It’s officially November, which means it’s a day for remembrance as well as the celebration of life. Otherwise known as Día de Los Muertos.
Moreover, Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) isn’t the Mexican version of Halloween.
Although they seem similar, even slightly related, it’s vastly different in terms of tone and traditions.
While Halloween’s become a night of debauchery and fun, the original pagan religious festival was to welcome the harvest and usher in “the dark half of the year.” During Samhain, celebrants wore costumes to ward off ghosts.
Whereas Día de Los Muertos is a welcoming celebration of life and the deceased.
Taking place between October 31 through November 2nd, where spirits are welcome to walk among us.
The days are dedicated to the departed in three parts:
October 31st for those in limbo, those that weren’t born or baptized. November 1st for kids otherwise referred to as angelitos (angels). November 2nd is for adults.
Although traditions vary among regions, the most representative element is building altars that take shape in the first days, which are allegorical representations mixed with imagery of indigenous and Catholic backgrounds.
Adding essentials until reaching its peak on November 2nd. Photos of loved ones, candles, flowers (marigolds), along with symbolic use of calacas or Calaveras (skeletons and skulls).
Equally significant is having ofrendas (offerings) to honor the deceased.
Certain foods are representative like pan de Muertos (bread of the dead); however, ofrendas can be the favorite food or beverages of the dearly departed. Along with leaving possessions, of the deceased, at their graves (or alters) for life-affirming vigils.
Furthermore, cempasúchil’s (marigolds) are crucial.
We believe that spirits visit the living during the celebration, and marigolds guide the spirits to and from, especially to their respective familial altars, using the marigolds’ vibrant colors and scents.
Marigolds represent the fragility of life.
Additionally, one of my favorite things about Día de Los Muertos is the parades.
In the 2015 Sam Mendes directorial of the James Bond film, Spectre, the opening sequence features an intricately planned Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City. No such parade ever took place in Mexico City until one year later due to the film’s interest and the government’s desire to promote Mexican culture.
Parade photo courtesy of BBC.
Although the theme’s macabre for some, Mexican culture accepts death as a part of life’s cycle.
Paying respects to the departed souls while commemorating their lives.
Making it so much more than just sugar skulls, skeleton make-up, or “funky” costumes.
Ultimately, understanding why we celebrate the deceased is just one step closer to a cultural appreciation of traditions.
Lastly, if you’re interested and would like to see more about Día de Muertos, here are some of our films picks below.
Macario (1960)
The Roberto Gavaldón directorial is based on the novel by the same name by author B. Traven and is the very first Mexican production to be nominated at the Oscars for the Best Foreign Language Film.
Macario’s (Ignacio López Tarso) is an impoverished indigenous man who visits three mysterious deities. Weaving in and out of magical realism, the film’s stunning and a must-watch for this holiday.
The Halloween Tree (1993)
The Halloween Tree was adapted from author Ray Bradbury’s 1972 novel of the same name in 1993 by producers Hanna-Barbera for Cartoon Network. It’s even narrated by Ray Bradbury and features the iconic Leonard Nimoy.
The film’s about a group of young friends who have to save one of their friends’ souls; while some argue that it’s a little dark for kids, we think that’s what makes it special.
Kids are smart, and talking about death should be discussed with openness so that they’re not afraid of death.
The Book of Life (2014)
The Book of Life was brought to life by a famed Mexican director and producer Guillermo del Toro and extraordinary animator Jorge R. Gutiérrez.
This film’s version of Día de Muertos is spritely and vibrant, along with being stylistically different from other animated films at the time because the character resembles wooden figures, resulting in absolutely gorgeous animations and bewitching songs.
This film’s a must-watch not just for kids; it’s for everyone.
Spectre (2015)
Spectre sees James Bond (Daniel Craig) in Mexico City, as well as Rome, where he meets the widow (Monica Bellucci) of an infamous criminal.
Filmed during Día de Los Muertos, the film helped usher in a whole new tradition in Mexico (see above), which is why we made sure to add the film to our list.
Coco (2017)
Coco‘s the box-office hit with such cultural significance but also made so many of us cry.
The Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina directorial follows twelve-year-old Miguel Rivera living in Santa Cecilia, Mexico, and loves music. The tricky thing is, Miguel’s family has forbidden it, which sparks an inadvertent trip to the Land of the Dead during Día de Los Muertos.
The film’s an absolute must-watch for all ages. However, I especially recommend it for those experiencing bereavement, it may be difficult at times, but it’ll bring you comfort during those stormy days. I speak from personal experience.
