12/11/2017 - Coco (2017) - 6/10

Unexpectedly, I actually quite liked this solid Pixar effort. It is simplistic and less than thrilling for chunks, but it felt genuine and emotionally earned. Plus, the animation was gorgeous and stellar, delivering outstanding spectacle to satisfiably embellish this heartfelt familial tale.

Though catered to all audiences, the story still felt authentic and culturally sensitive. Personally, that felt like a big plus in this big budget Pixar mega movie, providing some cultural context and depth for my knowledge and enjoyment. Again, it wasn’t complex or pushing any narrative boundaries, but it worked its magic enough to fish a lump in my throat.

The animation was tremendous, providing visual expanse and amazement. The animators deserve quite the pat on the back for this film.

While this was a satisfying and applaudable effort, I don’t think that it reached the heights of Pixar’s best nor was it transformatively spectacular to demand some of the immense praise I feel that it gets. It is a good little film, but it is slowish and a tad dull. The emotion of the journey clicks in the end, but it certainly isn’t extraordinary.

I liked Coco (I don’t know if I am in love with the name, but c’est la vie). It was a good average/above average effort. Little above and beyond, but it won’t disappoint you.