What is Encanto About? – Overview of an Intriguing Latinx Inspired Fairy Tale
One of the most exciting original animated films to be released this year is Encanto, a Spanish-language fairy tale inspired by Latinx culture. The movie is set to be released by Walt Disney Animation Studios in 2021 and stars Anthony Gonzalez, Isabella Merced, and one of the film’s original musical influences, the multi-Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny.
The movie follows a family of supernatural beings living in a magical city separated off from the world called Encanto. At the center of the story is young girl named Pinot, played by Isabella Merced, who has been chosen to lead the family to a magical destiny and discover her magical roots.
What happens in Encanto? What culture does the movie draw from? Let’s explore the elements that go into making this Latinx inspired fairy tale a magical experience for audiences.
The Story and Characters of Encanto
Encanto follows the story of 14-year old Pinot, a “bubbly, wide-eyed” girl who is the daughter of two magical parents. Pinot’s parents have been cursed by an evil sorceress, preventing them from ever aging or growing old. Pinot has the potential to undo this curse with the help of an enchanted egg and a mysterious blue seed, unlocking an ancient power the could change her family’s destiny.
The movie also stars Anthony Gonzalez as Mario, Pinot’s older brother and chauffeur, who is determined to keep his family safe and help them fulfill their destiny. Other characters featured in Encanto include the magical members of the family, stubborn abuelos, a mysterious criatura, friendly locals and a few hidden surprises.
In a recent interview with Variety, director Byron Howard described Encanto as “a movie about acceptance, embracing your life and finding the power within that you never knew was there.”
Exploring Latinx Culture in Encanto
The story of Encanto is deeply rooted in the elements of Latinx culture that make the region so vibrant and exciting. Howard has mentioned in interviews that the culture plays a major role in the movie, from the visual design to the music to the characters themselves.
The culture of Encanto is best described as a combination of cultures from countries like Colombia, Peru and Brazil, blended together with a modern sensibility. The movie features elements of Latinx art, music, dance and folklore, incorporating these cultural reference points into the story in organic ways.
According to Howard, one of the goals of the movie is to create a story that is “accessible and understandable to everybody but still has enough nods and little hints that those of us of Hispanic origin can see our culture in it.” The film has already been praised for its culturally authentic elements, with stars like Bad Bunny providing musical influence to the soundtrack.
Exploring themes of family, acceptance and empowerment, Encanto promises to be a charming and exciting addition to Disney’s 2021 lineup. With the help of an amazing cast, an exciting soundtrack and a story inspired by Latinx culture, this film promises to be a unique and captivating experience for audiences of any age.