Opened: November 24, 2021

Directed by: Jared Bush & Byron Howard

Starring: Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, John Leguizamo, Mauro Castillo, Jessica Darrow, Angie Cepeda, Carolina Gaitán, Diane Guerrero, Wilmer Valderrama, Rhenzy Feliz, Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Adassa, Maluma, Alan Tudyk, Noemi Josefina Flores & Olga Merediz

Showing that sometimes the villain in your story can be the decades of familial grief and expectations, Encanto is one of Disney’s most beautifully told stories to date.

The Madrigal family lives together in their casita, which grants them magical powers at the age of five. However, Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz) never received her powers and is hurting inside, despite putting on a strong face. When the family’s casita stars breaking and the magic begins fading, Mirabel takes it upon herself to save the family.

With original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Encanto has a sound in it not heard in any other Disney film. It gives it a modern feel, while also containing some deep lyrics that nod toward unseen depression and anxiety. Combine that with great vocals and jaw-dropping animation, and it’s pretty perfect.

Final say: Encanto is enchanting. ★★★★★