COCO
Mexican lore and culture spring to life in this dazzling and delightful animated spectacle. In the tradition of "Toy Story" and "Finding Nemo", Disney/Pixar presents this family-themed adventure that both
entertains and educates. Director Lee Unkrich ("Toy Story 3") and co-director Adrian Molina fill the screen with love, laughter and music while painting a fascinating depiction of the rich Hispanic culture. The filmmakers and animators traveled to Mexico for thorough research, much like Walt Disney and company did in 1941 on a South America goodwill tour (documented in the film "Walt & El Grupo") to study and gather details for "Saludos Amigos" (1943) and "The Three Caballeros" (1945). The result is a new masterpiece that easily stands alongside Walt's two classics. Some familiar voices include Cheech Marin as a corrections officer, Edward James Olmos as Hector's forgotten friend Chicharrón and Pixar favorite John Ratzenberger as Juan Ortodoncia. The title character Mamá Coco, voiced by Ana Ofelia Murguía, is Miguel's great-grandmother who is crucial to remembering the past. The biggest scene stealer is Dante, a lovable dog who follows Miguel into the Land of the Dead. A festive south-of-the-border score by Michael Giacchino and some new songs light up the screen. "Remember Me", a haunting tune from the "Frozen" songwriting team of Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, is captivating. 2014's animated "The Book of Life" has a similar theme, but this latest treasure happily takes off in a different direction. Like the best of Disney, there are emotional moments that pull at the heart - it's not just for kids. "Coco" is a joyful fiesta. (4 CAMS)
Rated PG (thematic elements)
Running Time: 109 minutes
