Coco Review

Release year: 2017

Directors: Lee Unkrich & Adrian Molina

Running time: 109 minutes

Pixar thrives on original ideas. The only missteps I have ever witnessed with this studio are when they milk a fantastic idea with sequels, as even the greatest do; and even though I do not like some of their original movies, I can still respect the artistry and intention behind almost all of them (with the exception of Cars). Originality in a kid’s movie is refreshing, since it is not preying on young innocence/ignorance to when a movie is a knock-off, an uninspired cash grab, or just plain infringement, since normal films of these types can be easily dismissed by adults. Coco is one of those movies that has an idea that is so admirably original, yet its message is in no way alien and is instead both familiar and applicable. One does not have to be a member of the culture this movie displays to receive its messages of passion, memories, and family, and that beautiful transformation of the specific to the universal is Pixar’s trademark that has struck again.

Per expectation, this movie is so beautifully animated. Not one shot feels out of place and when it is not breath-taking it is deeply realistic. The story follows the artistic, soulful Miguel, and so does the viewer when every bit of scenery is meticulously but naturally laid out with a captivating spectrum of colors and movements. This movie is some of the strongest proof of the power of animation: the dedication, the emulation, the inspiration that goes into it can be mesmerizing.

The movie is not entrapped by a domination of style over substance, however. With every spectacular visual there is a believable, humorous character, a perfectly placed plot point, or an emotionally impactful moment. This movie somehow finds a way to balance cultural exposition and exploration with character development, music, and an entertaining plot instead of forcing each component to compete with the others. Artistic unity is probably the best way to describe it, especially returning to the concept of highly purposeful art direction and editing. Every element works toward an unforgettable ending that is satisfactory but not cliché or entirely expected.

Basically, this is one of the most engaging movies in Pixar’s impressive history, and this is sadly the primary reason for what I believe to be the film’s biggest flaw, which has to deal with characters’ interactions. I can remember at least two instances where the characters’ reactions to a discovery, or their thought processes in a situation were not convincing, but this error only stuck out so sorely because the rest of the movie was so believable in the development of such endearing characters. Coco holds itself to such a high standard that some minor, isolated moments where it does not reach the standard are regrettably obvious. It is one of the best problems for a movie to have, but it was a problem nonetheless.

As an entire experience, this movie is truly incredible and astonishing, with an enjoyable balance between charm and depth that make it more than worth the watch. I cannot recommend this movie enough, as its filmmakers found the perfect way to craft an impactful, memorable film without marring the accessibility of a classic Pixar movie.