CoCo

Coco is a heartwarming 2017 animated film from Disney and Pixar that beautifully honors Mexican culture and the deep-rooted traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Set in the colorful town of Santa Cecilia, the story centers on Miguel Rivera, a 12-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a musician—despite his family’s long-standing ban on music. His idol is the legendary Ernesto de la Cruz, whom Miguel believes is his great-great-grandfather.

Everything changes on Día de los Muertos when Miguel discovers a clue about his ancestry. In a moment of determination, he “borrows” Ernesto’s guitar from a mausoleum and is magically transported to the Land of the Dead. There, he meets a lively cast of characters, including his ancestors and a mischievous yet kindhearted spirit named Héctor. As Miguel searches for the truth about his heritage, he uncovers family secrets, confronts betrayal, and learns the true meaning of love, legacy, and remembering those who came before us.

Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-directed by Adrian Molina, Coco stands out for its stunning animation, heartfelt narrative, and its respectful, joyful portrayal of Mexican customs. The film’s unforgettable soundtrack features “Remember Me,” which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, while the movie itself took home the Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

More than just a film, Coco is a celebration of family bonds, personal dreams, and cultural identity—reminding us all that those we love are never truly gone as long as we remember them.