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Dr. Mac Christian Movie Reviews: Coco (2017, Disney/Pixar)

Coco follows Miguel, a young boy from a Mexican family that banned music generations ago. Determined to become a musician, he accidentally crosses into the Land of the Dead on Día de los Muertos. With the help of skeleton relatives, Miguel discovers the truth about his family’s past and learns the power of memory, legacy, and love.

Day of the dead in Mexico for a Coco movie review. “A gorgeous story about family and music… wrapped in heavy doses of afterlife imagery parents need to weigh carefully.” 🎸 Quick Snapshot (Spoiler-Free) Coco follows Miguel, a young boy from a Mexican family that banned music generations ago. Determined to become a musician, he accidentally crosses into the Land of the Dead on Día de los Muertos. With the help of skeleton relatives, Miguel discovers the truth about his family’s past and learns the power of memory, legacy, and love. It’s Pixar-level stunning — vibrant colors, memorable songs (“Remember Me”), and tear-jerking storytelling. But Christian parents, you need to know what spiritual baggage comes along with the heart. 🗣️ Language & Profanity Almost spotless… almost. ✅ No strong profanity. ⚠️ Mild insults: “stupid,” “idiot,” “dumb.” ⚠️ A couple of “Oh my gods!” slipped in (problematic for reverence). 💡 Why it matters: Disney sells it as family-friendly, but even mild insults normalize disrespect in kids. 😬 Inappropriate or Questionable Content Here’s where parents really pause: Occult / Afterlife Imagery : Central theme is Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with characters worshipping ancestors, leaving offerings, and traveling through a spirit world of skeletons. Kids see ghosts, skeletons, and “spirit animals” guiding Miguel. Idolatry Concerns : Miguel is told he must be remembered and honored by the living to “stay alive” in the afterlife. This directly conflicts with biblical teaching about eternity. Scary Scenes : Skeletons crumble. Miguel faces being “forgotten” and disappearing forever. Villain poisons someone in flashback. Cultural Spirituality : While based on Mexican tradition, for Christian parents this is not just “culture,” it’s a spiritual worldview in conflict with Scripture. 💡 Why it matters: Kids don’t always separate “cultural fantasy” from theology. Without discussion, they may accept Coco’s afterlife as truth. ✝️ The Christian Parent Grading Scale Category Grade Explanation Biblical Truth & Redemption C Strong family and forgiveness themes. But afterlife theology contradicts the gospel. Suitability for Kids (7–12) B− Beautiful visuals, but scary skeletons and “forgotten forever” concepts can frighten younger kids. Language & Cleanliness B+ Only minor slips (“stupid,” “idiot,” “Oh my gods”). Family & Emotional Engagement A Powerful emotional core — family reconciliation and love are rich. Overall Christian Values C+ Redeemable with parental teaching, but spiritual content requires heavy clarification. 🛠️ The Filter Fix (VidAngel / Enjoy Movies Your Way) Mute insults & “Oh my gods.” Skip / mute ancestor worship scenes (ofrendas, prayers to the dead). Keep the songs, family story, and reconciliation arc. 💡 Parents, if you use filtering tools, you can reduce the occult exposure and focus on the family-centered heart of the story. 🧑‍⚕️ Dr. Mac’s Verdict 🚦 Yellow Light — Beautiful film with a dangerous theological undercurrent. Use filters, watch with your kids, and make it a teachable moment. Best Age Range : 9+ with parental conversation afterward. Family Discussion Starters : “What does the Bible say happens when we die? How is that different from Coco’s view?” (Hebrews 9:27) “Why is remembering family important — and how does God call us to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12) without ancestor worship?” “How does Miguel’s love for family reflect God’s design for legacy and forgiveness?” 🎤 Final Word from Dr. Mac Coco is stunningly crafted, musically rich, and emotionally moving. But it’s also spiritually confusing without guidance. With VidAngel or Enjoy Movies Your Way , you can trim the irreverent language and minimize ancestor-worship imagery. More importantly, with you as the shepherd, you can redirect kids from Coco’s “afterlife of remembrance” to the true eternal life found in Christ alone.

coco-movie-christian-review

Dr. Layne McDonald
Creative Pastor • Filmmaker • Musician • Author
Memphis, TN

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