With Halloween looming around the corner here in the States, there is another important occasion taking place around the same time. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an important holiday in my native country, Mexico.
A celebration of three days, Mexicans put up altars and their ancestors’ favorite foods. These days are full of music, partying, and plenty of food.
It’s harder to celebrate here in America. But in honor of these beautiful traditions, here are two full length films and one short film that capture the beauty of Dia de los Muertos.
Coco (2017)
This Disney movie follows Miguel into the Land of the Dead as he seeks to follow his dreams. The visuals in this movie are stunning. I left this movie crying, so have some tissues handy!
El Libro de la Vida / The Book of Life (2014)
This movie is Day of the Dead meets William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. There is forbidden love and a journey to true love. This movie is a great pick-me-up.
Dia de los Muertos / Day of the Dead (2013)
This short film portrays a young girl and her journey to discovery of her culture’s traditions. Short and sweet, it has a bittersweet twist in the end that will remind you to pay your mothers a visit. This almost-four minute long video is available on YouTube.