Review: Coco

Can I just say— I love Coco. Whoever said that animated movies are just for kids probably never give them a chance in the first place. They're loads of fun for children who may take the story more at face value, and older audiences can also enjoy them for their insights on real life troubles. Animated movies are a great way of showing problems we face every day just blown up to proportions that younger minds can digest— without all of the drama.

Coco's a wonderful way of combining a well-crafted story with insight on Mexican culture and more specifically, the holiday of Dia de Los Muertos. We follow 12-year-old Miguel who aspires to be a musician despite his family's vehement opposition to it and to music in general. Miguel's journey of self-reflection takes us along for the ride as he travels between both worlds: living and the dead. The story maintains being funny and sincere while also educating viewers on Mexican culture.

I, for one, received a cultural lesson from watching this movie. I now know the significance of an ofrenda, and Coco has also introduced me to a mixed genre of music including mariachi, flamenco, and bolero. Also, wait until you hear Anthony Gonzalez's (the voice of Miguel's) voice! There's something very sentimental and raw to the music score in this movie, and the voices amplify this quality. And the music is lovely. Listen to "Remember Me" and the tune will get stuck in your head. Watch the movie and listen to that song, and it becomes even more meaningful.

In a racially charged time like we have today, Coco's premiere is very significant. Similar to how Miguel has discovered his path, his heritage, and the importance of family, we can all grow to become more self-aware and relate to others who are going through the same journey.