Encanto (2021) Movie Review
Encanto is one of the most vibrant and colorful animated movies from Walt Disney Studios. It follows Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz), a Columbian teenager who is struggling to find her place in her family. The Madrigal’s live in a magical house in a city called Encanto. They’re different from the others who live in the village because they have powers. Isabela (Diane Guerrero) can make flowers grow at will, Dolores (Adassa) has super hearing abilities, and Luisa (Jessica Darrow) has super strength. Mirabel is the only one in her family who doesn’t possess a special gift. These gifts were bestowed upon the Madrigal’s by a candle and they’re supposed to use these gifts to help the villagers.
When it’s Mirabel’s turn to find out what her gift will be, the magic falters and she is left without one. One day the magical house begins to crumble and Mirabel vows to save it, even though her family members are seemingly unaware of the literal cracks in the walls. Things go sideways and Mirabel is the only one who can figure out the mystery of why the house and the family’s magic is waning.
Encanto has all of the usual Disney elements – slick animation, a heartwarming message, and catchy songs. Lin Manuel-Miranda lends his songwriting talents to the movie and you can hear his influence right away in the first number. The songs all cram a million words into one verse with people singing so fast it’s hard to catch exactly what they’re saying. The songs are undoubtedly very good and I thoroughly enjoyed all of them. I also loved the visual elements of Encanto. The blazing colors were amazing to watch on screen and you felt truly immersed in the world of Encanto and the Madrigals.
Encanto has gotten a ton of buzz this year, but something felt like it was missing. The storyline and emotional connection didn’t feel as powerful as some of Disney’s previous movies. I’m usually incredibly moved by Disney’s animated films but Encanto fell short for me. It wasn’t nearly as memorable as some of the other animated films this year, even ones from Disney (like Luca and Raya and the Last Dragon). The wonderful animation and extremely catchy songs almost make up for the lackluster emotional punch at the end, but not quite.
You’ll like this movie if:
1. You enjoy Lin Manuel-Miranda’s songwriting style
2. You like stories infused with magic
3. You like stories about the importance of family and belonging
