Disney and Pixar have officially announced the development of Coco 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2017 animated masterpiece Coco.
The original film captivated audiences with its heartfelt narrative and vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture, making it a global phenomenon. During Disney’s annual shareholder meeting, CEO Bob Iger confirmed that the sequel is in its early stages and is set for a 2029 release. “While the film is just in the initial stages, we know it will be full of humor, heart, and adventure,” Iger stated. Adding to the excitement, the original creative team—director Lee Unkrich, co-director Adrian Molina, and producer Mark Nielsen—is returning, promising to recapture the magic that made the first film a beloved classic.
The Legacy of Coco
Released in 2017, Coco became an instant success, grossing over $810 million worldwide and winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for Remember Me. The film resonated deeply with audiences, particularly in Mexico, where it became the highest-grossing film of all time at the Mexican box office. Critics and fans alike praised its cultural authenticity, stunning animation, and emotional depth, which made it stand out among Pixar’s best works. Additionally, Coco played a crucial role in bringing Día de los Muertos to a global audience, fostering a greater appreciation for the traditions and significance of the holiday beyond Latin America. Its universal themes of family, remembrance, and legacy allowed it to connect with viewers across cultures, solidifying its status as a modern classic.
What We Know About Coco 2
Though details remain scarce, Coco 2 is expected to continue Miguel’s journey while exploring new aspects of Mexican folklore and traditions. Pixar has yet to reveal an official plot, but many speculate that the sequel will follow Miguel into adulthood, where he faces new challenges in balancing his passion for music with family obligations. As he grows older, Miguel may struggle to reconcile his dreams with the responsibilities that come with maturity, adding emotional depth to the story. Some theories suggest that Coco 2 may introduce a new protagonist or delve deeper into Miguel’s ancestral history, uncovering lost stories from past generations.
The return of the original creative team—director Lee Unkrich, co-director Adrian Molina, and producer Mark Nielsen—indicates that the film will maintain the depth and emotional resonance of its predecessor while incorporating fresh themes and visually stunning landscapes. Fans can expect Coco 2 to continue Pixar’s tradition of heartfelt storytelling, combining breathtaking animation with meaningful cultural narratives. Given the first film’s success, expectations are high for another deeply moving and culturally rich story that honors the spirit of its predecessor while introducing new dimensions to Miguel’s world.
Fan Reactions and Theories
Since the announcement, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts, with reactions ranging from excitement to skepticism. On Reddit, a post from a year ago even predicted that Disney would announce Coco 2. The discussion sparked speculation about potential plot directions, with some fans envisioning Miguel’s rise as a musician and the introduction of new mythological elements from Mexican culture. Others believe the sequel might explore Miguel’s relationship with his ancestors in greater depth, leading to another visually stunning journey between the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead.
Meanwhile, discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have been more divided. Under Disney’s official announcement post, several users questioned the need for a sequel, arguing that the original film had a complete and satisfying conclusion. However, others expressed excitement about returning to Miguel’s world, eager to see how Pixar would expand on the original’s themes. Disney’s Instagram post also received positive comments, with fans reminiscing about their love for Coco and expressing enthusiasm for a new chapter.
Additionally, another Reddit thread featured two users debating the possibility of Coco 2 incorporating elements from Up. They speculated on a crossover that could blend the emotional depth of both films, imagining how the themes of memory and adventure from Up might intertwine with Coco’s focus on family and legacy. These conversations highlight the widespread engagement with Coco 2, demonstrating the lasting impact of the original and the high expectations for its follow-up.
Global Success in China and Mexico
Coco was a monumental success in Mexico. Audiences are deeply connected with its heartfelt depiction of Día de los Muertos, its vibrant animation, and its authentic representation of Mexican traditions. The film’s emotional storytelling, centered on themes of family and remembrance, struck a chord with viewers, turning Coco into a cultural touchstone. Its impact extended beyond the box office, sparking renewed interest in Mexican folklore and inspiring discussions about the importance of cultural representation in global media. Given this immense resonance, Coco 2 is expected to receive just as much enthusiasm from Mexican audiences, potentially further celebrating new facets of Mexican heritage and storytelling.
Meanwhile, Coco also experienced remarkable success in China, where it grossed nearly $190 million, making it one of Pixar’s highest-earning films in the region. This achievement was particularly surprising given China’s strict censorship policies on supernatural themes, which often limit the success of films dealing with ghosts or the afterlife. Analysts attribute Coco’s breakthrough to its universal themes of family, memory, and legacy, which resonated deeply with Chinese audiences. Additionally, the film’s stunning visual storytelling and emotional depth helped it transcend cultural barriers. The unexpected triumph of Coco in China suggests that Coco 2 could be strategically marketed to appeal to international audiences, potentially weaving in elements that resonate beyond Latin America while maintaining the film’s core cultural authenticity.
The Success of Inside Out 2 and What it Means for Coco 2
The overwhelming success of Inside Out 2 reaffirms that audiences remain eager for Pixar sequels, particularly those that expand on the themes and emotional depth of their predecessors. The film, which delved deeper into the complexities of human emotions, became one of Pixar’s highest-grossing sequels, demonstrating that well-crafted follow-ups can captivate both new and returning viewers.
If Coco 2 adopts a similar approach—building upon the rich emotional core and cultural depth of the original—it could achieve comparable success. Pixar’s careful handling of Inside Out 2 suggests that Coco 2 will balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling, ensuring that it resonates deeply with audiences while exploring new, thought-provoking narratives. Given the passionate fanbase and the first film’s worldwide impact, Coco 2 has the potential to be another milestone in Pixar’s legacy of heartfelt and visually stunning storytelling.
Conclusion
Coco 2 is more than just a sequel; it is a continuation of a story that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Beyond its potential box-office success, the film carries the responsibility of upholding the cultural authenticity and emotional richness that made Coco a beloved classic. With the return of the original creative team and growing demand for diverse storytelling, Coco 2 has the opportunity to further amplify Latin American voices and inspire global audiences. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await another visually stunning and emotionally resonant journey that will celebrate family, heritage, and the power of music. If Coco was a love letter to Mexican culture, Coco 2 has the chance to deepen that message and solidify its place in animation history.
