In general my knowledge of Mexican culture is minimal, especially since I live in Europe. The things I do know are usually from American shows and movies, but it isn’t much. The Book of Life though is a nice introduction though to a part of the culture.
The book from the title can be found in a museum and is introduced when a couple children are visiting. Besides the book there are several wooden dolls, which all play a part in the stories that are in the book. The person leading the children around decides to read them a story, which is what this movie is about. The gods of two worlds, one in which the dead have been forgotten and the other one where they are still remembered, make a bet about what will happen to three children they see playing around. Those are Manolo, Maria and Joaquin. The boys are both in love with Maria and the gods make a bet which one of them will win her heart. Manolo loves music a lot, but his father insists he should become a bullfighter, Joaquin is an invincible warrior who makes the hearts of women beat a lot faster. Who will “win”?
The thing which makes THe Book of Life such an enjoyable film is that it looks wonderful. The colours really stand out and the design of the characters (all made from wood) gives them a unqiue look. Besides that the story isn’t always predictable and goes into unexpected directions. Which are things I normally don’t expect an animated movie to do. With its unique look, different setting, funny moments and various surprises it makes for a very good animated movie.
The look of this film reminded me a lot of The Boxtrolls, for its intricacies and detail. I must get around to watching this soon. Nice review, my friend.
I found this very enjoyable and the look is fantastic. I did find it predictable, though, as I never doubted the outcome. It still managed to be fun along the way.