In Disney•Pixar’s Coco, journey through the land of the dead with little Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez) who finds himself away from the land of the living and teaming up with Hector the trickster skeleton (Gael García Bernal) to discover the secrets of his family’s past that will not be forgotten.
"Mariachi Plaza Clip"
In the new clip "Mariachi Plaza", we see Miguel shining the shoes of a Mariachi who encourages him to follow his dream to be a musician like his hero Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Hesitant, Miguel takes the guitar and he doesn’t even get a strum in before his abuelita and the rest of his family descend on them to stop him from chasing a silly dream. They’re shoemakers and they will be. And anyone who has a grandma armed with a sandal to lay down the law knows there’s no messing with that.
Miguel dancing with charming trickster HectorCourtesy of Disney•Pixar
Growing up within Mexican cultural traditions in the household with a family much like Miguel's, it was a joy to see details like that embedded in the scene down the panaderia baked bread in the basket. Also made me hungry and miss visiting Mexico during the holidays.It’s so cool to see Disney•Pixar authentically keep true to all traditions big and small. The amount of things that were familiar and recognizable were abundant. And the scene interactions within the family members were hilariously spot on. Relating to Miguel is easy because we all have those crazy dreams that our parents and loved ones initially want to steer us away from.
Miguel interacts with his late family membersCourtesy of Disney•Pixar
The work that was put in by the team behind the movie shows. There’s a lot of background on the depth of research Disney and Pixar sought out in order to correctly represent the culture. Some behind the scenes could be seen in the second clip released online where we get to take a look at everything they did to bring Coco to life.
"Crafting Coco" Featurette
"Crafting Coco" showcases the importance of genuinely representing every facet of Mexican culture and the meaning behind the Dia de Los Muertos holiday. Remembering family members with offerings in an adorned altar (at home or at their graves) with pictures of them, items they loved as well as food and drink just as they did when they were living is super important during the November 1st festivities. You can’t ever say no to food from your grandparents living or dead just like some of the scenes in the clips shown. Everything from the gifts, flowers, calaverita skull designs, sweet bread, drinks and music taken to their graves with the same care as they were while living is seen. What makes it special is that Coco gives us a glimpse at how these gestures could creatively transcend to the land of the dead with incredible vibrancy and life.
Miguel finds himself magically transported to the stunning and colorful Land of the DeadCourtesy of Disney•Pixar
And all respectfully and truthfully replicated with the flavors, sounds, and colors of Mexico. The live footage dancers and musicians they captured is reviewed by artists to incorporate into the film. They took care to go to the places that would give them ideas as to how Mexico would look as an animated world. It's fantastical and vibrant just like the real life version! We can't wait to see more.
Disney•Pixar’s Coco is directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (Toy Story 3).
Coco opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.
Disney•Pixar’s Coco Movie PosterCourtesy of Disney•Pixar
Have Your Say
Do you practice any fun traditions at home to remember loved ones during the holidays? Comment below!
