Dec. 12, 2021
By Ana Gonzales
Staff Writer
If you are searching for a film the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Disney’s “Encanto.” Released in theaters on Nov. 24, this film depicts the adventures of la familia Madrigal, a Colombian family that receives magical powers from a candle that never extinguishes.
Each family member within the magical la casita (little house) possesses a special ability. Some of the family’s talents include shapeshifting, super strength and controlling the weather. Each bedroom in la casita is tailored to the person’s magical gift. There is one exception: Mirabel’s room.
15-year-old Mirabel tries her best to fit in because the townspeople depend on her family’s powers. Therefore, when Mirabel finds out she does not have any powers, she is criticized by her grandma.
Mirabel is reminiscent of Anna from “Frozen” because they are both young females who lack the magical powers possessed by their family members. However, Mirabel has been aware of her family’s magic her whole life, while Anna finds out when she is older.
“Encanto” is an inspiring and heartwarming film that is infused with Colombian culture through the food and colorful clothing.
As the film progresses, Mirabel notices the magic candle is growing dim and la casita is starting to show cracks, but no one else seems to recognize these changes. Therefore, Mirabel makes it her mission to preserve la casita, thus saving her family and the townspeople. In this sense, Mirabel resembles the character of Moana from the Disney movie with the same name. Like Moana, Mirabel is young, brave and on a mission to save her people.
“Encanto” is an inspiring and heartwarming film that is infused with Colombian culture through the food and colorful clothing. It also features “Colombia, Mi Encanto,” a catchy track in which Colombian singer Carlos Vives sings about his love for Colombia.
One of the most interesting characters in the movie is Bruno, Mirabel’s uncle whom she had never met because he left the house and family before she was born. Mirabel’s lack of familiarity with Bruno is a result of the family’s motto, “We don’t talk about Bruno.”
Bruno’s power is that he can see into the future. In hopes of solving the mystery of what is affecting the family’s magical abilities, Mirabel enters Bruno’s room where she sees a vision of her in front of a broken casita. The remainder of the movie focuses on Mirabel’s mission to restore the family’s magic.
“Encanto” communicates a meaningful message about the incredible power of trust and family, which is highlighted in the emotional climax of the film. During the holiday season, which is known for quality time with family, a movie like this is especially appropriate.
“Encanto” translates to mean “charm,” and that is a most appropriate title for this humorous, entertaining and captivating Disney hit.
