In 2025, Disney is set to return to the vibrant and colorful world of Coco with the long-awaited sequel, Coco 2. The original film, released in 2017, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its breathtaking animation, emotional storytelling, and exploration of family, tradition, and the afterlife. Coco won numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and quickly became a beloved classic. Now, with the upcoming release of Coco 2, fans are eagerly anticipating a new chapter in Miguel Rivera’s journey through the Land of the Dead, and a deeper exploration of the rich culture and themes introduced in the first film.
COCO 2 picks up a few years after the events of the first movie, where Miguel Rivera (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez) had reconnected with his great-great-grandfather, Ernesto de la Cruz, and uncovered the truth about his family’s musical past. The sequel continues Miguel’s musical journey, but now, with his family fully supportive of his passion for music, Miguel has become a rising star in his town of Santa Cecilia.
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However, as Miguel’s career begins to take off, he finds himself pulled back into the mystical world of the Land of the Dead when an unexpected event occurs. This time, the stakes are even higher, as Miguel is called upon to help a lost soul find their way back to their family—a journey that takes him deeper into the heart of the afterlife than ever before.
In COCO 2, Miguel’s bond with his ancestors continues to be a central theme, and the sequel introduces a host of new characters, both in the Land of the Dead and on the living side. One of the most exciting new characters is Isabella, a young woman from the Land of the Dead who has been separated from her family for generations. She seeks Miguel’s help to uncover her own family history and to reconnect with her loved ones. Along the way, Isabella forms a deep friendship with Miguel and his family, and together they embark on an adventure that uncovers long-buried secrets and forgotten memories.
The film also explores the role of Mama Imelda (voiced by Alanna Ubach) and Papa Julio (voiced by Jaime Camil) in Miguel’s life, as they work together to protect their family’s legacy and guide Miguel through the complexities of both his musical dreams and his deep familial ties. The sequel will likely highlight the dynamic between generations, showing the importance of preserving family traditions while embracing new paths forward.
At its core, COCO 2 continues the original film’s exploration of memory, legacy, and the significance of family. The Land of the Dead is a realm that exists to honor the memories of loved ones who have passed, and the sequel delves deeper into the ways in which people are remembered and how those memories shape future generations.
In the first film, Miguel learned the importance of remembering his ancestors and understanding the role they play in his life. In COCO 2, the focus shifts to how memories live on through the stories we tell, the music we make, and the ways we pass on our traditions. It also tackles the theme of how we move forward in life while honoring the past—a message that resonates strongly with Miguel as he navigates his growing musical career and his place within the family.
The musical element of COCO 2 is sure to play a significant role, with several new songs likely to become the next anthems of the Disney music catalog. The film’s vibrant score, blending traditional Mexican music with new influences, will continue to provide a powerful emotional backdrop for the story.
As expected from a Pixar film, COCO 2 promises to be a visual feast. The world of the Land of the Dead will be even more stunningly realized, with intricate details, glowing marigold petals, and elaborate altars that reflect the richness of Mexican culture. The film will also explore new regions of the afterlife, expanding on the colorful and imaginative world introduced in the first film.
The animation will likely continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, with beautifully rendered landscapes, intricate character designs, and breathtaking sequences that blend the surreal with the heartfelt. From the vibrant streets of Santa Cecilia to the glowing corridors of the Land of the Dead, every frame of COCO 2 is expected to be filled with beauty and meaning.