June 5, 2025

COCO 2: COCO IN LOVE (2025) – Official Review

“The heart of music beats stronger than ever as Coco embarks on a new journey to discover the power of love across time.”

After captivating audiences with its colorful celebration of family, music, and memory in COCO (2017), the beloved Pixar franchise returns with COCO 2: COCO IN LOVE, a heartwarming and vibrant continuation of Miguel’s journey through the Land of the Dead. This sequel dives deeper into the magic of music, tradition, and the bonds that unite families, all while introducing a fresh new layer: love. COCO 2 is a beautiful mix of joy, heartache, and inspiration that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you humming long after the credits roll.

Plot Summary

Picking up a few years after the events of the first film, COCO 2: COCO IN LOVE follows Miguel Rivera (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez), now a young adult, as he continues to pursue his dream of becoming a musician. His love for music and his deep connection to his family remain stronger than ever. However, Miguel finds himself facing a new emotional journey when he meets Lupita (voiced by Stephanie Beatriz), a talented singer who is as passionate about music as he is.

As Miguel and Lupita’s relationship deepens, Miguel finds himself struggling to balance his aspirations with his love for Lupita, especially when an unexpected turn of events takes him back to the Land of the Dead. There, he uncovers a mystery about his family’s past that leads him to the realization that true love and family can transcend even the boundaries between life and death.

The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and legacy, offering a fresh take on the importance of remembering those we love while cherishing the new connections we make. As Miguel embarks on this new chapter, the vibrant Land of the Dead comes alive once again with its magical creatures, spectacular visual landscapes, and unforgettable music.

Artistic Analysis

Visually, COCO 2 continues the stunning animation style that made its predecessor such a feast for the eyes. The world of the Land of the Dead is as enchanting and imaginative as ever, with lush, glowing streets, colorful decorations, and a rich atmosphere that makes every scene come alive. The vibrant colors and whimsical set designs are complemented by incredible attention to detail, making the film’s visuals feel like a celebration of Mexican culture, heritage, and family traditions.

The addition of new settings—particularly Lupita’s family’s home and the heart of the Land of the Dead, where Miguel must confront his family’s past—adds depth to the world. The emotional weight of the story is mirrored in the design choices, with some darker, more somber visuals representing the internal conflicts Miguel faces regarding love and family.

The music in COCO 2 is nothing short of extraordinary. While the first film’s iconic “Remember Me” tugged at heartstrings worldwide, COCO 2 introduces new songs that will leave an equally lasting impact. The soundtrack is a perfect blend of contemporary and traditional Mexican music, bringing fresh melodies while staying true to the series’ roots. With Lupita’s powerful voice and Miguel’s unwavering spirit, the music becomes the beating heart of the film, uniting the characters and the audience through shared emotions.

Performances

Anthony Gonzalez reprises his role as Miguel, bringing his character to life with the same warmth and passion that made Miguel so beloved in the first film. As Miguel grows older, Gonzalez seamlessly adapts his voice to capture the emotional complexity of a young man who is both on the brink of realizing his dreams and learning what it truly means to love and care for others.

Stephanie Beatriz shines as Lupita, bringing both vulnerability and strength to the character. Lupita’s story is one of personal discovery and sacrifice, and Beatriz’s performance captures the emotional depth of her journey. The chemistry between Miguel and Lupita is palpable, as the two navigate their blossoming love while balancing their ambitions and family duties. Their performances drive the heart of the movie, making their connection feel genuine and heartfelt.

The film also sees the return of Gael García Bernal as Héctor, Miguel’s deceased great-great-grandfather, who continues to offer wisdom and support from the Land of the Dead. Héctor’s humor and emotional depth bring the film’s family themes to life, with his character adding both comic relief and profound moments of reflection.

Emotional Impact

COCO 2 excels in its ability to balance lighthearted, joyous moments with deeply emotional scenes that explore the complexities of love and family. The central theme of the film—love’s power to transcend time, distance, and even death—is handled beautifully, creating a heartfelt narrative that will resonate with viewers of all ages.

Miguel’s journey of self-discovery is powerful, especially as he comes to terms with the responsibilities of love and the importance of remembering those who have passed. The film’s portrayal of the Rivera family’s legacy, and Miguel’s role in carrying that forward, adds emotional weight to every note sung and every scene shared.

The film’s depiction of love—both romantic and familial—is incredibly moving. Miguel’s evolving relationship with Lupita is not just about romance; it’s about learning how to give and receive love in ways that strengthen our connections with others. The emotional climaxes are earned through tender moments and deep character growth, leading to an ending that will leave many in tears.

Tone and Pacing

The pacing of COCO 2 is expertly balanced, with the story shifting between the lighthearted moments of Miguel and Lupita’s growing relationship and the more serious moments where Miguel must confront his family’s past. The film flows seamlessly between these two tones, ensuring that the audience stays emotionally invested throughout.

The pacing also allows for rich character development, giving the characters time to grow and evolve before the final emotional payoff. The film never feels rushed, allowing its emotional beats to resonate deeply.

Conclusion

COCO 2: COCO IN LOVE is a dazzling, heartfelt sequel that not only captures the magic of its predecessor but also expands the story with new, exciting layers. The film delivers an emotional punch with its exploration of love, family, and legacy, all set against a visually stunning backdrop and accompanied by an unforgettable soundtrack.

With Anthony Gonzalez and Stephanie Beatriz leading the charge, COCO 2 is both a celebration of the past and a tribute to the future, proving that the power of music, memory, and love is eternal. It’s a film that will leave audiences moved, inspired, and ready to dance to the rhythm of life, long after the final note fades away. Whether you’re a fan of the original or discovering the world of COCO for the first time, COCO 2: COCO IN LOVE is a must-watch, a beautiful testament to the power of love that transcends all boundaries.