The Book of Life (2014), directed Jorge R. Gutierrez and produced Guillermo del Toro, is a visually stunning animated film that explores themes of life, death, and love through a colorful, magical lens. Set against the backdrop of Mexican folklore and traditions, the film takes audiences on a journey through the Land of the Remembered and the Land of the Forgotten, where the spirits of the deceased live on in vibrant, lively worlds.

The film follows the story of three childhood friends—Manolo, María, and Joaquin—who grow up in a small Mexican village. The story is told through a framing device, with a museum tour guide narrating the tale to a group of schoolchildren. The guide tells the story of the three friends and their destinies, as they navigate love, bravery, and their roles in the afterlife.

Manolo (voiced by Diego Luna) is a kind-hearted young man torn between following his family’s legacy of bullfighting and pursuing his true passion—music. Joaquin (voiced by Channing Tatum) is a dashing, fearless hero who seeks to protect his village. María (voiced by Zoe Saldana) is a strong-willed and independent woman, whom both men love. The story becomes a battle of love, courage, and self-discovery as Manolo and Joaquin vie for María’s affection.

Meanwhile, the narrative unfolds through the perspective of two spirits: La Muerte, the ruler of the Land of the Remembered, and Xibalba, the ruler of the Land of the Forgotten. These two spirits gamble on which of the two men will win María’s heart. Their wager sets the stage for Manolo’s journey through the afterlife, where he must confront his fears, discover his true self, and ultimately decide what kind of legacy he wants to leave.