The Book of Life
Write your own story.
Overview
The journey of Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart. Before choosing which path to follow, he embarks on an incredible adventure that spans three fantastical worlds where he must face his greatest fears.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Set in a mythical Mexico, 'The Book of Life' draws inspiration from Mexican folklore and Day of the Dead celebrations. The film features various elements that reflect traditional Mexican culture, such as Marigold flowers, sugar skulls, and Aztec mythology.
- Stunning animation with vibrant colors and intricate designs reminiscent of traditional Mexican art.
- A unique blend of humor, action, and romance that appeals to both children and adults.
- Thought-provoking themes such as love, fate, and the power of choices make for a rich and engaging story.
- Strong voice cast including Zoe Saldana, Channing Tatum, and Diego Luna.
Fun Facts
- 'The Book of Life' was co-directed by Jorge Gutierrez, a Mexican animator who infused his personal experiences and love for his culture into the film.
- The film's main characters, Manolo, Maria, and Joaquin, are named after famous Mexican artists Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and José Guadalupe Posada respectively.
- In one scene, a character can be seen playing the jarana – a traditional Mexican string instrument – an homage to the filmmaker's roots.
Available Languages
English
US
Title:
"Write your own story."
Português
PT
Title: O Livro da Vida
""
Español
ES
Title: El libro de la vida
"Una aventura diferente a todo lo que hayas visto."
Pусский
RU
Title: Книга жизни
""
Français
FR
Title: La Légende de Manolo
"Manolo reverra-t-il sa bien-aimée ?"
Deutsch
DE
Title: Manolo und das Buch des Lebens
""
Where to Watch
Cast
Crew
Reviews
The big eyes and the slightly cardboard-box style of animation is really quite engaging as we follow the tale of "Manolo". He's an excitable young man who finds himself torn between staying home and living the life his family want him to, and setting off and having some adventures of his own. It's the latter draw that prevails and after a trip to the museum with his friends, he is soon dealing with demons from within and without that challenge his very essence, his being - his soul, even. The story is steeped in history, in myth and in imagination and is colourfully and vividly delivered using a clever mix of dialogue, music and quite often just the richness of the imagery itself. Can this young man play games with those more experienced, malevolent, cunning and find the happiness he is looking for? Of course - there is jeopardy too - if he gets it wrong, then all humankind is going to suffer! There's even a gentle hint of a childish love triangle as the story builds to quite an entertaining - if predictable - denouement. It's a classy bit of cinema this, with plenty of strong characterisation, action, some darkness and just enough to keep the brain ticking over too. Cinema is best - it brings out the vivacity of the whole thing so much better.
Oscar Awards
Wins
Haven't Won A Oscar
Nominations
Haven't Nominated for Oscar
Media
Trailer
The Book of Life Official Trailer #1 (2014) - Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana Animated Movie HD