Is Coco Based on a Fairy Tale? Unveiling the Cultural Origins of Pixar's 'Coco'

While Pixar's animated film 'Coco' does feature fantastical elements such as the Land of the Dead and magical realism, its narrative and themes are deeply rooted in cultural practices and beliefs rather than following a traditional fairy tale. The story follows a young boy named Miguel who dreams of becoming a musician, and through his journey, he learns about his family's history and the importance of remembering loved ones who have passed away.

The Cultural Significance of 'Coco'

'Coco,' released in 2017, was not only a massive success in the Mexican box office but also became the biggest movie success in Mexican history. One reason for its success is the prominence given to a cultural event rich in historical significance: La Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. This holiday has its roots in Aztec traditions dating back hundreds of years. The Aztecs and other Nahua people living in what is now central Mexico held a cyclical view of the universe and saw death as an integral part of life. According to their beliefs, upon dying, a person's soul would travel to Chicunamictlán, the Land of the Dead. It is believed that a journey through nine challenging levels, which could take several years, is necessary before the soul reaches Mictlán, the final resting place.

The Day of the Dead and Cultural Rituals

In Nahua rituals honoring the dead, traditionally held in August, family members would provide food, water, and tools to aid the deceased in their difficult journey. This practice inspired the contemporary Day of the Dead celebration, in which people leave food or other offerings on their loved ones' graves or set them out on makeshift altars called ofrendas. The holiday has evolved over the years to include altars for the victims of various events, such as the AIDS epidemic, the drug war, and the 1985 earthquake in Mexico. The film 'Coco' reflects these cultural traditions and includes small nods to daily life in Mexico, such as a slack-tongued Xolo, a Mexican breed of hairless dog, as Miguel's loyal sidekick, and a two-dimensional prologue animated to look like papel picado, traditional tissue-paper art. These elements underscore the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and make 'Coco' a deeply meaningful and authentic representation of its culture.

How 'Coco' Connects with Mexican and Global Communities

The success of 'Coco' cannot be separated from its deep cultural connections. By weaving stories of Mexican heritage, family, and the Day of the Dead into its narrative, the film has resonated with both Mexican and global audiences. Pixar's portrayal of Mexican culture in 'Coco' highlights the importance of cultural representation and authenticity in storytelling. It also serves as a tribute to the vibrant and rich traditions of Mexico, making it both a celebration of culture and a powerful story of family and identity.

Through its beautiful visuals, emotional storytelling, and deeply rooted cultural references, 'Coco' has become a symbolic representation of the Day of the Dead and the importance of celebrating the deceased in Mexican culture. The film not only entertains but also educates viewers about the cultural significance of the Day of the Dead and the importance of remembering loved ones who have passed away.