Walt Disney Animation Studio's 60th film Encanto is another classic!
We are introduced to the Madrigal family, who live in a magical home that bestows upon each of them a magical gift when they become of age. That is, everyone but for Maribel, who is constantly reminded that gifts are of utmost importance in the family. The lack of her gift makes Maribel feel worthless. But as the house begins to lose its magic, we also see each family members facade start to crack and fall apart. In order to try to save the house, the magic and her family, Maribel sets out to find Bruno, the black sheep of the family, who can see the future and his vision may tear the family apart or bring it back together.
Encanto continues Disney's excellence in embracing family and friendship. The animation is gorgeous and the colors explode off the screen while the memorable songs will have you singing for days. We are also reminded that while families don't always get along, in the end, they will always be there for one another.
Video
The streaming 4K video is excellent. Details are superb from clothing to the house itself. Colors pop off the screen. Just a perfect video presentation.
Audio
The 5.1 audio mix is superb offering pinpoint clarity of audio effects, crystal clear dialogue and the score and songs envelope you.
Bonus Features*
- Sing Along with the Movie – Sing along with your favorite songs with on-screen lyrics as you watch the movie.
- Familia Lo Es Todo – Members of the Disney Animation “Familia” cultural trust share real-life experiences in this exploration of the lovable Madrigal family members. We learn what inspired each character, and about how the artists’ designs bring realism to their personalities.
- Discover Colombia – The filmmaking team discusses how the multiple cultures, biodiversity and vibrant colors of Colombia are expressed in Encanto. They describe how satisfying it was to fully celebrate this beautiful country and support the theme of magical realism.
- A Journey Through Music – The filmmakers invite us to discover how each character came to be represented musically. We follow the creation of Encanto’s Colombian-inspired music, featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songs and Germaine Franco’s score, from concept to final recording.
- Let’s Talk About Bruno – Learn how the song “We Don't Talk About Bruno,” with its intriguing undertones, was created. Discover the extensive collaboration between Lin-Manuel Miranda, choreographer Jamal Sims, the voice cast and animators in bringing it to the screen.
- Our Casita – La Casa Madrigal is alive with magic, and its emotional state is affected by other family members. From its colorful doors to its fine stonework, the magical house was designed using principles of Colombian tradition.
- Outtakes – From the thrill of “nailing” a take in the presence of an entertainment industry icon to the hilarity of losing a wrestling match with tongue-twisting dialogue, join the cast for some good-natured fun from behind the microphone.
- Journey to Colombia – With the help of the Colombian Cultural Trust, a dedicated team of consultants, the filmmakers of Encanto embark on a journey of discovery to learn more about Colombia and how best to reflect the country’s cultures and environments on the big screen.
- An Introduction to Far From the Tree – Writer and director Natalie Nourigat introduces the Walt Disney Animation Studios short film Far From the Tree.
- Far From the Tree – Parenting is hard, especially when curiosity tugs at a young raccoon whose parent tries to keep them both safe. In the Walt Disney Animation Studios short Far From the Tree, this youngster learns to live with an open heart… even as danger lurks.
- Deleted Scenes
- Introduction – Heads of Story Jason Hand and Nancy Kruse present four scenes not seen in the film’s release, but were part of the journey toward the final version of the story.
- Chores! – Abuela has sent most of the family to town on various assignments that bring them acclaim, while Mirabel, her father and uncle are asked to clean the house.
- Another Way In – Mirabel attempts to understand a clue found in her uncle’s vision. To make this happen, she must go through Antonio’s room, where adventures unfold.
- Isabela Goes Into the Woods – When Mirabel sees her sister head for apparent danger in the woods, she races to save her, and encounters the surprise of a lifetime!
- Back to the Mural – Feeling rejected, Mirabel goes back to town. Abuela seeks her out and reveals a part of her personality that her granddaughter has never seen.
- Song Selection – Jump to your favorite musical moments, with on-screen lyrics.
o The Family Madrigal
o Colombia, Mi Encanto
o Waiting on a Miracle
o Surface Pressure
o We Don’t Talk About Bruno
o What Else Can I Do
o Dos Oruguitas
o All of You
Conclusion:
Encanto is an instant classic full of warmth and thoughfulness that we have come to expect from Disney. A family film about family filled with gorgeous animation, solid music and wonderful bonus features makes Encanto a must have in your collection.
Encanto is available now on digital and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-Ray and DVD February 8th.
*disclaimer: a digital copy was provided to me by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for review purposes but all of the opinions are strictly mine*
