Is Encanto the New Standard for Disney Musicals?
🌎Encanto explores non-European culture in a celebratory and authentic way
There are hints at the social unrest Columbia has experienced (Pedro and Alma having to their home because of violent conflict). But more importantly, it celebrates the diversity of the people and surroundings of an oft-overlooked, even villainized South American country.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Encanto centers its themes on the complexities of familial relationships
We feel Disney is at its best when it is focusing on families. When Disney anchors their stories with strong and positive family dynamics or themes, they create content for their primary audiences that resonates powerfully.
🎼Encanto is filled with music that is memorable, emotional and also carries the storytelling forward in a fun and unique way that fits the culture it is exploring
We don’t know enough about the logistics of music to say what is done right in the nuts and bolts of Lin Manuel Miranda’s songs. But Encanto feels like the charm of old Disney musical storytelling meets the freshness of a new cultural experience. He married the two perfectly.
Enjoy this episode? We have good news! Subscribe for extended and additional Neverland Files episodes!
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theneverlandfiles.substack.com/subscribe