Coco Plays a Fresh but Familiar Tune

Rating: 8/10 (7 January 2018)

Coco does what Pixar does best: tells a visually exciting story of childlike fun mixed with deeper lessons about life. (And in this case, death.)
The opening voice-over is unnecessary, and the beginning drags a bit. But once Miguel reaches the land of the dead, the movie is quick and smart. Hints are cleverly dropped along Miguel's journey to discover his history. Some are easy to miss, and some obvious ones aren't what we first think they are. In the end the movie rewards us with not just thrilling revelations, but also delight at how skillfully they've been woven together. A villain is defeated, but the day isn't won by beating the bad guy. The true victory comes in a moment of music that's a pure expression of love stretching across generations.
Coco is fresh enough that it doesn't feel like a rehash of films we've all seen before. Part of the credit goes to the authentic celebration of Mexican music and culture. The film is like a great new song from your favorite band: original and familiar at the same time. While it may or may not be a chart topper, Coco deserves a place among Pixar's greatest hits.