Disney-Pixar's Coco offers a vibrant, heartfelt journey into the traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and the universal experience of grief. Through the eyes of Miguel, we see how memory and storytelling keep loved ones alive in our hearts, teaching us that even after loss, the bonds of family and love remain unbroken.
Themes of Grief in Coco
Coco beautifully illustrates how grief can coexist with joy. The movie’s central message is clear: remembering loved ones allows them to live on in spirit. Miguel’s journey to the Land of the Dead shows children (and adults) that while loss is painful, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who came before us.
For families watching Coco, the film provides moments to:
- Discuss Family Legacy: Talk about how stories, photos, and keepsakes connect us to the past.
- Explore Cultural Traditions: Learn how different cultures honor and remember their loved ones.
- Foster Gratitude: Focus on the love and lessons we carry forward from those we’ve lost.
Cultural Significance and Impact
Coco has been praised for its authentic representation of Mexican culture and its sensitive portrayal of death and remembrance. Director Lee Unkrich noted a significant shift in his understanding of grief through the lens of Día de los Muertos, stating, "Interestingly, director Lee Unkrich admitted Coco’s storyline actually pivoted from his original idea of a boy trying to get over the grief of a loss, in order to more accurately reflect Día de Muertos’s cultural purpose and the Mexican attitude to death."
Practical Takeaways for Families
- Create a Memory Table: Inspired by the ofrenda in Coco, build a space in your home with photos, items, or letters that remind you of your loved ones.
- Tell Stories Together: Share favorite memories or traditions from the past and encourage children to ask questions.
- Emphasize Connection Over Time: Help children see that loved ones can still guide and inspire them, even if they are no longer physically present.
Explore More Animated Stories of Grief
If you loved Coco, don’t miss how The Lion King teaches children about resilience after loss or how Big Hero 6 highlights the power of friendships in healing.
Check out our previous post: “The Lion King: Understanding Grief Through Simba’s Journey” or our next post: “Big Hero 6: Finding Hope in Friendship”.
At Jurni, we're working to bring these themes of grief, healing, and hope to life through an animated short film inspired by our story. If you’d like to support this project, please visit our Kickstarter campaign or learn more on the Jurni website. Together, we can create something meaningful for families navigating their own journeys.