Exploring Why Disney’s New Movie is Called Coco

Introduction

Disney has always been known for their incredible animated films, which have captivated audiences of all ages for decades. Their latest release, Coco, is no exception. This heartwarming tale follows the story of a young Mexican boy named Miguel who embarks on an adventure to uncover his family’s past. Along the way, he discovers the power of music, family, and tradition. But what makes this movie stand out from other Disney films? In this article, we will explore the cultural roots and magical elements of Disney’s Coco, as well as the meaning behind the name and the inspiration for its story.

1. Exploring the Cultural Roots of Disney’s Coco

Coco is heavily rooted in Mexican culture. Director Lee Unkrich said, “I wanted to tell a story that celebrated Mexico and Mexican culture, and that would honor my own Mexican heritage.” The movie pays homage to Mexican traditions such as Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), marigolds, and calaveras (skulls). Not only do these cultural references shape the visuals of the movie, they also play an important role in the story. Miguel’s journey of self-discovery is intertwined with understanding the importance of his family’s culture and traditions.

The setting is also incredibly detailed and authentic. “We were very careful to make sure that the world we created felt true to life,” Unkrich explained. “We worked with a team of cultural consultants and advisers to ensure that everything we depicted was respectful and accurate.” The vibrant colors, traditional clothing, and realistic landscapes all come together to create a beautiful and immersive experience for viewers.

2. A Look at the Magical World of Disney’s Coco

As with any Disney movie, Coco features some magical elements. Miguel enters the Land of the Dead, where he meets his ancestors and has a variety of thrilling adventures. This fantastical world is full of color, music, and spirits. It serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the power of music, two themes that are central to the movie.

The magical elements of Coco help to create a sense of awe and wonder, while also providing a source of escapism for viewers. As Unkrich explains, “The Land of the Dead is a place of great beauty and joy and fun, but it’s also a place of great danger. We wanted to give our audience a chance to experience both sides of this world.” Through this duality, viewers can gain insight into the power of life and death and the importance of living life to the fullest.

3. Discovering the Meaning Behind the Name Coco

So why did Disney choose the name “Coco” for the movie? According to Unkrich, the name was chosen to represent the film’s themes of family and tradition. He stated, “In many cultures, including Mexican culture, people nickname their grandparents ‘Coco.’ We liked the idea of using a term of endearment as the title of the film because it speaks to the core idea of the story, which is honoring your ancestors and celebrating family.”

The name “Coco” also has deeper symbolism. The word itself is derived from the Latin word “coccus,” which means “grain” or “seed.” This ties in with the movie’s themes of tradition and legacy, as it emphasizes the idea that each generation builds upon the foundations laid by those that came before them.

4. The Inspiration Behind the Name Coco for Disney’s New Movie

The name “Coco” was inspired by a variety of sources. The director drew inspiration from his own Mexican heritage, as well as the work of renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Kahlo’s artwork often featured skull imagery and bright colors, two elements that are prominent in the movie. Unkrich also took inspiration from the Mexican folk song “La Llorona,” which tells the story of a woman who drowns her children in a river after her husband leaves her. This tragic tale serves as a warning against the dangers of abandoning one’s family and culture.

The music in Coco was also heavily influenced by Mexican culture. Composer Germaine Franco said, “I wanted to make sure that the music honored the Mexican culture and the Mexican people, but I also wanted to make sure that it was accessible to a wide range of audiences.” She incorporated traditional Mexican instruments and rhythms into the score, as well as contemporary elements such as hip hop and jazz.

5. Uncovering the Story Behind Disney’s Coco

At its core, Coco is a story about family, music, and tradition. Miguel is a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician, despite his family’s disapproval. When he accidentally finds himself in the Land of the Dead, he goes on a quest to discover the truth about his family’s past. Along the way, he learns the importance of honoring one’s ancestors and cherishing the memories of those who have passed away.

The movie also touches on themes of identity, acceptance, and perseverance. Miguel must overcome his fears and doubts in order to reach his goals, while also learning to appreciate and embrace his family’s traditions. These powerful messages resonate with viewers of all ages, making the movie both entertaining and meaningful.

Conclusion

Disney’s Coco is an unforgettable movie that celebrates family, music, and tradition. From its cultural roots to its magical elements, the movie is filled with details that draw viewers in and keep them engaged. The name “Coco” is also symbolic, emphasizing the importance of honoring one’s ancestors and appreciating the legacy that they have left behind. With its unique blend of animation, music, and storytelling, Coco stands out as a powerful and inspiring film.