(Movie for children / available on Netflix)
Description: Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart, embarks on an adventure that spans three fantastic worlds where he must face his greatest fears.
Bechdel Test: 8/10
Although the plot of this movie still is two guys fighting over a girl, throughout the film there are loads of comments and actions which show women as being intelligent and powerful. This movie is especially great for the specific reason that it shows women as being able to handle themselves in a very positive and blatant way which is comprehensible for children.
Character Development: 6.5/10
There isn't really much change to the characters throughout the movie apart from them learning the intended message of the film. Despite this the characters are still incredibly fun to watch and the little character development that there is, is the type that you knew would happen from the start but it is still sooooo satisfying to see.
Diversity of characters/Representation of Minorities: 8/10
This film does not outwardly include any LGBTQAI+ characters or anything similar, however, the entire plot is based on an old Mexican story which depicts certain aspects of their culture in a fun and digestible way for kids. (Within the first few minutes of the movie their is an explanation given for the day of the dead and why it is celebrated).
Acting Skills: N/A
It's an animated kids movie.
Visual Presentation: 10/10
The animation in this film is spectacular! meant to look like wooden dolls, each character is the perfect balance of 'believable' autonomy, and explosively alive characterization. The backgrounds, the colors, the beautifully crafted lighting, all come together to make this movie truly beautiful to watch, especially if you are someone interested in visual art/animation.
Story Line: 8.5/10
Fun and surprising, the first time I watched this film I thought it would be predictable and boring but I was happily surprised! This film breaks barriers that many other kid movies and shows do not, while still being entirely family friendly and heartwarming to watch.
Additional Comments:
I have pretty much been avoiding doing a review on any kids movies up until now as I am a huge dork for them and sometimes I just really need the promise of a happy ending. (P.S. Guess who just realized she could add GIFs)
Let me know what you think about this show and if there is anything you would like me to review next!
I've always wanted to watch this movie! It looks so cute and fun but i never knew if it was going to be any good or not. You blog is so helpful you give great reviews on tv and movies. Keep it up girlie :)
ReplyDeleteGuillermo del Toro is one of my favourite directors/producers but when I saw his name on this film I was confused because it's so far from anything else that he's done (Mama, Pan's Labyrinth, etc.). After reading your review, though, I might just have to give it a shot! Also, I love the GIFs. They add a lot of life to the blog post and they're fun to watch!
ReplyDeleteI found this movie very entertaining and absolutely agree that the visual presentation is excellent. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI remember seeing trailers for this movie in theaters but it really slipped under the radar upon release, I didn't even hear too many reviews about it. Usually I hold out for an animated feature I hear lots of hype about before I go and dish out the money to see it. For example, the last animated film I recall seeing in theaters was Disney's Inside Out (highly recommended). Also, it may be an animated film, but voice acting is still a profession that requires a considerable amount of skill to do well. Do you think there is a certain bias towards voice actors in modern times? I personally think they're very underrated and seem to only get recognition when it's Troy Baker doing anything.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you! Inside Out is a great movie AND voice actors are really unfortunately ignored a lot of the time. I'm someone who thinks it would be really interesting to be a professional voice actor as my career and even I completly skipped over thinking about judging this in the acting area! thanks for letting me know I will definitely fix that when I get the chance!!
DeleteI remember seeing trailers for this movie in theaters but it really slipped under the radar upon release, I didn't even hear too many reviews about it. Usually I hold out for an animated feature I hear lots of hype about before I go and dish out the money to see it. For example, the last animated film I recall seeing in theaters was Disney's Inside Out (highly recommended). Also, it may be an animated film, but voice acting is still a profession that requires a considerable amount of skill to do well. Do you think there is a certain bias towards voice actors in modern times? I personally think they're very underrated and seem to only get recognition when it's Troy Baker doing anything.
ReplyDelete