4 out of 5 stars
There are few artists with more exposure than Lin-Manuel Miranda (Hamilton: An American Musical) across the world. With the success of his world-renowned musical and multiple projects in the pipeline, the multi-talented composer seems to be everywhere. Especially on Netflix, where he will be having his directorial debut with Tick, Tick… Boom, wrote new songs for and stars in the first musical from Sony Pictures Animation called Vivo.
In this animated adventure in Cuba, audiences are introduced to the kinkajou named Vivo (Miranda). This uniquely talented tropical mammal has developed his musical abilities by working on the streets of Havana with his street-performing owner Andrés Hernández (Juan de Marcos González). They have established themselves within the community over the years and enjoy entertaining tourists as they travel through the magical streets of their beloved city. Until Andrés receives a letter from his long-lost love, Marta Sandoval (Gloria Estefan). She has established her musical career in the United States and wants to ask her former musical collaborator to join her at her final performance.
Even though Vivo initially has his reservations, he finally agrees to join his friend on the trip to Miami. Especially since Andrés has a song he wrote for Marta decades earlier that he hopes to share with her. When tragedy strikes before their journey across the Caribbean, Vivo is left to deliver his owner’s composition to the world-renowned singer. He is left with only one option: to partner with Andrés’ grand-niece Gabi Hernández (Ynairaly Simo) to get to Florida. This unlikely partnership leads them on an unexpected trip across the state and the Everglades to deliver the song to Marta before performing her final concert.
What is noticeable from the beginning is that despite being a straightforward storyline, the music makes this film stand out. Miranda’s tunes manage to connect each scene with a magical finesse that has become synonymous with the composer. Combining Cuba's cultural elements with modern twists will draw viewers into this world where animals sing and dance. Which all makes sense within the simplicity of this tale of love, grief and friendship.
Croods director, Kirk DeMicco, allows the music space to breathe while bringing people along on this unbelievable quest. He manages to get wonderful performances from the exceptionally talented cast while supporting it with a mixture of new and classic animated techniques. Even though some of the aspects of the screenplay contain mature themes, the younger viewer will stay engaged. Vivo is an enchanting option for families to enjoy together, and will have everyone playing to the beat of a different drum by the end.
What should parents know about Vivo? One refreshing aspect of this animated musical Cuban excursion is that there are no hidden agendas, except to encourage families to enjoy a musical together. While parents should know that this film does deal with death and grief extensively, this story arc is not scary, but it does add a somber tone to some of the narratives that might need to be addressed with children. Yet, this does not detract from the enjoyable and entertaining elements of this musical adventure.
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
Who knows, it might lead your family to get the soundtrack and sing along in the car as you head out on your next road trip. Another potential touchpoint with your kids, ask them why they like the music they love so much.
Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Psalm 95:1
