Exploring the Essence of Encanto: Unraveling What Culture is in this Animated Movie
Disney’s latest animated movie, Encanto, has taken the world by storm. Directed by Byron Howard and Jared Bush, the movie is set in Colombia and tells the story of the Madrigal family, who live in a magical house called Encanto. Every member of the family has a special power except for Mirabel, who sets out on a journey to save Encanto from losing its magic.
The movie has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Colombian culture, family values, and magical realism. In this blog post, we will explore the essence of Encanto and unravel what culture truly means in this animated masterpiece.
Culture in Encanto: A Celebration of Diversity
Encanto is a celebration of diversity, and the movie portrays the Madrigal family as a representation of Colombian culture. The family members have different skin tones, hair textures, and body shapes, reflecting the country’s diverse population. The movie showcases Colombia’s vibrant music, dancing, and colorful landscapes, providing viewers with a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The songs in Encanto are incredibly catchy and upbeat, borrowing from a variety of Latin American musical genres. The movie’s musical numbers include cumbia, salsa, reggaeton, and ballads, showcasing the diversity of Colombian music. The lyrics are in both English and Spanish, highlighting Colombia’s bilingualism and the importance of both languages in Colombian culture.
Family and Community in Encanto
Encanto places great importance on family and community, portraying them as the backbone of Colombian culture. The Madrigal family is depicted as a tight-knit unit that supports one another through thick and thin. The movie highlights the importance of family traditions, including mealtime, family parties, and family stories. These traditions provide a sense of continuity and connection to past generations, highlighting the importance of heritage in Colombian culture.
Moreover, the movie emphasizes the importance of community in Colombian culture. The Madrigal family is depicted as a community that supports one another, lending a helping hand when needed. This portrayal of community is especially relevant in the Colombian context, where communities have a strong sense of belonging and solidarity.
The Magic of Encanto
Encanto is not just a magical house; it’s a metaphor for the magic of Colombian culture. The movie portrays Colombia’s magical realism, a literary genre in which magical elements are woven into everyday life. The flying river, talking animals, and living house are all elements of magical realism that help showcase the beauty of Colombia’s folklore and mythology.
The magic of Encanto extends beyond the magical elements. It lies in the way the movie portrays family, community, and culture. Encanto highlights the power of storytelling and the importance of holding onto traditions. It emphasizes the value of diversity and the need to celebrate different cultures. Encanto is a movie that celebrates life, love, and family, showcasing Colombia’s rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Encanto is more than just an animated movie; it’s a celebration of Colombian culture. It showcases the diversity, family and community values, and magical realism of Colombian culture, providing viewers with a glimpse into the beauty of Colombia’s heritage. Encanto serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating diversity, embracing one’s culture, and cherishing family and community.
