October is usually Tim Burton re-watch month. This year, something new is coming to the table.
Even at first glance, the animation style of “The Book of Life” stands out. It’s like someone took a Burton drawing, splashed it with technicolor and stretched the image like putty. The characters look almost like moving wooden dolls.
“The Book of Life” is set on el Dia de los Muertos, Mexico's Day of the Dead. On that day, the boundaries between the spirit world and mortal world are blurred, and anything is possible. The story follows two men, Manolo (Diego Luna) and Joaquin (Channing Tatum), as they fight to win the hand of the beautiful Maria (Zoe Saldana).
This film doesn’t just have a little Spanish spice. Directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez and produced by Guillermo del Toro, it’s pretty authentic. That’s what makes its animated twist on the Day of the Dead so interesting.
“As a kid I didn’t get it,” Tatum said in an interview. “You act like someone who has moved on from this life is right there with you. You cook their favorite food, tell their stories… talk to them like they’re there – and they will be. It’s a gorgeous tradition.”
“The Book of Life” is arguably the biggest animated release since “How To Train Your Dragon 2” this summer, so it’s sure to make a splash. If you’re looking for a way to change up your Halloween traditions, this is your best bet.
