Encanto (2021) - Movie Review

Encanto - An Enchanting Disney Film

Rating - 9/10

“We don’t talk about Bruno.”

    Disney’s Encanto is a vibrant and emotional celebration of family, identity, and acceptance. It stands apart from many of the studio’s recent offerings by leaning into personal conflict rather than a grand battle between good and evil. The story of the Madrigal family feels intimate and heartfelt, grounded in the everyday struggles of love, expectation, and the need to belong. From the first frame, the film bursts with color and movement, creating a world that feels alive and full of spirit.

    The animation is nothing short of stunning. Every frame is filled with rich textures, lush details, and expressive character work. The setting of the magical house, Casita, is a character in its own right, full of charm and wonder. Each room reflects the personality of its inhabitant, and the visual creativity used to bring those powers to life is endlessly imaginative. It is one of Disney’s most visually appealing films in years and a reminder of just how far the studio has come in blending artistry with technology.

    Lin-Manuel Miranda’s soundtrack is the heart of Encanto and one of its greatest achievements. Songs like “Surface Pressure” and “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” have become cultural touchstones for good reason. They are catchy, emotionally layered, and reveal character depth in ways dialogue alone cannot. The music effortlessly weaves Latin rhythms with Disney’s signature melodic storytelling, giving each song a sense of identity that feels both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.

    What makes Encanto particularly refreshing is its lack of a traditional villain. Instead, the tension comes from within the family itself. The film explores the cracks that form when expectations weigh too heavily on love, and it does so with sincerity and nuance. This choice allows for a more emotional and human story that still feels magical without relying on a central antagonist. It also helps make the resolution feel more genuine and earned rather than forced by formula.

    By the time the story reaches its conclusion, Encanto proves that Disney can evolve its storytelling while staying true to what makes its films special. It is funny, heartfelt, and full of life, with a message that resonates far beyond its colorful surface. The film celebrates imperfection and reminds audiences that magic is not always about powers or grandeur but about connection and understanding. In that sense, Encanto feels like a beautiful evolution of Disney’s legacy.

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