Coco is a heartwarming tale that hosts an array of memorable characters on a beautiful Mexican canvas.

Rating: 9/10 (24 February 2018)

Pixar rarely put a foot wrong, but lately their animations have become slightly uninspired (I'm looking at you 'Cars' franchise). Fortunately they are back, detailing an imaginative world with some extremely creative intricacies. A young boy who wishes to become a musician is forced to continue his family's legacy. Rebelliously he ignores his family's wishes and steals a guitar, to which he suddenly becomes cursed and now resides in the afterlife. This is probably as adventurous a film can be for children in regards to portraying death. Highlighting the importance of remembering loved ones and embracing your family, it's an extremely tender story that rather touched my heart. Trust Pixar to make me emotionally vulnerable. On top of this it's packed full of Mexican culture, in particular the Dia De Los Muertos ("Day of the Dead" between you and me) event that is brimming with hearty family values. Miguel, our protagonist, starts off as a stubborn rebel but slowly succumbs to the realisation that others are just as important. Being surrounded by his deceased relatives develops him as a character, to which we emotionally become invested in him and the story itself. A few twists and turns to keep all viewers engaged. Absolutely gorgeous animation, especially the afterlife world which is populated with vibrant spirit animals and colourful architecture. An all Mexican cast is much appreciated and definitely enhances the authenticity of this production, the voice acting and musical numbers were both executed perfectly. "Remember Me" was a beautiful song, its lyrics pulled me in. The humour doesn't always hit, and that really is my only flaw. The screenplay just tried too hard. Having said that, this is one of Pixar's better animations in recent years and continues their powerful hold of the genre. That ending though...urgh, I nearly teared up.