Disney-Pixar’s Coco

Miguel was raised in a family with a generations-old ban on music. Despite this, Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, the late Ernesto de la Cruz. Seeking a chance to prove himself and win his family’s approval, Miguel makes a choice that sends him to the Land of the Dead.  Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector, and they set off on an extraordinary journey to help Miguel get home.

Coco is about the unbreakable bonds of family, fulfilling dreams, and doing what is right. I felt love, sorrow, joy, and humor throughout the film. My belief system does not align itself 100% with Dia de los Muertos traditions, but there is something very comforting about the idea that our family members commune with us, even after death. Coco is different from most of the children’s movies you have seen before. It deals openly and frankly with death. Children who are not accustomed to this may be uncomfortable. Where I live, in Arizona, Mexican culture is vibrant and active and Dia de los Muertos is well-known to most. If you shelter your children from death, this may not be the movie for them. However, it also could be a good place to begin the conversation.

I highly recommend Coco. It is one of the best children’s movies I have seen in a while…and it is not just for the kids.

Rating: Rated PG for thematic elements.

Worth seeing in 3D? That depends. If you love 3D movies, particularly beyond the window effects, then see it in 3D. It’s beautiful.  If not, 2D will be fine.

Scene after the credits? No.

Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” is now in theaters.

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 Disclaimer: I attended a media screening of this movie to facilitate my review. All opinions are my own.