Nestled within a mountainous region of Colombia lies an enchanting town, protected by the Madrigal family. This family resides in a magical house that serves as the heart of their community and is deeply cherished by its residents. The new Disney film “Encanto” recounts how the family’s founder established the community with a magical candle. As members reach a certain age, they receive a unique "gift" from the house—an ability to benefit the town. From healing through cooking to communicating with animals and possessing incredible strength, the Madrigal family is an essential support for their neighbors. However, every rule has its exception: young Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz) is the only member of her family without a gift. As a result, she feels more tolerated than loved, especially when compared to her siblings who are blessed with extraordinary abilities. The story shifts when a new family member receives a remarkable gift during the gifting ceremony—the first one since Mirabel’s denial—and is showered with affection from both the town and her relatives. Simultaneously, Mirabel experiences a vision of the house crumbling into ruin. When she tries to alert her family, they dismiss her concerns because the house appears perfectly fine, accusing her of envy and seeking attention away from those who possess gifts. Convinced by what she saw, Mirabel discovers that some family members are concealing information and may hold the key to saving the day. This sets off a search for the missing Uncle Bruno (John Leguizamo), who has retreated into hiding because his gift of prophecy is believed to bring misfortune. Ultimately, Mirabel must confront her own insecurities and discover her inner strength to protect her family and community. The film boasts impressive animation and vibrant colors that beautifully portray this magical setting. The music, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is lively and energetic, continuing Disney’s tradition of memorable musical scores. My main criticism is that while enjoyable, the story sometimes felt slow and didn't always progress as much as it could have. “Encanto” isn’t a bad film—it’s colorful, fun, and spirited—but it doesn't quite reach the level of Disney classics like "Frozen" or "Moana." Consider that “Lilo & Stitch” is a decent animated movie, but few would consider it on par with films such as “The Lion King,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “The Little Mermaid.” Overall, “Encanto” offers an entertaining experience for families and fans alike, demonstrating that even when Disney doesn't achieve perfection, they remain the standard-bearer in animation. 4 stars out of 5

Source on TMDB