There is something special about the Family Madrigal and it is more than just magic. The 60th animated film is bringing what is most important to the big screen. It’s doing it in a way that is both fun and musical as “In The Heights” producer Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote all the original songs.
Encanto follows the Family Madrigal through the Mirabel’s eyes; the only member not to have magical abilities. Mirabel suffers from a bit of jealousy as her younger cousin receives his gift. Trying to convince herself that she is special also creates a rift in the family. That rift causes the house to fall as the magic fades. Now it’s up to Mirabel to figure out how to mend the rift and make the family whole.
Being the 60th animated film, Encanto also is the first Disney film to explore Columbian traditions. It also showcases an entire cast of Hispanic voices including John Leguizamo as Bruno. Stephanie Beatriz voices young Mirabel, and Maria Cecilia Betero voices Abuela.
The artwork in the film is absolutely stunning. Similarly Miranda paid close attention as he composed all the songs to enhance Columbian culture. The entire soundtrack can be heard via Spotify here. All in all, Encanto is perfect for the whole family. It has elements that kids will love with the colorful aspects and fun musical numbers. It also has a deep message that adults and parents will find comforting. That is the power of love in the family that holds everything together and creates a unique magic within.
At an hour thirty nine minute run time, Encanto is sure to have you laughing, crying and cheering for the Mirabel as she tries to restore the magic. What she really does is restore the family in an unexpected way that one has to see to believe. Encanto came out in theaters Thanksgiving and is currently playing in one near you.