Shane Conto
Who is ready for Lin Manuel Miranda to return to making some Disney music? How does he even have the time? Basically, the big name films this year have Miranda attached in some shape or form (obviously an exaggeration but kind of true). With his directorial debut out on Netflix, his newest music livens up Disney Animation’s latest Encanto. Imagine…a village protected by magic and led by a family who all have magical abilities. Except for one…there must be some time of conflict, right? Poor Mirabel. She lives in the shadow of the rest of her family until she finds a prophecy from her mysterious Uncle Bruno says she will bring about the destruction of their magical home.
Sounds like a crazy fun ride, right? This narrative is one of the more unique from Disney animation. There is no traditional Disney villain or big malicious conflict. This story is a much more internal story about a family. What happens when the rising tensions among a family hit a fever pitch? This film runs with this idea and focuses on characters and human connections. Even with so much magic thrown in, the story never loses that human touch. Charlise Castro Smith helps create a moving and personal story. As the black sheep in a family, I know what it feels like to not quite fit in. Mirabel is such a wonderful and endearing presence to join on this journey of self-discovery.
When you watch an animated film, the actual animation must be a big part of it, right? First off, Encanto is a gorgeous film from start to finish. The vibrant colors and beautiful design bring plenty of life to this personal and heartfelt tale. Castro Smith serves as a co-director along with Jared Bush and Byron Howard which benefits the film with authenticity. I remember when Brave made waves with hair yet the whole cast of characters in Encanto feature textured and gorgeous hair. The level of detail that goes into this film is inspiring. Despite taking place in just one (magical) home, the film offers plenty of elaborate and exciting set pieces. A creepy crawl space, a flowery garden room, and a sand tomb that would make Aladdin jealous…too much to enjoy!
What else brings plenty of life to the film? This voice cast! Can they just add Stephanie Beatriz to everything? Her sweet and layered performance as Maribel is endearing and makes it easy to fall in love with this character. John Leguizamo brings his great veteran vocal performance talents to this film and makes for one of the most fun characters in Bruno. There are plenty of fun performances in the film, but Maria Cecilia Botero gives Abuela gravitas and provides some of the best emotional moments in the film.
How have I not mentioned any of the music in a review of a Disney Animation musical? Miranda does what he does best…make electronic music with great variety. The heart and soul of Encanto are in the beautiful and engaging songs. Whether it is a duet between two sisters finally connecting or telling a story about the foreboding prophecies of Bruno, every song is a banger. I wanted to jump up and join the dancing going on onscreen. The music is a perfect cherry on top of this beautiful and moving new film that deserves your time and support.
