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Today marks the first day movie critics and publications are allowed to release their thoughts and reviews on Disney’s latest animated feature, Encanto. The film follows the Madrigals, a close-knit, extraordinary family living in hiding in the mountains of Colombia. Each member of the family possesses a unique gift except for the lead character, Mirabel, who — despite being superpower-less — must find the strength within herself to save her home and family. So far, this tale of fantasy and family is being met largely with positivity in many critics’ early Encanto reviews.
Encanto Reviews: Owen Gleiblerman (Variety)
In his review for Variety, Owen Gleiberman appeared to enjoy Encanto overall. Gleiberman calls the movie a “lush and lovely animated fairy tale, fueled by a tasty batch of Lin-Manuel Miranda songs”. Gleiberman even went as far as to say that Encanto is closer to a Pixar feature, rather than some of the other, lesser Disney animated movies. No star score or grade was given.
Encanto Reviews: Caroline Siede (AV Club)
In reviewing for AV Club, Caroline Siede also wrote mostly positively about Encanto. Siede said the movie “delivers a poignant message about not focusing so much on our own burdens that we miss the fact that others around us have them too”. She also praised the visuals and much of the storytelling. Siede’s largest complaint was that Encanto did not effectively serve its large cast. Ultimately, Siede stated that the movie has wonderful elements but does not quite tie them all together successfully. For a score, Siede gave Encanto a B.
Peter Bradshaw (Guardian)
Unlike many other critics, Peter Bradshaw from the Guardian did not enjoy Disney’s Encanto. In his review, Bradshaw called the movie a “blandly frictionless Disney fairytale that misses the magic”. Although Bradshaw praises the music and voice cast, he claims Encanto‘s messages are contradictory and that the movie lacks something truly special. In scoring it, Bradshaw gave Encanto 2 out of 5 stars.
Rachel LaBonte (Screen Rant)
Rachel LaBonte from Screen Rant reviewed Encanto similarly to AV Club‘s Caroline Siede. The majority of LaBonte’s review is positive; however, there are some issues with the movie she notes, primarily that it feels a little too familiar. In her review, LaBonte states, “Though it can’t quite break out of the Disney mold, Encanto is greatly aided by a unique story, a delightful cast of characters, and a vital message”. In scoring Encanto, LaBonte gave the movie a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Overall, it appears Disney’s Encanto — like many movies — has some mixed reviews. However, every critic appears to have high praise for both the cast and music. Ultimately, when it comes to a Disney feature, what more does one need?
Be sure to check back in with The Nerd Stash for more updates on Disney’s Encanto and other news on movies, TV shows, and video games!