Coco is an animated feature film released by Pixar Animation Studios in 2017. Directed by Lee Unkrich, with co-director Adrian Molina, the movie explores themes of family, tradition, and the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), a significant cultural celebration in Mexico.
The story follows Miguel Rivera, a young boy from Santa Cecilia, Mexico, who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family's generations-old ban on music due to an ancestral tragedy. On his journey, Miguel ends up in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead, where he uncovers the real story behind his family's history. Here, he meets Héctor, a charming trickster, who helps him in his quest to return to the Land of the Living before he is forgotten.
The film's setting spans between the real world and the fantastical Land of the Dead, which is depicted with vibrant colors, marigold bridges, and intricate designs inspired by traditional Mexican art. The Land of the Dead is a visual representation of the afterlife during the Day of the Dead, where spirits come together to celebrate their lives and remember their loved ones.
Coco has been praised for its authentic portrayal of Mexican culture, particularly its depiction of the Day of the Dead. The film was developed in close collaboration with cultural consultants to ensure accuracy and respect for the traditions portrayed:
Development on Coco began in 2011, with the initial title "Día de los Muertos." The film was released in Mexico on October 27, 2017, and in the United States on November 22, 2017. It received widespread critical acclaim for its visuals, music, emotional depth, and cultural authenticity.
The film was both a commercial and critical success:
Coco has left a lasting impact on both the animation industry and the representation of cultural stories in media: