The Book of Life

Though the plot gets a bit congested, the film remains far less predictable than most of its kind.

It's refreshingly sparky fare, boasting eye-catching design (wooden toys inspire CG magic), musical weirdness (Radiohead will never sound the same again) and proper laugh-out-loud jokes for young and old alike.

Drawing on Mexican folklore and other Latin American traditions, Jorge R. Gutirrez's version of death in his beautiful, witty 3D-animated debut The Book of Life is bursting with vibrant colours and magic -- a constantly expanding, neverending party.

Fired up on Latin American myth, not afraid to ask children to engage with mortality, The Book of Life could work as a gateway drug to del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth.

Gorgeous visuals, lively voice work and makes inventive use of Mexican history and culture - in particular, The Day of the Dead. Its actual storytelling is a little flat.

Produced by Guillermo del Toro, the film has the baroque wackiness of his tastes and the artistry is magical.

The Book of Life fulfills its premise and contributes its specific uniqueness to the animated universe... [Full review in Spanish]

The Book of Life, like the best animated films, has its own tone, which helps it stand apart as its own thing. The music, a mix of original songs and fun takes on pop hits, is also worthy of praise.

An unexpected delight for all ages.

Updates traditional mythology with modern storytelling, making sure that the movie moves along at the speed of light.