The Book of Life

(Image credit: Reel FX Animation Studio)

Inspired by the legends surrounding Mexico's Day of the Dead, this vibrant animated fantasy bursts with colourful design and offbeat humour

Inspired by the legends surrounding Mexico's Day of the Dead, this vibrant animated fantasy bursts with colourful design and offbeat humour.

The story is engaging, as well, as two conniving gods bet on the outcome of a romantic triangle involving guitar-strumming reluctant bullfighter Manolo (voiced by Diego Luna), his heroic soldier friend Joaquín (Channing Tatum) and the mayor's feisty daughter María (Zoe Saldana).

On the soundtrack, Latin-tinged versions of familiar songs, such as Radiohead's Creep, add to the film's quirky feel.