The Book of Life

Two worlds. One love.

2014 • 95 min • Animation · Family · Fantasy

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Synopsis

The journey of Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart. Before choosing which path to follow, he embarks on an incredible adventure that spans fantastical worlds where he must face his greatest fears.

Our family guide

Best from age 6

Movie Knight Score

2988 reviews

100 Reviewers · 1 · 51%
75 Audience · 2987 · 49%

The Book of Life follows Manolo, a young man caught between family expectations and his true passion for music. He embarks on a vibrant adventure through three fantastical worlds to reunite with his love and decide his own destiny.

Violence & peril: 3/10
Language: 1/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 1/10
Romance & sensuality: 2/10
Scary moments: 4/10

Heads up

Some peril and fantasy creatures in the Land of the Forgotten
Brief bullying scenes
Mild romantic themes and a young children may not understand
A character briefly drinks tequila

What it models well

Following your heart
Overcoming fears
Valuing family and tradition
Self-sacrifice

Talk about it after

Mexican culture and Day of the Dead traditions
Dealing with loss and remembering loved ones
The importance of honesty and loyalty
Finding your own path

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for The Book of Life. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.

Where to watch

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Top billed cast

Director: Jorge R. Gutierrez • Crew: Jorge R. Gutierrez, Doug Langdale

Trailers & clips

Reviewer notes

RecommendedTrusted family reviewers
The big eyes and the slightly cardboard-box style of animation is really quite engaging as we follow the tale of "Manolo". He's an excitable young man who finds himself torn between staying home and living the life his family want him to, and setting off and having some adventures of his own.…
CinemaSerf, TMDB Community