The animated film “Coco” by Pixar is more than just a colorful celebration of Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead; it’s an exploration of themes deeply resonant with Catholic teachings—memory, legacy, and familial bonds. For Catholic families, “Coco” provides a unique opportunity to discuss the nature of grief and the importance of remembering our loved ones in light of our faith.

“Coco” tells the story of Miguel, a young boy whose love for music leads him on an unexpected journey to the Land of the Dead. Here, he not only seeks his great-great-grandfather’s blessings to play music but also discovers family secrets. The film beautifully intertwines this personal journey with the communal celebration of Día de los Muertos, a time when families remember those who have passed and invite their spirits back into their lives for a day.

The Catholic faith has a rich tradition of remembering and praying for the souls of the departed. Similar to the ofrendas seen in “Coco,” Catholics often create spaces in their homes with photos of deceased loved ones, accompanied by candles and flowers. These acts serve as a reminder of the communion of saints and the belief that our relationships with those who have passed continue beyond death.

The film’s focus on the power of memory aligns closely with the Catholic understanding of eternal life. In “Coco,” the dead live on in the Land of the Dead as long as they are remembered by the living. This mirrors the Christian hope in the resurrection and the lasting impact of each person’s life and love.

“Coco” offers a gentle way to introduce children to the concepts of death and eternal life. Parents can use the story to discuss how Catholics view death not as an end, but as a transition to a new form of everlasting life with God. It’s a chance to explain the significance of All Souls’ Day and how it reflects our beliefs in praying for and remembering the dead.

Questions for discussion might include:

• How do we as Catholics remember and honor those who have passed?
• Why is it important to pray for the dead?
• How can the story of Miguel help us understand our feelings when we miss someone who has died?

Miguel’s emotional journey in “Coco” can help children understand that their feelings of sadness, confusion, or even joy when remembering lost loved ones are natural and acceptable. This can be an important lesson in emotional expression and the healing process.

The film also suggests creative outlets like music and storytelling as ways to cope with and process grief. For Catholic families, these activities can be complemented with prayer, attending Mass, or participating in community services, which are powerful ways to find comfort and peace.

“Coco” serves as a beautiful, engaging tool for Catholic families to explore themes of grief and memory. It encourages open discussions about death within the context of faith, reinforcing the message that through our prayers and memories, love transcends even death. This movie not only entertains but also enriches our understanding of what it means to remember and honor those who have gone before us in the light of eternal love.

Written By: Paige Muttillo | Marketing Manager | Catholic Cemeteries Association