Review: VIVO, Netflix

Lin-Manuel Miranda fans, it's time to rejoice as Vivo drops on Netflix, with original music, lyrics and voice talent from the man himself.

Leading up to this film, there has been little to no hype, which is unfortunate as we found it to be absolutely delightful! The film provided us with almost two hours of entertainment full to the brim with heart, adorable animals and beautiful music.

Vivo (voiced by Miranda) is a young Kinkajou, who performs music with his owner Andrés everyday in the plaza in Havana, Cuba. One day Andrés receives a letter from an old friend whom he loved, asking if he'd like to perform with her on her final show. Seeing it as his chance to finally tell her how he feels, he reveals to Vivo an old song he wrote. But when tragedy occurs, it is up to Vivo to make his own way to Miami and deliver the song himself. With the help of Gabi (Ynairaly Simo) and a few other animals along the way, Vivo's journey is one of music, colour and life.

First pitched to DreamWorks in 2010 by Miranda, it is now Sony who brings it to life 11 years later with a signature style that makes this such an easy watch, especially for children. Vivo's character design is one of the most adorable things you'll see in animation this year and every character and world is full of the vibrancy and detail that Sony is known for (having previously released the incredible The Mitchell's Vs The Machines earlier this year).

The time taken on this film is clear, especially in the soundtrack. For a movie whereby the entire plot is based around a song, the music needs to deliver. Miranda provides a score that never misses and has left us "keeping the beat" in our heads days after watching this film. The emotional climax at the end is also worth listening out for; it is Miranda's unique style that really makes this movie what it is.

The story is a little on the long side however. We feel like it could be cut down here and there to have become a short film and still had the same effect, but this did not detract from the fun we had watching it. And the fun we are sure you will have as your whole family gathers to watch it on Netflix.

It also leaves us all the more excited for Encanto, Miranda’s upcoming Disney project later this year, which we are sure will tick all of the boxes to become a hit!

***’ Three and a half stars

Reviewed by: Callum Wallace

Vivo is now available to stream on Netflix.