memories come rushing back, the sweet scent of cempasuchil flowers and sweet bread being placed at our altar. All this excitement brings my family back and it only takes a few seconds to teleport to “The Land of the Dead” in the movie “Coco.”  

The animated fantasy “Coco” was released on Nov. 22, 2017, and has been an ultimate favorite. The animated fantasy, a blend of comedy and drama, was produced by Pixar Animated Studios for Walt Disney Pictures.

Twelve-year-old Miguel’s passion for music is well beyond his family’s expectations. His curiosity leads him on a journey to find his Idol, Ernesto De La Cruz. He is transported to ‘The Land of the Dead,’ where he awaits the acceptance of his passion, but little does he know of what he will be encountering instead. 

As you click play, a story is being told by Miguel, which explains the history of the “Rivera Family” and the history they have with music that plays a big role in the life of Miguel. Something unique is, how the story is told throughout “Enrramadas” or (Banners), which are used as a decor on altars. They include a variety of images and colors that represent different meanings. 

Throughout the movie, we can notice different types of cultural references, which is perfect for young audiences. Miguel spends the first half of the movie in a pueblo (small town). We can immediately notice a variation of traditional and colorful objects. For example, stands where people sell foods, toys, and decorations; traditional dishes like sweet bread, tamales, and mole, which are also placed on altars. The dressing style is very much casual and simple, which is really accurate to what we see in real life.

Whenever Miguel is teleported to ‘The Land Of The Dead,’ it’s a different universe where he reunites with his past ancestors. ‘The Land Of The Dead’ is a beautiful place where we get to learn about how the dead live in the after life. It can be described as vibrant and full of life even though the name might make us think otherwise. It’s very much interesting how the story flows and how every setting carries a memory. One important detail is ‘The Marigold Bridge,’ which carries a significant meaning to the dead that only can be crossed when a frame of a loved one is placed on an altar. Once Miguel stays in ‘The Land Of The Dead,’ he is able to experience the life of the dead and different challenges later on.

Miguel is able to give us an important lesson like the importance of chasing our dreams. His character is loving, authentic, and easy to understand throughout the film. Miguel, apart from being determined to be heard for his passion of music, also has a loving heart and continues to show it throughout the movie.

For me this movie has brought many memories, and I loved how the mood of the story changed throughout the film. It not only develops humor but also conveys to sadness and strong emotions that touch the viewer’s heart. I loved how the movie brings out many cultural references. The 3D effects are really interesting, and fun fact — Easter eggs are found throughout the film — which makes it even more exciting.

“Coco” reminds us that those whom we lose will live in our memory and hearts forever. Not only that, but it also tells us the importance of the love we should have for our families and the importance of the memories we hold of one another. I cannot wait to sit back and enjoy this movie once more.