What Encanto 2 Could Be Like

“It is simply charming” ; “a film full of lots of energy and fun”; “the perfect family movie”; “it is a visual and musical feast for the eyes and ears”; «a happy and lively celebration of Colombian culture»… These are just some of the millions of reviews that can be read on the internet when it comes to “Encanto”, the sixtieth film produced by Disney and that today continues to give something to talk about.

Both adults and children know the magic that is behind animated films. Precisely, “Encanto” has had a much more special touch than other productions and that is due to the elements that associate it with Latin American culture, mainly with Colombia, something that has undoubtedly been a source of pride. In fact, according to local media, its premiere in Colombia was a box office record with 968,299 viewers. It then became the best premiere during the pandemic.

Another highlight of the success of “Encanto” is its soundtrack. One of its great songs, “We don’t talk about  Bruno”, has managed to position itself at the top of Billboard magazine’s Hot 100 List, and has overtaken “Let it go” from “Frozen” as the highest-charting Disney song ever. In turn, it is worth mentioning that the film became the most-watched title on Disney+ during Christmas, according to the streaming platform itself.

Now, for the time being, Disney hasn’t put an “Encanto” sequel in the works, though that doesn’t mean it’s not possible. Let’s remember that “Frozen”, for example, took six years to release a sequel, so there is still hope that we will see the Madrigal family once again with new and magical adventures. But what would this new plot be about?

Also read: Did You Like Encanto? Here Are Some Colombian Animated Movies You Might Enjoy

Colombian elements in Encanto 2

Before thinking about how big this new movie could be, we need to know how to structure it. “Encanto” has a variety of colorful characters that could even have their own miniseries, something that Disney has been developing on its platform with other productions. So, would it be possible to make several series? would they continue from the end of the first? Or, on the contrary, could we know the origin of the powers of the family? Any of the three options (even all three) would be very welcome.

Let’s not forget that there are several references to Colombia in “Encanto”. For example, flowers appear throughout the film and among them the orchid stands out, precisely the national flower of the country. Likewise, other elements such as coffee, the most recognized beverage worldwide; traditional clothing and hats; as well as the accordion, a musical instrument that serves as the basis for vallenato, were not lacking during the hour and 49 minutes that the film lasts.

In turn, as it is also a musical, “Encanto 2” would use the music that is enjoyed in Colombia and that would add a more intimate touch to the film. Beyond the classic vallenato, the songs could draw from genres such as cumbia, joropo, currulao, and even salsa. Even world-class artists such as Juanes, Shakira or Los Aterciopelados could be added to a soundtrack that already had the voices of Carlos Vives and Sebastián Yatra.

Other details that I do not would escape this second part would go hand in hand with gastronomy and art. To the references of coffee, arepa and achiras, we should add the typical paisa tray and ajiaco. How not to want to see Julieta Madrigal heal again with a delicious plate of food? For its part, there could also be a wink towards characters such as the painter Fernando Botero or athletes with great careers such as Juan Pablo Montoya and Caterine Ibargüen, who at some point in the plot would appear to help the protagonist to fulfill its mission.

And although “Encanto” makes a small reference to the Day of the Candles, one of the most traditional festivities of Colombian culture, we cannot fail to mention other customs that would serve as basis for a second film. For example, the Carnival of Barranquilla or the Carnival of Blacks and Whites, are two essential events in the country’s culture.

In short, Disney has all the necessary ingredients to start producing another “Encanto” movie. Whether it’s a miniseries exploring more details of its characters or a sequel filled with more Colombian cultural elements, the entire Latino community -and the world- will welcome the possible new adventures of the Madrigal family with open arms.