What Mexican Values Appear in the Film Coco
The film Coco, directed by Lee Unkrich and produced by Pixar Animation Studios, beautifully showcases a variety of Mexican values and traditions. Set during the Day of the Dead, the movie tells the story of young Miguel, a talented guitar player who dreams of becoming a musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Throughout the film, viewers are exposed to several Mexican values that are deeply rooted in the culture.
One of the most prominent Mexican values depicted in Coco is the importance of family. The film emphasizes the bond between family members and the significance of honoring their memory. Miguel’s journey to discover his roots and reconnect with his family is central to the story. The Day of the Dead celebration, which is a family affair, serves as a reminder of the importance of family ties and the legacy that each family member leaves behind.
Another Mexican value highlighted in Coco is the celebration of life and death. The Day of the Dead is a vibrant and colorful celebration that honors the deceased by remembering their lives and celebrating their achievements. The film beautifully illustrates this Mexican value through its depiction of the Land of the Dead, where the spirits of the deceased are revered and celebrated. This portrayal challenges the common Western view of death as a negative and morbid topic, instead presenting it as a natural part of life.
The film also emphasizes the importance of cultural identity and heritage. Coco is set in the fictional Mexican village of Santa Ana, where the characters speak Spanish and celebrate Mexican traditions. The film showcases various aspects of Mexican culture, such as music, dance, and art, which are deeply intertwined with the characters’ identities. This celebration of cultural heritage serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving one’s roots and honoring one’s ancestors.
Moreover, Coco highlights the value of forgiveness and the power of redemption. Throughout the movie, Miguel and his family grapple with past mistakes and conflicts. The film encourages viewers to forgive and move forward, emphasizing the importance of healing and reconciliation. This message is particularly powerful in the context of family relationships, where forgiveness can help mend broken bonds and restore harmony.
Lastly, the film showcases the Mexican value of hard work and determination. Miguel’s passion for music and his determination to achieve his dreams are central to the story. Despite facing numerous challenges, he remains resilient and committed to his goals. This portrayal of perseverance and dedication serves as an inspiration to viewers, reminding them of the importance of staying true to one’s passions and working hard to achieve their dreams.
In conclusion, the film Coco effectively showcases several Mexican values, including the importance of family, the celebration of life and death, cultural identity and heritage, forgiveness and redemption, and hard work and determination. These values are beautifully woven into the story, making Coco not only a captivating and entertaining film but also a meaningful and educational experience for viewers.
