Movie Review: "The Book of Life" - A Colorful and Soulful Animated Masterpiece

"Expect the unexpected" is one of the best statements to describe "The Book of Life". Truly, it is a colorful and soulful animated masterpiece that excites the senses. "The Book of Life" started with a wondrous and colorful opening salvo inviting the audience to give their full attention. The film's playful stylized animation felt like watching a set of marionette dolls that came to life. The perfect infusion of Latin music and Mexican culture added the unforgettable charm in this animated feature film. The voice acting of the characters were perfect for every roles (from the main characters down to the animals). One of the best scenes for me was the superb fiesta in "The Land of the Remembered". The vivid and overwhelming animated carnivale celebrating "The Day of the Dead" would surely stay in the minds of anyone who would watch it. There was never a dull moment in this adventured filled story of love, friendship and life. One of the best animated film for the whole family, “TheBook of Life” is a must see in movie theaters nationwide.

From visionary filmmaker Jorge Gutierrez whose unique visual style and vibrant storytelling technique,  “TheBook of Life” tells the story of three best friends - Manolo and his equally courageous best friend Joaquin are not your typical Prince Charmings; the object of their affections is far from being your average princess, hence “The Book of Life” is a fairy tale that doesn’t go by the book.   

Director Jorge R. Gutierrez's love for family, tradition and storytelling created a truly singular, a first of its kind animation in "The Book of Life" where it will reveal never-before-seen characters and will take the audience in three fantastical worlds - the town of  San Angel, The Land of the Remembered and The Land of the Forgotten.  

        "The Book of Life" is also about remembrance and cherishing memories composed of a voice cast led by Channing Tatum, Diego Luna and Zoe Saldana, along with multi-talented actors Christina Applegate, Kate Del Castillo, Ice Cube and Ron Perlman. In the movie, following Maria’s (Saldana) return to San Angel, she is reunited with her best friends Manolo (Luna) and Joaquin (Tatum) at the bullfighting arena, where Manolo is preparing for his first match. Manolo, like all the Sanchez men who preceded him, battles bravely and skillfully.  But unlike his forebears, when the moment comes for Manolo to finish the bull, he refuses.  The whole town turns on Manolo, including his father who feels terribly let down.  Moreover, Manolo fears he may have thrown away his chance to win Maria's heart. 

  "The Book of Life" (2D and 3D) opens nationwide in cinemas on October 16 (Thursday) from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.