Disney’s animated film Encanto captivated audiences with its vibrant visuals, catchy tunes, and heartfelt story. However, beneath the enchanting facade, the film faced several criticisms that sparked discussions among viewers and critics alike. In this article, we’ll delve into the various issues that some audiences had with Encanto, offering a balanced perspective on the film’s shortcomings.
1. Overemphasis on TikTok Trends
One of the criticisms leveled against Encanto is its overreliance on TikTok-inspired dance sequences. While the film’s choreography is undeniably energetic and visually appealing, some felt that certain scenes, like Luisa’s “Surface Pressure,” seemed more tailored for social media virality than for advancing the story or character development. This approach led to concerns that the film prioritized marketability over meaningful storytelling, transforming it into a piece of marketing rather than a self-contained artistic work .
2. Contradictory Messages
Encanto presents a narrative that encourages embracing individuality and breaking free from familial expectations. However, some critics argue that the film’s portrayal of the Madrigal family’s magical gifts sends a mixed message. While the story advocates for self-acceptance, it simultaneously suggests that the family’s powers are both a blessing and a burden. This contradiction left some viewers questioning the film’s stance on the value of individual talents and the pressures associated with them .
3. Underdeveloped Characters
While the film introduces a diverse array of characters, several of them lack depth and development. For instance, Dolores, who possesses superhuman hearing, is portrayed as a love-struck character with limited screen time and character growth. This underdevelopment led to missed opportunities for exploring the complexities of each family member and their unique abilities, leaving some audiences yearning for more substantial character arcs .
4. Pacing Issues
The pacing of Encanto has been a point of contention among viewers. Some felt that the film’s second act dragged, with certain sequences feeling repetitive or drawn out. This uneven pacing affected the overall flow of the narrative, making it challenging for some audiences to remain fully engaged throughout the film .
5. Over-Sanitized Representation
While Encanto has been praised for its cultural representation, some critics argue that the film presents an overly idealized version of Colombian life. By focusing on the Madrigal family’s magical abilities and their idyllic village, the film may inadvertently gloss over the complexities and challenges faced by real communities. This sanitized portrayal has led to discussions about the importance of depicting authentic and multifaceted representations of cultures in media .
6. Missed Opportunities in Addressing Power Dynamics
The film touches on themes of power and dependency, particularly through the Madrigal family’s relationship with the townspeople. However, some critics feel that Encanto misses an opportunity to delve deeper into these dynamics. The villagers’ reliance on the Madrigals for various tasks, such as weather control and healing, is portrayed without fully exploring the implications of this dependency. A more nuanced examination of these power structures could have added depth to the film’s social commentary .
7. Repetitive Musical Numbers
While Lin-Manuel Miranda’s contributions to the film’s soundtrack are noteworthy, some viewers found certain songs to be repetitive and lacking in originality. Tracks like “What Else Can I Do?” and “Surface Pressure” were criticized for their similarity to Miranda’s previous works, leading to a sense of musical déjà vu. This repetition detracted from the film’s overall musical impact, leaving some audiences wishing for more diverse and innovative compositions .
8. Unresolved Plot Elements
Encanto introduces several intriguing plot points that ultimately remain unresolved. For example, the film hints at the significance of Mirabel’s lack of a magical gift but does not fully explore the implications of this absence. Additionally, the mystery surrounding Bruno’s prophecy and his subsequent exile is only partially addressed, leaving some viewers with lingering questions and a sense of narrative incompleteness .
9. Emotional Manipulation
Some critics argue that Encanto employs emotional manipulation to elicit tears from the audience without fully earning them. The film’s portrayal of family trauma and reconciliation is heartfelt, but certain moments may feel contrived or overly sentimental. This approach risks undermining the authenticity of the emotional journey, making it feel more like a calculated attempt to tug at the heartstrings than a genuine exploration of familial relationships .
10. Unrealistic Expectations for Children
The film’s depiction of the Madrigal family’s magical abilities sets a high bar for excellence and achievement. While the story encourages embracing one’s unique qualities, it also presents an idealized version of success that may be unrealistic for children to relate to. This portrayal could inadvertently contribute to feelings of inadequacy or pressure among young viewers who may struggle to meet such lofty standards .
Conclusion
While Encanto has undoubtedly made a significant impact with its vibrant animation, memorable music, and heartfelt themes, it is not without its flaws. From overemphasis on TikTok trends and contradictory messages to underdeveloped characters and pacing issues, the film presents several challenges that have sparked critical discussions. By acknowledging these shortcomings, audiences can engage in a more nuanced conversation about the film’s strengths and areas for improvement, ultimately leading to a deeper appreciation of its artistic achievements and cultural significance.
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