Are you gearing up to watch Disney's latest release? This Encanto movie review from our family will help you decide what ages the movie is best for!

‘Tis the season for great family films!  We've been waiting for this year's Disney animation blockbuster….and spoiler…..Encanto does NOT disappoint.  I was blown away by the beauty of this film.

A few details:

Encanto is a THEATRICAL release (it will NOT release on Disney+ until much later) that will be in theaters nationwide on November 24th.

SOME theaters will probably have late showings on the 23rd….so it's worth checking your local schedule and grabbing tickets in advance if you'd like to see right away (there is something magical about seeing a Disney animated release on opening night).

Encanto: A Family Review

Plot: Encanto shares the rich and beautiful story of the Madrigals, a family living in a hidden village in the mountains of Colombia.  As a result of a family tragedy, the Madrigals have a unique life story……they were blessed with the magic of the Encanto.  A magic that gives every child in the family a gift (they also live in a VERY cool magical house)…..every child except for Mirabel.  Mirabel is an endearing and charismatic character that you will instantly fall in love with.  In fact, the whole family is filled with amazing characters.  From Isabela (who is seemingly perfect) to Luisa (blessed with strength)….I love that this film shares vulnerabilities within in each family member and shares multiple parts of their personalities.  So what happens? Mirabel discovers that the magic is….in danger.  It appears to be fading away.  And her story? Her journey? Is trying to save it all.

Encanto Running Time: 1 hour and 39 minutes

Encanto Rating: Encanto is rated Rated PG for some thematic elements and mild peril.

My Thoughts: This story was created by the team that worked on Zootopia and Moana, and has that same epic storytelling arc and this film? I can't say enough in this Encanto review about how much I love it.  It's well flushed out, well developed and….a ton of fun.  There are so many intricacies to the story that make it fun to watch and the CAST? Is amazing.  From John Leguizamo (as Bruno) to Stephanie Beatriz (as Mirabel) to….MALUMA (who kills it as Mariano)….every character is rich and entertaining.  And the soundtrack? Lin-Manuel Miranda worked on it….so you know it's great. All in all? This is a GREAT family film.  I loved it and can't wait to watch it again!

Lydia's Thoughts: “It was really good.  I think the characters were really cool, and my favorite character was Isabella (Mirabel's sister).  I loved that she could make magic flowers.  I liked the music a lot, and the movie wasn't scary at all.”

Is It Scary: I'm actually surprised this movie was rated PG, I would have thought it would be rated G.  There is nothing “scary”….but a few slightly creepy moments.

What Ages Is It Good For? If your child is old enough to sit through a movie….then they're old enough for this one.  It's a GREAT first movie theatre experience and is perfect for younger and older kids!

Encanto: Activities and Merchandise

Like all Disney movies, Encanto has some really fun activities and products to accompany the film.