Disney movie COCO
Sample Solution
1. a) Title: Coco b) Director and Year: Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, 2017 c) Major Characters and Relationships:
- Miguel Rivera: A 12-year-old aspiring musician who secretly dreams of playing guitar, despite a family ban on music passed down generations ago.
- Mamá Coco: Miguel's great-great-grandmother, a kind and gentle soul who is the matriarch of the family and holds the memories of their deceased ancestors.
- Héctor Rivera: Miguel's deceased great-great-grandfather, a talented musician who was banished from the Land of the Dead for stealing a guitar.
Full Answer Section
- Ernesto de la Cruz: Miguel's idol, a legendary musician who he discovers is Héctor's best friend and the real owner of the stolen guitar.
- Imelda Rivera: Miguel's abuela (grandmother), the stern matriarch who enforces the family's ban on music, believing it to be the reason for their past misfortune.
2. Title and Cultural Theme:
The title "Coco" refers to Mamá Coco, who embodies the importance of family and remembering those who have passed away. The movie's theme revolves around honoring ancestors and celebrating their spirits, aligning with the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos. By remembering and celebrating his deceased family members, Miguel ultimately breaks the family's curse and embraces their musical heritage.
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3. Conflict and Theme:
a) Major Conflict: Miguel accidentally crosses into the Land of the Dead while trying to prove his musical talent. To return home, he must get his family's blessing, which requires his deceased great-great-grandfather Héctor to place his photo on the family Ofrenda before sunrise.
b) Themes:
- Family and Ancestral Legacy: The importance of family ties, honoring ancestors, and passing down traditions.
- Dreams and Following Your Passion: Pursuing your dreams even when faced with obstacles and societal expectations.
- Death and Remembrance: Día de los Muertos emphasizes how death is not the end, but a transformation and a way to remain connected to those we love.
- Music and Forgiveness: Music connects generations and plays a key role in resolving the family's past conflict and forgiveness.
4. Cultural Focus:
a) Cultural Background: The movie celebrates Mexican culture, specifically the tradition of Día de los Muertos.
b) Día de los Muertos: The film portrays the vibrant customs of Día de los Muertos, from building Ofrendas with food and photos of deceased loved ones to singing, dancing, and sharing stories about them.
c) Celebration of Life: Día de los Muertos is not a mourning event, but a joyous celebration of life, remembering, and connecting with those who have passed away. Miguel's journey through the Land of the Dead highlights this joyous spirit, as he sings, plays music, and learns about his deceased family members' lives.