Saturday, 13 January 2018

FILM: Coco 3D 4DX (dirs: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina, 2018)

"It has been an honour to meet you, Miguel."

Coco is an utter joy to watch and stands as one of Pixar's very best.  Taking on the potentially difficult concept of the Mexican Day Of The Dead (for a children's animation) proves to be a positive challenge, as the film finds the right balance between being culturally respectful and playful as well as handling the big theme of the afterlife in a direct but child-friendly way.   Pixar's usual heartstring-pulling backstory-setting is handled very efficiently and effectively, and the viewer is immediately drawn in to the story by the extremely amiable and endearing protagonist, Miguel.  Coco represents a huge step up in terms of animation, not just the astonishing level of detail but also the stunning use of colour and lighting; it is simply beautiful to watch, especially in 3D.  Themes of family, remembrance and tradition are skilfully handled, and the story takes some bold narrative steps and has a constant energy and drive that is maintained right to the tear-jerking/heart-warming/life-affirming ending.  Coco is simply a truly accomplished and totally delightful film.  

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