Brandon’s Movie Review for:

Encanto

Streaming now on Disney+

Admittedly, I enjoy the escapism that is presented by entertainment that is made for kids, because honestly, I’m a child at heart.  Every once in a while I like to pop in movies like The Goonies, Ghostbusters 1 & 2 and even FernGully from time to time.  The last Disney movie that really “enchanted” me was Moana, which featured Dwayne Johnson as Maui and the soundtrack was composed by the brilliantly talented Lin Manuel-Miranda.  Each song was an instant ear worm.  Well, Disney and Lin Manuel-Miranda have done it again with their version of a film in the style of X-Men or ensemble cast of Marvel superheroes.  Despite Covid’s effects of going to the movies in traditional fashion, Encanto has slowly become a box office smash.  Along with the amazing storytelling and breathtaking animation, the soundtrack has been deeply rooted in my brain and I find myself humming the melodies at all times of the day.  Disney really tapped into its classic style of animation while providing a modern spin on character development.  While there are themes of magic and whimsy that is typical of a Disney movie, Encanto also explores themes of family dynamics, mental health awareness to heavier themes like generational trauma and the suffering of refugees.  Trust me, it’s fun for the whole family.  I bet you money that you’ll be hooked by the music alone from the beginning.  You’ll suffer being ear-wormed by the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and you won’t even be mad about it.  Bravo, Disney and Lin Manuel-Miranda.  That reminds me, I still have to watch Hamilton…

Here’s a rundown of Encanto:

The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift — every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.