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A Review of “Encanto (2021)”

 

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I’ve decided to end my movie watching experience of 2021 with Encanto. I tend to be a sucker for Disney animated movies and this one was no exception. The premise is “The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who lives hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charming place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift – every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger”. So did the movie enchant me or did the magic fade out?

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Firstly, I love the setting and world of Encanto. This is the first time Disney has explored Columbian culture and I think they did a great job in representing it. The movie also doesn’t shy away from some dark stuff which genuinely surprised me. The world is also wonderful, despite just being in one house most of the time. Although, to be fair it is a magical house which allows it to be more visually interesting. Nevertheless, there was never a moment where it felt dull even though it was just set in one place. In terms of the 3D animation, it is still absolutely gorgeous to look at. Every shot feels so spectacular and vibrant which helps make the world feel alive. There is a character that can create flowers and her abilities allow for some dazzling scenery and shots.

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Encanto is a Disney musical with songs done by legendary Lin-Manuel Miranda. I can safely say that the songs are good and catchy. The songs here do feel different from that of Frozen (2013) which felt more musical theatre. Here the songs feel more pop sounding but it still works very well. There is a song near the end, “Two Oruguitas”, that is more emotional sounding which I like. I also give praise for them including songs that are sung in Spanish which strikes home the setting of Encanto.

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Encanto does a lot different with the story as well. For starters, this movie doesn’t have the chosen one, warrior heroine as they have done with previous animated movies. Our main character Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz) doesn’t have a gift, has a little awkward personality and is jealous of her gifted family members. She never performs an amazing heroic feat like previous heroes and heroines in Disney movies. She just loves her family and wants to do her best to help them. Likewise, the story subverts expectations you would have about other characters which I think will be an important lesson for kids. On that note, there are a lot of lessons taught in this film and I think they are very relevant messages. In terms of plot, it is more of a mystery and family drama type of story rather than a beat the bad person story. This made Encanto very refreshing to watch.

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However, the movie does go through a lot of the generic structure you would see from these Disney animated movies. It gets to the point that you can predict a lot of the mystery before it is even revealed. To be fair it is a family movie so it shouldn’t matter but it is something to note. The ending is also something I’m slightly mixed on. I think it dampens the overall message a little bit. Additionally, some supporting characters, unfortunately, do not get enough of a focus which leads to them either getting rushed resolution at the end or none at all. Lastly, while I do like the music in the movie, I don’t find them as easy to sing along to. The movie doesn’t have a song like “Let it Go” from Frozen or “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana. There are good songs but I don’t see kids singing the songs all day long.

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Overall, Encanto feels like an actual attempt at something new for Disney musicals. I find the movie succeeds in it as well. It was a completely enjoyable and pleasant experience that enchanted me. It’s charming and full of heart while delivering a worthy message to all. A fantastic, magical tale that is definitely worth watching.

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