The highly anticipated Disney movie for the Christmas season did not disappoint. “Coco” is a heartfelt, humorous, family movie that is sure to remind anyone of what truly matters in life – family.

As a Mexican-American woman, I anticipated the release of “Coco” because I felt as if this were the first Disney movie filled with half of my family’s culture. From Spanglish to the grandma’s disciplinary ways, the movie warmed my heart and made me miss my own family.

While I was not raised in Mexico like Miguel and his family, my grandfather moved to Michigan from Texas and has always instilled in us grandchildren the importance of our culture. “Coco” allowed me to have a greater view of a culture that my grandpa grew up in.

“Coco” is a tale of a young boy, Miguel, and his desire to be just like his favorite singer, Ernesto de La Cruz. Miguel’s love for music proves to be ultimately perplexing for him, as his family are strong opponents of all things musical. However, Miguel is persistent toward his dream, and ends up in the Land of the Dead during the Mexican holiday “Día de Los Muertos.”

With the help of a scheming friend, Miguel must find his way out of the Land of the Dead before sunrise of the next day – or he would spend eternity alongside his ancestors.

The fun and colorful film pulls viewers in as Miguel must get permission from his music-hating ancestors to return home. He must find loopholes through the system so that he can return home while still being allowed to play his beloved music.

Pixar’s detailed process of the creation of “Coco” sparked my interest from the beginning. Viewers can clearly see the detail and thought put into the cultural representation that “Coco” brings to life. The celebration of life that occurs in Mexican culture is easy to understand when viewing the movie.

For the first time in my life, I felt like I truly connected with a Disney film. I, of course, related to Disney movies as a child, as I desired to be a Disney princess at times, but this film was different. When I heard the Spanglish and music throughout the film, I was reminded of how it feels to be around my grandfather during the holidays.

Beyond Mexican culture, “Coco” is an inclusive movie for many Hispanic families. The family-centric theme of the film is something that most Hispanics can relate to, especially during the holiday season. It’s a heart-warming movie that reminds its viewers of the importance of remaining close to family and supporting one another through all the trials in life.