Disney’s Encanto (2021) is a vibrant animated film that dives deep into the heart of family and individual purpose. Set in a magical Colombian village, the story follows the Madrigal family, who each possess unique powers gifted by their enchanted house, Casita, and a miraculous candle that protects them. Every Madrigal, from superhuman strength to the ability to talk to animals, is tasked with serving their community, except for Mirabel, the only one without a magical gift. Though Mirabel is kind, spirited, and loving, she often feels like an outsider within her family. When the magic surrounding the Madrigals begins to weaken, it’s Mirabel who steps up, uncovering secrets and tensions within her family and ultimately discovering that sometimes the greatest gifts aren’t magical powers but a strong, loving heart.
A Visual Feast and a Love Letter to Colombian Culture
One of the most immediately striking elements of Encanto is its colorful, visually rich design. The movie captures the essence of Colombian landscapes and traditions, with stunning attention to detail. The magical home of the Madrigals, Casita, is a character in itself—playful, expressive, and a reflection of the family’s personality. From the intricate patterns of the tiles to the sprawling flowers that bloom at Isabela’s touch, the film’s world feels both grounded and fantastical, beautifully mirroring Colombia’s rich culture and natural beauty.
The directors and animators clearly took great care in researching and respectfully portraying Colombian customs, architecture, clothing, and music, creating an authentic backdrop that enhances the story’s emotional impact. The way Encanto brings these elements to life through vibrant colors and visual storytelling is breathtaking. It’s a film that doesn’t just tell you about a magical family in Colombia—it immerses you in it, making you feel like a part of their world.
Mirabel: A Different Kind of Heroine
Mirabel, voiced by Stephanie Beatriz, is a protagonist unlike many in Disney’s past. She doesn’t have magical powers or heroic physical abilities. Instead, she has a deep love for her family and a strong sense of who she is, even though she often feels overshadowed by her siblings and cousins. Mirabel’s journey of self-acceptance and her quest to understand her family’s struggles is profoundly relatable. Her determination to help, even without a “gift,” makes her a compelling character and a positive role model for anyone who has ever felt ordinary in a world that celebrates the extraordinary.
What’s refreshing about Mirabel is that her strength comes from her empathy and intelligence. Her bravery is emotional rather than physical, and she displays a resilience that’s rooted in her love for her family. Mirabel’s struggles echo the experiences of many who feel pressure to live up to their family’s expectations, and her journey serves as a reminder that self-worth isn’t defined by external achievements or comparisons.
The Complexity and Flaws of Family
Encanto delves into family dynamics in a way that’s rare for a Disney film, exploring the expectations, pressures, and hidden struggles that can exist within close-knit families. The Madrigal family is multi-generational and diverse, with each member facing unique pressures related to their powers. The matriarch, Abuela Alma, harbors a deep-seated fear of losing the family’s miracle, leading her to place enormous expectations on her children and grandchildren to protect the family’s legacy.
One of the film’s strongest points is its exploration of generational trauma and the burden of expectations. Each family member’s gift symbolizes the role or “burden” they carry for the family—Luisa’s strength, Isabela’s perfection, Bruno’s estrangement—and through Mirabel, the film questions these roles and how they affect individual happiness and self-worth. It’s a refreshing take on family relationships, showcasing that even in loving families, misunderstandings and unspoken expectations can cause harm. Encanto encourages honest communication and empathy within families, recognizing that healing often requires addressing deep-rooted issues.
The Heartfelt and Uplifting Soundtrack
The music in Encanto, led by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is as integral to the story as the animation and characters. Each song is tailored to the personality of the character singing it, bringing their struggles, desires, and relationships to life. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” is a playful yet emotionally charged song that encapsulates the family’s tension around Bruno, the uncle whose gift of foresight led him to be misunderstood and shunned. The song is catchy, layered, and full of character interactions that subtly reveal the family’s dynamics.
“Surface Pressure,” sung by Luisa, perfectly captures the burden of being the family’s pillar of strength. Luisa’s song reflects her struggles with carrying everyone’s expectations and the toll it takes on her emotionally. In contrast, “What Else Can I Do?” by Isabela explores the idea of breaking free from perfection, as Isabela realizes that her value doesn’t lie in fulfilling others’ visions of her but in her own self-expression. The soundtrack doesn’t just entertain; it serves as a window into each character’s psyche, helping to deepen our understanding of their roles within the family.
A Story About Self-Acceptance and Inner Strength
One of the most powerful messages in Encanto is that worth isn’t defined by external accomplishments or by meeting others’ expectations. For Mirabel, who lacks a magical gift, finding her place within the Madrigal family is a journey of self-discovery. Her realization that her value isn’t diminished by her lack of powers is incredibly affirming. It’s a reminder that everyone has something unique to offer, and that often, the qualities we take for granted—compassion, empathy, resilience—are the ones that matter most.
The film’s climax, where the family comes together after acknowledging their individual struggles and Abuela’s fears, is beautifully executed. The rebuilding of Casita becomes a symbol of healing and unity, as the family learns to accept one another beyond their gifts and roles. Mirabel’s journey ultimately brings the family closer, helping each member feel valued for who they are, rather than for what they can do.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Diversity, Love, and Identity
In the end, Encanto is more than just a movie about magic; it’s a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and love. Through Mirabel and the Madrigals, Encanto sends a message that families are strongest when they accept each member’s uniqueness and show compassion for each other’s struggles. The film is a celebration of diversity, not only in terms of culture but also in the varied roles and personalities within a family.
The message of Encanto resonates deeply, especially for those who have felt pressure to conform to familial or societal expectations. It’s a story that speaks to people of all ages, encouraging viewers to embrace their individuality and value the support of those around them. In a world that often values perfection and achievement, Encanto reminds us that true strength lies in compassion, understanding, and self-acceptance. It’s a movie with a message that’s as magical as its world—a reminder to cherish the people we love and to celebrate what makes us unique.
