Coco (2017)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Coco is a 2017 animated musical fantasy film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-directed by Adrian Molina, the film is set in Mexico and centers around the celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

The Story of Miguel

The protagonist, Miguel Rivera (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez), is a 12-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a musician, despite his family’s generations-long ban on music. The Riveras are shoemakers, and the music ban was instigated by Miguel’s great-great-grandmother, Mamá Imelda, after her husband left her to pursue a music career.

Discovering Ernesto de la Cruz

Miguel idolizes the late Ernesto de la Cruz (voiced by Benjamin Bratt), a famous singer and actor. Miguel discovers a connection between Ernesto and his family, believing Ernesto to be his great-great-grandfather. On Día de los Muertos, he accidentally damages a photo of Mamá Imelda, revealing a hidden part that shows her with her husband, holding Ernesto’s famous guitar.

Journey to the Land of the Dead

Determined to prove his talent and follow his dream, Miguel attempts to steal Ernesto’s guitar from his mausoleum to participate in a talent show. This act of theft lands him in the Land of the Dead, where he meets his deceased relatives, including Mamá Imelda. They inform him that he must return to the living world before sunrise, or he will become one of the dead.

Meeting Héctor

Miguel teams up with Héctor (voiced by Gael García Bernal), a charming trickster who offers to help Miguel find Ernesto in exchange for Miguel taking Héctor’s photo back to the living world so he can visit his daughter. As they search for Ernesto, they uncover shocking truths about Héctor, Ernesto, and Miguel’s family history.

The Climax and Resolution

Miguel discovers that Ernesto poisoned Héctor and stole his songs, becoming famous by taking credit for Héctor’s work. With the help of his family and friends, Miguel exposes Ernesto’s treachery. In the end, Miguel returns to the living world with Héctor’s photo and reconciles with his family, leading to the lifting of the music ban.

The Importance of Family

The film concludes with Miguel’s family embracing their musical heritage and remembering Héctor, ensuring he is never forgotten. Miguel’s great-grandmother, Coco (voiced by Ana Ofelia Murguía), remembers Héctor and the love he had for her, restoring Héctor’s place in the family’s memory.

Movie Ending

The film ends with the Riveras’ acceptance and celebration of their musical roots, and Miguel playing music with his family. The importance of remembering loved ones and the strength of familial bonds are underscored, emphasizing the theme of honoring one’s ancestors.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Coco.

Type of Movie

Coco is an animated musical fantasy film that combines elements of family drama, adventure, and cultural celebration.

Cast

• Anthony Gonzalez as Miguel Rivera
• Gael García Bernal as Héctor
• Benjamin Bratt as Ernesto de la Cruz
• Alanna Ubach as Mamá Imelda
• Renée Victor as Abuelita Elena
• Ana Ofelia Murguía as Mamá Coco

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Michael Giacchino. The soundtrack features memorable songs like “Remember Me” (written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez), which plays a central role in the film’s emotional narrative.

Filming Locations

As an animated film, Coco was created using digital animation techniques by Pixar Animation Studios, with no physical filming locations. The visual style and cultural elements were inspired by real locations and traditions in Mexico.

Awards and Nominations

Coco received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song (“Remember Me”)
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Animated Feature Film
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Animated Film

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The filmmakers conducted extensive research in Mexico to accurately represent Día de los Muertos and Mexican culture.
• The animation team used new technology to create the vibrant, colorful Land of the Dead.
• Anthony Gonzalez, who voiced Miguel, also sang many of the character’s songs, adding authenticity to his performance.

Inspirations and References

The film draws inspiration from Mexican folklore and the traditions of Día de los Muertos. The vibrant visual style and themes of family and remembrance are central to Mexican culture.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Coco closely follows the intended storyline. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Coco has been adapted into various children’s books and novels that expand on the story and characters. These adaptations remain faithful to the film while offering additional insights and adventures.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Miguel discovering his family’s connection to Ernesto de la Cruz.
• Miguel’s journey to the Land of the Dead and meeting Héctor.
• The climactic confrontation with Ernesto de la Cruz.
• The emotional scene where Miguel sings “Remember Me” to Mamá Coco.

Iconic Quotes

• “Remember me, though I have to say goodbye.” – “Remember Me”
• “I’m proud we’re family!” – Miguel
• “One cannot deny who one is meant to be.” – Ernesto de la Cruz

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Various Pixar Easter eggs are hidden throughout the film, including references to other Pixar movies and characters.
• The film’s attention to detail in representing Mexican culture and traditions includes accurate depictions of ofrendas (altars) and marigold petals.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was around $175 million, and it grossed over $807 million worldwide.
• Coco was the first film with a nine-figure budget to feature an all-Latino principal cast.
• The character of Ernesto de la Cruz was inspired by iconic Mexican musicians and actors like Pedro Infante and Jorge Negrete.

Why Watch?

Coco is a beautifully animated film that offers a heartfelt story about family, culture, and the importance of remembering loved ones. Its stunning visuals, memorable music, and emotional depth make it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

Director’s Other Movies

Lee Unkrich also directed:

• Toy Story 3 (2010)
• Finding Nemo (2003) (co-director)
• Monsters, Inc. (2001) (co-director)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Toy Story 3 (2010)
• Up (2009)
• Inside Out (2015)
• Moana (2016)
• Finding Nemo (2003)

Coco is still one of Pixar’s best films. It’s a great, immersive experience that celebrates the power of music, memory, and family. Its legacy and critical acclaim show just how important it is as a modern classic in animated cinema.