Review: Encanto

When Encanto first hit theaters about a year ago, I heard a lot about it from friends and family. Most people said they appreciated it and liked the story line – and no one would talk about Bruno, no matter how much I asked. A few were more skeptical, saying it was a little odd for their tastes and they didn’t really like it.

So when my sibling got it from the library, I decided it was a great time to sit down and watch it – and tell you all what I thought! (Yes. I wrote a review on a movie after only seeing it once. I’m sorry. XD)

Without further ado, may I present my review of Encanto!

Encanto by Disney

Encanto tells the tale of an extraordinary Colombian family, the Madrigals, who live in a magical house hidden in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift, from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one: Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope.

(You can watch the trailer here. ;))

Star Rating

4.5 out of 5 stars

Content

Pros:

1. Sexual–we see a married couple kiss, and there’s a tad of romance between Isabella and a village guy, but other than that, all clear!

2. Language–none.

3. Violence–also none. There’s one song (Surface Pressure, one of my favorites apart from the unicorn donkeys in the clouds (anyone think that part had something to do with drugs? XD)) that might be a bit intense for sensitive younger kids, but it should be fine.

Cons:

1. Spiritual–the one thing that bugged me about Encanto was how Bruno’s power works. In order to have a vision, he needs to make a circle on the ground with sand, then sit in it cross-legged like he’s meditating. It’s definitely a little odd and has some implications to it that give me the willies. You might want to do some research into the reason behind that and be aware of it when showing this movie to a younger audience. There is also a moment where some characters talk to anscestors like they’re praying to them.

2. Substance abuse–one mention of strong drinks causing hallucinations.

Neutral:

1. Magic–considering this whole story revolves around magic, I would hope there’d be a little. XD We see that the casita is magical and gets its powers from a candle that was gifted to Abuela right after she lost her husband. Not quite sure where the candle gets its power, but it is called a miracle. Typical Disney stuff!

Messages

Pros:

1. Everyone is special (Genesis 1:28-31)

2. Family is incredibly important (and other family themes like every member of the family has an important role, protect your family at all costs, and love your family.) (look up how many times the Bible just mentions family and you’ll see my point XD)

3. Together is stronger (Ecclesiastes 4:12)

4. You’re more than just your gifts (Again, Genesis 1:28-31)

5. Nobody is perfect (Romans 3:23)

Cons:

1. None that I saw!! Way to go, Disney!

Neutral:

1. You are enough as you. The reason this is in neutral is because I only halfway agree with this statement. On the one hand, you are enough as you. Your unique talents, preferences, quirks… those were wired in you for a reason and purpose. On the other hand, you’re a fallen human being. You have flaws. You need to grow. And without God… you aren’t enough. You’re only part of what you were meant to be with a big, gaping, God-sized hole where the other part is supposed to be. So. Do with that what you will. XD

Morals

Pros:

1. Servanthood/seeking to serve (Mirabel and Louisa)

2. Determination (Mirabel)

3. Compassion (Mirabel)

4. Humility (Abuela (after a bit))

5. Loyalty (everyone)

6. Encouraging (Mirabel)

Cons:

1. Disrespect towards those put in authority over her (Mirabel)

Favorite Quotes

“Sometimes family weirdos just get a bad rap.”

“Stars don’t shine; they burn.”

Other

One, the animation in this movie is superb. I was sucked in purely by the vibrant colors. XDD Two, I loved the songs. The upbeat tempos for most of them were really catchy! Some of my favorites( besides Surface Pressure XD) were We Don’t Talk About Bruno and The Family Madrigal.) really appreciated how most of the characters tried to be strong, but learned that they can’t. Not alone. Especially Louisa and her arc. A lot of pressure is put on people these days to be strong, to say “I’m fine” when you aren’t, to carry the weight of the world and keep your lips sealed about your own struggles. Abuela expects these things from the members of the Madrigal family before she learns that that kind of pressure (*wink*) is actually damaging.

The Bible says to carry one another’s burdens. But in order to do that, we need to be open about ours. Christians, my brothers and sisters, we are a family. We need to start acting like one.

*exits soapbox XD*

And that’s a wrap! Have you seen Encanto? Why or why not? What did you think of it, if you have? Did I miss anything? What power of the Madrigal family would you most like to have? What one do you think you’d have? What were some of your favorite songs?

Until next time,

Take courage, pursue God, and smile while you still have teeth!! ^_^

~Joelle