Coco is a vibrant animated musical film by Pixar, distributed by Disney, that tells the story of a 12-year-old boy, Miguel. He ventures into the Land of the Dead to seek his great-great-grandfather’s blessing so he can return to the living world without giving up his love for music. The film blends Mexican cultural traditions with a heartfelt family story, exploring themes of memory, music, and legacy.
Miguel Defies Family Tradition To Pursue Music And Crosses Into The Dead
Miguel comes from a family of shoemakers, founded by his great-great-grandmother Imelda. After her husband, a musician, abandoned the family to pursue his career, Imelda forbade music in the family. Despite this, Miguel is fascinated by music, especially the famous Mexican singer Ernesto de la Cruz. His passion for music leads to a family conflict, prompting him to attend the Day of the Dead celebration in secret, where he attempts to perform but lacks a guitar.
Coco (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)Determined to follow de la Cruz’s motto, “Seize your moment,” Miguel steals the musician’s guitar from his tomb, triggering his transformation into a spirit and crossing over to the Land of the Dead. There, he meets his deceased relatives, including Mama Imelda, who initially offers her blessing on the condition that he abandons music. Miguel refuses to give up his dreams, choosing instead to find de la Cruz and secure his approval, believing him to be his great-great-grandfather.
Miguel Uncovers Hector’s Truth And Strives To Save Him Through Memory
Miguel discovers Hector, a forgotten musician, who helps him navigate the Land of the Dead. Through Hector, Miguel learns the shocking truth: Hector is his real great-great-grandfather, and de la Cruz stole his songs and even murdered him to prevent him from leaving. Hector’s fading memory threatens his existence, as only living family members remembering him can keep him from vanishing. Miguel realizes he must help Coco, Hector’s daughter, remember him in the living world to save him.
Miguel restores Hector’s memory by performing the song “Remember Me” for Coco, allowing her to recall her father and restore his photograph on the family’s ofrenda. Hector survives and is finally recognized as a celebrated musician, while de la Cruz is exposed as a murderer. The film concludes with Miguel’s family embracing music once again, celebrating both their heritage and the enduring importance of memory, music, and family bonds.
