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Catchy songs and vibrant scenes. Netflix’s Vivo takes us on a trip through Cuba and Florida in an attempt to tell a disjointed tale revolving around the adorable titular kinkajou voiced by Lin Manuel Miranda.
Welcome to Havana!
The film begins with a signature Miranda introduction song. We are told by Vivo how he and Andres (Juan de Marcos González), the town’s local musician, become a duo and a family. One evening, Andres receives a letter from his past musical partner and secret love of his life Marta Sandoval (Gloria Estefan) inviting him to play at her last concert in Miami. After an unforeseeable tragedy, it becomes Vivo’s mission to deliver Andres’ song disclosing his deepest love for Marta.
The Rhythm is Gonna Get You!
First and foremost, Miranda and Alex Lacamoire do an excellent job of highlighting many key components of Latinx music. In the opening scene, bongos, keyboard, flute, and trumpets join together to create a Salsa tune. The toe-tapping doesn’t stop there! Throughout the movie, the songs elevate not only the storytelling but also the characters themselves. Many songs sung by Vivo are heavily influenced by these quintessential Caribbean beats and instruments.
Gabi (Ynairaly Simo), Andres’s 10-year-old grandniece, is introduced with the song “Bounce to the Beat of my own Drum”. This results in her displaying more of a hip-hop/rock influence. Although these musical styles contrast one another, Miranda expertly weaves these together in later songs.
Even Farther Than Harlem
The talented animators of Vivo truly bring the vibrancy of Havana and Miami as well as the diversity of both locations. Havana’s beautiful pastel-colored houses and cars marry beautifully with the Caribbean-inspired songs. Meanwhile, the vivid and bright neon-colored Miami matches the more upbeat songs. The backdrop of these two cities mirroring the music of the area allows for the viewer to not only feel the music but also see the representation of the music.
Plot Point Flop
Although this film thrives in its music and animation, the story lacks momentum during the journey to Miami, specifically in the Everglades. Don’t get me wrong, the animation and music are still top-notch. However, it adds unnecessary characters and conflicts that make this portion of the film feel like filler in comparison to Vivo’s main heartwarming arc.
Final Verdict for Vivo
Overall, Vivo shines light and shows the many shades of the Caribbean Latinx culture in more ways than one. Although the main storyline is moving, there are moments that will seem that they do not belong.
Watch Vivo on Netflix starting August 6th!
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