“Encanto”: For Better or Worse
By Ryan Bright
Although most Disney films are light-hearted and don’t tackle serious talking points, “Encanto” manages to balance the traditional Disney feeling with a more mature message about family expectations.
Everything’s Perfect… Almost.
Photo of “Encanto” scene taken from Walt Disney Pictures
“Encanto” features a family of gifted children, each with a unique superpower of their own gifted to them by a magic candle. Mirabel, a family member who failed to receive a powerful gift, tries her best to help her family, even though she struggles with jealousy. With a will to prove herself, she does her best to help the family prepare for the next gifting ceremony, where a younger member of the family will receive his gift. During the celebration, the magic of the candle corrupts the home in which they live, hinting at some hidden conflict below the surface. In order to protect her family, she will have to uncover her fate as well as the cure to the strange destruction plaguing her family.
Fun, but Lacking More
Although the story is Disney at its core, there are some songs and scenes that don’t hit the mark. “Under the Surface,” a song about one of the character’s inner conflicts and search for true self-worth is undercut due to the song’s off-putting style. In addition, some of the characters feel irrationally rude, specifically to Mirabel. It’s understandable that she would face some awkward situations, but the scenes presented seem way overdone, feeling forced and careless. Even with these flaws, it’s still a great movie. The characters are interesting and unique in their design, each one displaying their gift through their aesthetic. The music, besides the exceptions mentioned above, felt fresh and fun. Overall, a solid addition to the Disney collection.
A Darker Turn (Spoiler Warning)
“Encanto” takes on a more serious narrative about family expectations, using metaphors like the housebreaking apart to show the dynamics of the people found within. Mirabel is forced to face the constant disappointment that is forced upon her by her family and community. Her grandmother struggles with keeping her “Miracle Alive” because it is the last gift given to her by her husband when he died, which in turn directly affects the family. She takes this emotion out on them, forcing her family to follow high expectations and making them believe their “gifts” are what make them a part of the family, rather than blood or love. In the end, she comes to terms with her past and is able to fix the family's relationship. It is good how they dove into more serious content about relationships and expectations and the damage that can cause, even though it may not fully fit the happy and bright Disney style. It’s sad and emotional, but it works well, allowing characters to grow and learn that people aren’t perfect.
“Encanto” is no doubt a great Disney movie that will have you wanting more. Although it isn’t a super standout from many of the other modern Disney films, it still does a great job at being both entertaining and interesting. The only thing holding it back from being better would be the stage direction of some of the musical elements as well as some of the terrible character writing. The final rating for this show is 7.5/10.