In the animated film Coco, Miguel breaks the promise of Mama Imelda's blessing by entering the Land of the Dead without her permission and playing music, something she strictly forbade. This act has several consequences:
Consequences of Breaking the Promise:
- Disappearance from the Family Photo: Miguel's photo in the family ofrenda disappears, symbolizing his erasure from the memories of his living family. This highlights the importance of family bonds and the consequences of defying ancestral traditions.
- Threat of Becoming a Spirit of Forgetfulness: If Miguel doesn't return to the Land of the Living before sunrise, he risks becoming a Spirit of Forgetfulness, a fate worse than death. These spirits are trapped in the Land of the Dead, forgotten by their living families and destined to wander aimlessly.
- Conflict with Mama Imelda: Mama Imelda becomes furious with Miguel for disobeying her and jeopardizing his soul. This fuels a conflict between them, highlighting the importance of respecting family values and traditions.
Lessons Learned:
- Respect for Family Traditions: Miguel's journey teaches the importance of respecting family traditions and honoring ancestral wishes.
- Importance of Family Bonds: The film emphasizes the importance of family bonds and how they sustain us even after death.
- Following Your Dreams: While respecting family traditions is important, the film also encourages pursuing your dreams and passions. Miguel's journey showcases the power of following one's heart.
