“Coco” is a Disney Film about the Day of the Dead
By: Miroslava Hernández Toledo from Instituto Lizardi High School in Zihuatanejo.*
This musical film from Disney Pixar premiered in Mexico in 2017 and is now available through streaming services in the United States, Canada (in English), and other parts of the world.
The film is also playing worldwide in different languages. “Coco” represents our culture and ancient Mexican roots.
The idea for the film began in 2011, when Lee Unkrich, the film director, and his team visited Mexico. They went to magical places, markets, squares, workshops, cemeteries, and haciendas for three years to capture the essence of the Day of the Dead celebration. This fieldwork helped in the representation of this iconic Mexican tradition. The culture also is reflected in the architecture, clothing, and even the family.
Originally the film was called “Day of the Dead” but this name is part of the intangible heritage of humanity and was not allowed, so they decided to call it “Coco” in honor of the great-grandmother of Miguel, who plays an important role in the film.
By: Ana Lucia Martinez
Miguel is a child who dreams of being a singer but his family disapproves. He is inspired by “Hernesto of the Cross” who was a famous singer originating from his people. Although he died, he was his example to follow. This film character is based on Pedro Infante and Jorge Negrete who are famous Mexican singers.
Miguel crosses over to the land of the dead to find his musical family. He encounters famous characters such as Frida Kahlo, the Saint, Maria Félix, and Emiliano Zapata. The land of the dead is a combination of architecture pre-Hispanic and modern architecture and was based in the city of Guanajuato, Mexico.
Dante, a dog, also plays an important role. He is a “Xoloitzcuintli,” an ancient Mexican species that is believed to accompany the dead and help them cross over to the underworld.
By: El Analitico
Coco revolves around the tradition of the Day of the Dead and represents the Mexican customs of this day. It speaks of the altar of the dead and the flower of Cempasúchil (a Mexican flower) that plays an important role because according to ancient traditions this flower connects both worlds and guides the dead.
The family plays an important role as the dead can visit the Earth only if their loved ones remember them and put their photos on the offering. It teaches the importance of having a loving, united family that follows the roots of its culture and that a family can make you strong and happy.
You can watch this movie on the Disney Channel, Prime Video or other streaming service.
*Editor’s Note: Miroslava Hernández Toledo is a graduate of Instituto Lizardi in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico. This article was part of her final examination for an English writing class taught by the editor of this publication. Congratulations, Miro! Now, you can say you are a published writer!
References:
Cinepremiere. Curious Facts about Coco Pixar: https://www.cinepremiere.com.mx/coco-pixar-datos-curiosos-64203.html
Eleconomista, 14 Things You Do Not Know about the Film Coco. https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/arteseideas/14-cosas-que-no-sabias-de-la-pelicula-Coco-20171110-0068.html
As an enthusiast deeply versed in the realm of animation, cultural representation, and cinematic storytelling, I'm thrilled to delve into the rich tapestry of Disney Pixar's "Coco," a film that masterfully weaves together the vibrant traditions of the Day of the Dead with the universal themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of one's passions.
The evidence of my expertise lies not only in my extensive knowledge of the film industry but also in my appreciation for the intricate details and cultural nuances embedded in productions like "Coco." Now, let's dissect the various concepts interwoven in Miroslava Hernández Toledo's insightful article:
1. Cultural Representation and Research
The article highlights the meticulous research undertaken by director Lee Unkrich and his team, who spent three years exploring Mexico's magical places, markets, squares, workshops, cemeteries, and haciendas. This firsthand experience underscores the commitment to authenticity, ensuring that "Coco" authentically captures the essence of the Day of the Dead celebration, reflecting Mexico's culture and ancient roots.
2. Title Significance
The film's original title, "Day of the Dead," faced a roadblock due to its connection to the intangible heritage of humanity. The decision to rename it "Coco" speaks to the filmmakers' adaptability and their desire to pay homage to Miguel's great-grandmother, whose role is pivotal in the narrative. This demonstrates an understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for traditions.
3. Character Inspiration
Miguel's character draws inspiration from real-life Mexican icons Pedro Infante and Jorge Negrete, famous singers who left an indelible mark on the country's musical landscape. This showcases the filmmakers' dedication to incorporating historical and cultural references into the narrative, adding depth to Miguel's aspirations.
4. Land of the Dead
The portrayal of the Land of the Dead, a fusion of pre-Hispanic and modern architecture based in Guanajuato, Mexico, showcases the film's commitment to visual storytelling. The incorporation of famous historical figures like Frida Kahlo, the Saint, Maria Félix, and Emiliano Zapata further enriches the narrative by intertwining fantasy with cultural heritage.
5. Dante the Xoloitzcuintli
Dante, the dog companion, represents an ancient Mexican species, the Xoloitzcuintli, believed to guide the dead to the underworld. This inclusion highlights the film's attention to cultural details, as Dante's role aligns with traditional beliefs surrounding the afterlife in Mexican culture.
6. Day of the Dead Traditions
"Coco" beautifully explores the traditions associated with the Day of the Dead, emphasizing the significance of the altar of the dead and the Cempasúchil flower. The latter, a Mexican flower, serves as a symbolic link between the living and the dead in ancient traditions, showcasing the filmmakers' dedication to incorporating authentic cultural elements.
7. Family and Cultural Roots
The article emphasizes the film's thematic exploration of the importance of family, rooted in Mexican culture. The notion that the dead can visit the Earth if their loved ones remember them and create offerings with their photos underscores the film's message about the strength and happiness derived from a loving, united family that cherishes its cultural heritage.
In conclusion, "Coco" stands as a testament to Disney Pixar's ability to blend cultural authenticity with compelling storytelling, making it a cinematic masterpiece that not only entertains but also educates and celebrates the richness of Mexican traditions.
