Coco (the movie) is Good for the cold weather

At a time when family unity is needed most in this world Coco comes to the movie screen. Mexican culture is not afraid to tackle death, being an amalgamation of numerous events, in just the last 500 years, and having established the ritual of Dia de Los Muertos even further back.

A ban of music does not stop young Miguel from pursuing his dream of playing the guitar. He finds a connection with his ancestor ( a nod to the visual of Pedro Infante and the voice of Ricardo Montalbán) and this search leads him to a magical land.

 The power of this movie lies with the value and beauty of family, especially during this era of egocentric values. The power of family goes beyond present living families and stretches and connects to our deceased family as well.

It is a coming of age adventure, an awakening of Miguel's gift of music.

Coco stars talented artists, many who have produced or acted in movies promoting Mexican culture. Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal (starring in Mozart in the Jungle), Benjamin Bratt (with his own great Mission movie), Alanna Ubach, Jaime Camil, Alfonso Arau, Sofía Espinosa, Selene Luna, Ana Ofelia Murguia, Renee Victor, Luis Valdez (of Zoot Suit fame), Herbert Siguenza, Carla Medina, Edward James Olmos (Mi Familia & American Me).

It is a recognition and celebration of Mexican culture. Attention to detail, including the chords on the guitar, the chancla, papel picado, and so much more. Disney and Pixar may have gotten close to the bones of cultural appreciation with this movie.

It has received an A+ score on multiple sites, acknowledging the awesome work of Pixar artists and writers, and the inclusion of consultants.

Still, not every Mexican theme movie needs to focus on the Day of the Dead but all of them have been great. First came Dia de Los Muertos, a three minute short presented by the Ringling Brothers College of Art & Design, created by Ashley Graham, Kate Reynolds, and Lindsey St. Pierre. It captures the day perfectly in theme and spirit.

Then came the Book of Life, a well done full length feature. The art and design, and story worked well. It was produced by Guillermo Del Toro. It was a great movie and featured the kid selling churros.

Go and watch all of these great movies now, especially Coco playing on the big screen now.