Vivo

Vivo is a music-obsessed kinkajou who inhabits a sunlit Cuban neighborhood, performing with an aging street musician named Andres. When Andres dies, Vivo learns that a farewell love song was meant for an old flame. He teams with a spirited teen named Gabi who longs for her own big break. Together they embark on a cross country voyage to deliver the song to its recipient, navigating a mix of challenges and surprises along the way. The journey tests their resolve, introduces them to colorful new allies, and shows how a single melody can bridge generations and cultures.

Directed by Kirk DeMicco, Vivo stems from an original story by Peter Barsocchini, Kirk DeMicco, and Quiara Alegría Hudes. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, it premiered on Netflix in 2021 and features music by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The production also highlights Spanish language songs and Havana's street culture through vibrant visuals.

Critics praised Vivo for its energetic animation and catchy songs. Lin-Manuel Miranda's score gives the film a bright Latin rhythm that keeps the pace upbeat. The story emphasizes friendship, perseverance, and honoring memory, while balancing humor with heartfelt moments. The tone stays light and hopeful, even when obstacles arise.

Box office: Vivo premiered on Netflix in 2021, so there is no traditional theatrical gross. The film's reach comes from streaming audiences worldwide, with a soundtrack push and online marketing tied to Lin-Manuel Miranda's songs, and the film's release drew attention from families seeking upbeat musical fare.

Cultural impact: Vivo sits among a wave of musical animated features that foreground Latino art and music, expanding Lin-Manuel Miranda's reach into animation. The film's memorable songs and character relationships offer a family friendly entry point for discussions about legacy and cultural exchange, while its colorful visuals and humor leave a lasting impression on younger viewers and their playlists.