Disney’s most recent film, Encanto, has been popular since its release for many reasons, such as the music and plot. A popular subject of conversation when it comes to this movie is its Latinx representation and deeper meanings. Although it is not Disney’s first Latinx story, the internet has praised this one specifically for its details and diversity.
The film
Encanto is set in Colombia and includes many details of its culture. Traditional foods, as well as Colombian superstitions, are represented in the film. We can take, for example, Dolores’ squeaks and Bruno’s knocking. Furthermore, the movie has magical realism sprinkled over it, a vital aspect of Latin American culture. Magical realism often blurs the line between fantasy and reality, using the actual world as a template while adding enchanting features.
The characters
The characters’ costumes are modelled after traditional clothing and contain a lot of minutiae. For example, each character’s gift is embroidered on their clothes, such as dumbbells on Luisa’s (character in the film) skirt. As well, the amount of character diversity in the movie is incredible. BIPOC communities often experience a lot of colorism. Often resulting in them being invalidated about their ethnicity and racial identity. Giving the characters different skin colours and features specific to POC has helped people feel represented in this movie. Many have responded to the picture positively, saying they felt seen and that the characters looked just like them.
The music
Lin Manuel-Miranda, Puerto Rican actor, songwriter and producer, made Encanto’s music possible. The Hamilton creator could create catchy tunes that reached #1 in the U.S. Spotify chart while incorporating Colombian roots and music. The soundtrack includes traditional Colombian folk instruments as well as salsa and bachata.
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