Encanto

Breaking generational curses and healing unhealthy historic trauma has never been so beautiful with vibrant colours, butterflies, and soulful songs! Disney’s Encanto emanates warmth, with both its exotic Colombian setting and magical story full of heartfelt emotional truth. The relatable messy family dynamic captivates the audience as the characters use the gifts which have been bestowed upon them, to blindly follow bloodline traditions, toe the line, and live up to the expectations of Mirabel’s grandmother and the Madrigals austere matriarch Alma. As the tale unfolds, so does this picture-perfect façade with granddaughter Mirabel questioning the unspoken pressure to be perfect and the toll it is taking on her sibling’s mental health.

After Mirabel confronts Alma with all her might, she eventually learns that Alma’s controlling attitude is underpinned in pain from her own tragic past, where her husband was slain by soldiers before her eyes. It is therefore understandable how a fear of abandonment has been formed. I found this very fitting with the times we are living in today, where anxiety, depression and personal problems are addressed and spoken about and no longer have so much of a shame stigma attached. Although toxic behaviour should never be tolerated, Alma’s generation were actively encouraged to keep up a certain appearance and ‘sweep it all under the carpet’, all these unaddressed secrets must have significantly altered wellbeing and contributed to destructive coping strategies. It’s very admirable to see Mirabel and Bruno bravely going against the grain and opening the dialogue with Alma, which delves into the past and therefore helps heals the family friction.

On a more light-hearted note, let’s celebrate the courageous narrative, admire the animation, and replicate the cast members strength and true-to-themselves taste by looking for meaning in the main characters clothing and style.

Bruno –

Mirabel’s uncle and Alma’s mysterious son Bruno has quite a cult following and fan base. He is shunned from the family for his psychic abilities which pierce the veil of illusion and predict unfortunate future events. Bruno wears a ruana which represents his will to remain true to his roots as the item originates from the Colombian indigenous Muisca. The light green ruana tone conveys intuition, knowledge, wisdom, and fairness which fits with the man who made himself a recluse to remain close to his next of kin. His brown undergarments are more rooted and symbolize stability and resilience which was demonstrated when he sacrificed himself to protect Mirabel from the shunning she was likely to suffer from his prophecies.

Mirabel –

At only 15 years old, Mirabel shows authenticity, social skills, emotional maturity, and empathy beyond her years. Although old fashioned Alma may initially think otherwise, Mirabel seems to be the real rock for the Madrigals as she effortlessly supports the children and leads the Madrigals to a new level of more collaborative consciousness. Her gypsy scalloped top and tasselled skirt show her free spirit and the bright colourful palette portrays her vibrant and positive persona which remains intact even after feeling inadequate for not being granted a similar ‘gift’ to her siblings. Her light green glasses link with Bruno and accessorise her looks with wisdom. The butterfly prints are a powerful pointer to the family’s rebirth which she is destined to deliver.

Alma –

Pearl earrings decorate Alma’s conservative aesthetic and depict wealth, power, and classic sophistication. Her crimson red dress is a toned-down shade and so shows a more refined version of an assertive personality. The pocket watches attached to chains hanging from her waist are similar to that of a guard on the clock who keeps a straight face and never defies their duty. Her sensible high neck ensemble contrasts with the subtle butterfly embroidery at the bottom of her skirt. Perhaps the future collapse of her superficial values and liberated fate had always been sewn into the family.