Coco is not based on a single specific legend but is deeply rooted in the real Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The filmmakers conducted extensive research in Mexico to authentically portray the traditions, such as the ofrendas (altars), marigold bridges (cempasúchil), and alebrijes (spirit guides), ensuring cultural accuracy and respect.

The core message of Coco is the importance of family, memory, and honoring one's ancestors. It explores the idea that true death only occurs when we are forgotten by the living. It encourages viewers to cherish their heritage and keep the stories of their loved ones alive across generations.

Music is forbidden because Miguel's great-great-grandfather left his wife (Imelda) and daughter (Coco) to pursue a career as a musician. This abandonment caused Imelda to ban all music from the family, a rule that was strictly upheld for generations until Miguel challenged it to follow his dream.

The song serves as the emotional anchor of the film. Originally written as a lullaby from a father to his daughter, it was later repurposed as a famous pop song. Its true meaning—a promise of love across distance and memory—is key to resolving the story's conflict and healing the family's past.

Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures. In the movie Coco, they are reimagined as spirit guides in the Land of the Dead. While the concept of spirit animals exists in Zapotec traditions, the colorful, composite style of alebrijes originated in the 1930s by artist Pedro Linares and was incorporated into the film's mythology.

Yes, the visual design is inspired by real Mexican locations like Guanajuato, known for its colorful, stacked buildings. The film faithfully represents Día de los Muertos traditions and aesthetics.

Miguel is voiced by Anthony Gonzalez. He was 12 years old when he was cast and provided both the speaking and singing voice for the character.

The dog's name is Dante. He is a Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo), a hairless Mexican breed that is often associated with guiding souls to the underworld in Aztec mythology.

While the character is fictional, the filmmakers met with many real families in Mexico during their research. In 2018, a woman named María Salud Ramírez Caballero was identified by fans as a potential real-life inspiration due to her striking resemblance, though Disney has stated the character was not based on any specific individual.

The film takes place in 2017, the same year it was released. However, the story is timeless in its exploration of family history and the connection between generations.