Meaning Behind Upcoming Film ‘Encanto’

Disney’s upcoming movie Encanto is much more than just a movie according to John Leguizamo, the actor voicing Bruno in the film.

About ‘Encanto’

Set in Colombia, the story follows the Madrigal family who happen to all be blessed with unique gifts. These gifts come from the magic that surrounds Encanto, the place in which the family lives. Each member of the family exhibit powers like talking to animals and super strength. However, Mirabel is the only member of the family without a gift. With Encanto in danger of losing its magic, topics of real and magical nature are brought to light.

Leguizamo shared his connection to the film. “The fact that it was an all-Latinx Disney movie,” said Leguizamo. “Disney’s 60th movie is all Latinx. I mean, I never thought I’d see this in my lifetime. We’re the oldest ethnic group in America, the largest ethnic group in America. We’re virtually absent everywhere. But not tonight. Not tonight.”

The ‘Encanto’ Premiere

The green and purple carpet premiere transformed into their own version of “Encanto’s” Colombia on Hollywood Boulevard at the El Capitan Theatre. The event took place Nov. 4 and allowed cast, crew and families to walk the carpet while posing in front of the film’s posters. With special meaning behind radiating the joys of celebrating family and Colombia, this Disney movie will be like no other.

More of About the Film’s Meaning

“We tried to actually take inspiration from a lot what our friends expressed to us, which is that Colombia has a history of internal displacement,” said Chase Castro Smith, writer and co-director of the film. “That is something that is a part of our movie. It’s a really foundational piece of the family’s history. So, we wanted to make it sort of emotional and for all ages, but it’s a reality in this film and for this family that we wanted to include.”

Furthermore, Germaine Franco become the first female composer to land an animated Disney film. She expressed her excitement to Variety. “I didn’t get here by myself. I had a lot of great teachers and a lot of great supporters. What I wanted to convey in the film is the voice of Latin American women. Latin American woman have this incredible voice. I can only speak for myself, but I wanted Latin American women to feel proud. And Latin American people love rhythm. So I did my best to give motion but to also have that spirit of enjoying life.”

Encanto will be released in theaters Nov. 24. In the meantime, check out the trailer below!