Throughout Disney’s heavily praised animated feature Encanto, Dolores makes a particular “squeaking” sound rooted in Colombian culture. Encanto centers on the Madrigals, a Colombian family that is blessed with a miracle after having to flee their village. This miracle gives the family a new, enchanted home and each child a magical gift—except the youngest daughter, Mirabel.
While Encanto does not specify the exact location of the Madrigal’s town, the animated musical draws heavily upon its rural Colombian setting. This shapes Encanto’s environment, which features Wax Palm trees, coffee plantations, and animals like toucans, jaguars, and capybaras. Colombian culture also influenced the family values and characters portrayed in Encanto. The Madrigals not only wear traditional clothing but enjoy foods like arepas and coffee. Encanto’s songs emphasize the importance of music in Colombian culture, blending common musical styles such as Vallenato, Champeta, and salsa. In addition, one subtler way Encanto represents Colombian culture is through characters’ mannerisms.
