Just got back from seeing this and I can say without reservation that it is hands down my favorite movie of 2017. I seriously bawled my eyes out (in the best way imaginable) for ten minutes towards the end and the water works started again in the car ride home.
First of all, the world-building for the Land of the Dead was amazing. I could read or watch many more movies about this place. Second, the story, the plot, was clever and fresh. I love that it dealt with death, absentee fathers, the hard life of artists, and loyalty to one’s family vs. following your dreams. I’ve never seen so much heavy stuff in an animated movie handled so well while managing to stay fun and engaging. I didn’t see the surprise twist coming. Third, the characters were so realistic, from little Miguel and his idealism and defiance, to his great grandma, Coco and her dementia, to Hector and his struggle to get back home and what happened to him. Gah. Fourth, the music and culture! Beautiful guitars, beautiful songs, and I love the respectful way they teach you about Mexican culture without essentializing it.
Most of all though, it’s a really great way to think how we choose to live and remember those who came before us. Maybe it’s because I just lost my grandma, but I don’t think that’s the only reason I was bawling my eyes out. Sure, my tears were cathartic, it was a really good cry. But more than that, this movie was so heartfelt it made you feel something on a gut level. You can tell a lot of thought and love went into this one.
Highly recommend, you won’t regret it.
10/10 for me.