Dog’s Movie House: “Coco” An Inspiring, Imaginative Concoction From Pixar!

 

Howdy Folks!  It’s The Kendog!

Inhabitants of The Land Of The Dead In Pixar’s “Coco”

 

 

 

I’ve been told on more than one occasion by colleagues that the bloom is officially off the rose at Pixar.  While it’s true that some of their offerings haven’t been as bold and originally as some of their earlier films (I’m looking at you “Cars 3”) the studio continues to put out solid, wonderful entertainment with only the occasional misfire (“The Good Dinosaur).  It’s a record any studio, animated or otherwise, would be proud to have.   That said, Pixar has always been at it’s best when pushing original material and in “Coco” Pixar proves once again that it’s the best in the business when it comes to multilayered animated films.

 

“Coco” tells the story of Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez) a young boy who wants nothing more than to be the greatest musician in Mexico.  Unfortunately due to an incident involving Miguel’s great ancestor, music is strictly forbidden in Miguel’s family’s household.  Instead, Miguel’s destiny appears to be in his family’s shoemaking business.  One night, during the Day Of The Dead festival, he sneaks out to take part in a Mariachi contest.  Needing a guitar, he breaks into the mausoleum of his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt) and steals the instrument, but in doing so finds himself transported to the land of the dead.  There he discovers that he needs the blessing of his dear, departed relatives to get him back to the living.  It’s during this journey that he will discover his sense of identity, family and where his destiny truly lies.

To tell you more would do you as a moviegoer a grave disservice.  The themes of family and being true to oneself have been done many times before, but in this particular case the pleasure lies in the journey rather than the destination.  “Coco”, co-directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”) and Adrian Molina, is a delightful mix of colorful detail and terrific characters along with a wonderful respect for Mexican culture.  (It may be Disneyfied, but the respect is still there).  Despite the familiar story tropes, the result is something wholly original despite the fact the many of the spirits in “Coco” may bear more than a passing resemblance to the characters in the charming animated film “The Book Of Life” (2014).

The animation in “Coco” is absolutely incredible in scope and detail.  The scenes involving the musicians playing their instruments has a level of detail I’ve rarely seen.  And the colors!  The Land Of The Dead is a riot of impressive color that would take multiple viewings to really appreciate.  And I know I’ve used this word repetitively but. . screw it, the level of detail is amazing!  I found myself actually wanting to visit the place despite its rather strict entrance policy.  As I was watching I found myself imagining what Disneyland could do with a variety of “Coco” themed attractions.  The lands in “Coco” are that warm and inviting.

Based on the animation alone I would recommend “Coco” as required family viewing, but it’s the script (also by Unkrich and Molina, with aid from Matthew Aldrich and Jason Katz) is what truly elevates this film to greatness.  The characters are so rich and full, with young Gonzalez doing wonderful work as Miguel, filling the protagonist with a vigor and energy that keeps him going throughout the many challenges he faces.  Also wonderful is Gael Garcia Bernal as Hector, a con-man turned guide for Miguel who turns out to be far more than he seems.  His arc is written and performed wonderfully, turning what could have been a purely comic performance into something full of pathos and emotion.  Benjamin Bratt is also wonderful as the legendary musician (and Miguel’s inspiration) Ernesto de la Cruz.  Bratt has the natural swagger and a troubadour’s voice.  de la Cruz also has an arc much more complicated than glimpsed in the trailers.  “Coco” also gets stellar voice work from Alanna Ubach, Renee Victor, Jaime Camil and Alfanso Arua as members of Miguel’s family from both sides of the living/dead spectrum.   And I haven’t even begun to discuss the fantastic music.  Gonzalez, Bernal, and Bratt, as well as the other cast members have wonderful singing voices and several of the musical numbers are absolute showstoppers.

“Coco” takes an interesting turn at one point and that particular narrative switch really deepens the story and makes it something both achingly heartbreaking and wonderfully joyful all at the same time.  I know that sounds like something of a contradiction, but hopefully you’ll understand that description when you see the film.  And see the film you should!  Multiple times with the ones you love!  “Coco” serves as one of Pixar’s best films to date.  5 Out Of 5 On Kendog’s Barkometer! So Sayeth The Kendog! 

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