ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Pixar's Coco Breaks Box Office Records in Mexico, Celebrates Día de los Muertos

other · 2026-05-05

Pixar's animated film "Coco" has become the highest-grossing film of the year in Mexico, earning approximately €37.5 million since its October 27 release. Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-written with Adrian Molina, the film centers on 12-year-old Miguel Rivera, who dreams of becoming a musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz, despite his family's ban on music. The story is set during the Día de los Muertos celebration and explores themes of memory, family, and cultural heritage. Miguel accidentally ends up in the Land of the Dead, where he discovers his roots. The film features vibrant colors, music, and a joyful portrayal of the afterlife, contrasting with typical macabre depictions. Italian voice actors include Matilda De Angelis, Michele Bravi, Mara Maionchi, and Valentina Lodovini. The film releases in Italy on December 28. Maionchi commented on the importance of family and remembrance, noting that Mexico maintains a stronger ritual connection to the dead. The article also promotes Artribune's newsletters: Incanti (art market), Render (urban regeneration), and PAX (cultural tourism).

Key facts

  • Coco earned approximately €37.5 million in Mexico since October 27 release.
  • It is the highest-grossing film of the year in Mexico.
  • Directed by Lee Unkrich and co-written with Adrian Molina.
  • Protagonist Miguel Rivera is a 12-year-old aspiring musician.
  • The film celebrates Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).
  • Italian release date: December 28.
  • Italian voice cast includes Matilda De Angelis, Michele Bravi, Mara Maionchi, Valentina Lodovini.
  • Themes include memory, family, and cultural heritage.

Entities

Artists

  • Lee Unkrich
  • Adrian Molina
  • Matilda De Angelis
  • Michele Bravi
  • Mara Maionchi
  • Valentina Lodovini
  • Margherita Bordino
  • Tim Burton
  • Ugo Foscolo
  • Ernesto de la Cruz

Institutions

  • Disney Pixar
  • Pixar
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Mexico
  • Italy
  • Rome

Sources