Vivo: A Musical Gem with Emotional Gaps

The opening shot of Vivo (2021), directed by Kirk DeMicco, lingers on a vibrant Havana street, alive with rhythm and color. This is where we meet Vivo, a music-loving kinkajou voiced by Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose journey to deliver a love song for an old friend forms the heart of this Netflix animated feature.

Vivo is a family-friendly musical adventure that blends Caribbean beats with universal themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The film’s strongest moments come when it leans into its musical roots, like the infectious “Un mundo perfecto” performed by Miranda and Ynairaly Simo as Gabi. These sequences pulse with energy, showcasing the power of music to connect across generations and borders. The animation itself is visually impressive, with lush environments and expressive character designs that bring the vibrant settings of Cuba and Florida to life.

However, Vivo stumbles when it strays from its musical core. The narrative occasionally veers into predictable territory, relying on well-worn tropes of found family and coming-of-age clichés. While Miranda’s charisma shines through Vivo’s playful and determined voice, the emotional beats sometimes feel contrived rather than earned. The supporting cast, including Zoe Saldaña as Rosa and Gloria Estefan as Marta Sandoval, delivers solid performances but lacks depth in a script that prioritizes spectacle over substance.

The film’s attempt to balance humor, heart, and adventure leads to tonal whiplash. Moments of genuine emotional weight are undercut by slapstick gags or overly simplistic resolutions. The pacing also falters, with the journey feeling rushed at times, particularly in its second act. While the animation is technically proficient, it often feels derivative of other animated features, lacking a distinct visual identity that could elevate it above the crowd.

In the end, Vivo is a sweet but forgettable addition to the Netflix animated lineup. It shines brightest when it embraces its musical heart, but stumbles when it strays into familiar storytelling territory.

The film’s central premise—delivering a love song across continents—holds promise, but the execution often feels uneven. The journey from Cuba to Florida is visually stunning, with vibrant cityscapes and lush landscapes that capture the essence of both locations. Yet, the narrative struggles to maintain momentum, relying on a series of loosely connected set pieces rather than a cohesive arc. This disjointed structure undermines the emotional stakes, making it difficult to fully invest in Vivo’s quest.

Miranda’s performance as Vivo is the film’s standout element. His ability to infuse the character with warmth, humor, and vulnerability brings a much-needed spark to the proceedings. The chemistry between Miranda and Simo as Gabi is palpable, particularly in their musical numbers, which are the film’s undeniable highlights. However, the supporting characters, including Brian Tyree Henry as Dancarino and Nicole Byer as Valentina, feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The film’s soundtrack, featuring a mix of original songs and Latin rhythms, is one of its strongest assets. The music seamlessly integrates into the narrative, enhancing both emotional beats and comedic moments. However, the script often prioritizes spectacle over substance, with musical sequences that feel more like showcases than integral parts of the story.

Vivo’s exploration of themes such as love, loss, and self-discovery is commendable, but the execution lacks depth. The film’s attempts to tackle these complex emotions are often overshadowed by its reliance on familiar tropes and simplistic resolutions. This superficial treatment of weighty subjects prevents Vivo from resonating on a deeper level.

In comparison to other animated musicals, Vivo falls short of the emotional and narrative complexity found in films like Coco or Moana. While it shares their vibrant visuals and catchy soundtracks, it lacks the thematic richness and character development that elevate those films. Vivo is ultimately a missed opportunity to explore the unique cultural and musical landscape of Cuba and its diaspora in a more nuanced way.

The film’s target audience—families with young children—will likely enjoy its colorful visuals, upbeat music, and lighthearted humor. However, those seeking a more substantive narrative or deeper emotional engagement may find Vivo lacking. The film’s reliance on well-worn tropes and simplistic resolutions makes it feel more like a watered-down version of other animated musicals rather than a standout in its own right.

In conclusion, Vivo is a visually impressive but ultimately forgettable addition to the Netflix animated lineup. While its musical sequences and vibrant visuals are undeniably entertaining, the film’s narrative weaknesses and lack of depth prevent it from standing out in a crowded field.