ARTS

We don’t talk about Bruno, but can we talk about ‘Encanto’?

By MINA ROWLAND

JUSTICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

**Spoilers ahead for those who have not seen the film. Song references are in parentheticals.**

A fair number of us know and remember well the power of Disney magic from pixie dust to “Pocahontas.” I grew up with classics like “Beauty and The Beast,” “The Lion King,” and “Bambi,” but as a child I did not have a lot of interest in watching Disney, which is quite a shock considering how obsessed I am now. I rarely watched Disney after their early films. Regardless, when “Encanto” came out, the world was obsessed (if you have met me, I know I am not alone in my obsessions).

When the trailer first came out I knew I was going to like it — I promise you it is not because I love “Hamilton,” “Moana,” and “In the Heights.” The first reason was the main character had such a unique name, Mirabel: a name that my sister happens to share. Secondly, the animation at Disney is so stunning (I can see peach fuzz on Luisa’s neck), and the emotions we can see in each character gives them a layer of realism that has not necessarily been present in other movies. Last but not least, the story line is so closely connected to family and does not follow the typical Disney story arc. As we have seen with Disney’s last few films, the main character has on inner conflict (with ice powers, a love for water, or an obsession with dragons) and focuses less on a love interest.

“Encanto” is no different. I, a theater kid and an art nerd, thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the film. The story follows a multigenerational family called the Madrigals, where all the family members have magical gifts that allow them to help their community by way of a magical candle.

Unfortunately, Mirabel is the “only Madrigal kid with no gift,” though I would argue she does have a gift — we’ll get back to that later. The movie is set near the 20th century in Colombia after a war, and the encanto, Spanish for “charmed or enchanted,” is a sacred and protected land between two mountains, which Abuela describes as “a refuge” and “a place of wonder.” The family consists of Alma, also known as “Abuela,” who has triplets: Julieta, whose power is cooking that heals, Bruno, who can see into the future, and Pepa, who can control the weather. Julieta married Agistín, who has no gift. Their daughters are Mirabel, who seemingly has no gift, Luisa, who has super strength, and Isabela, who has phytokinesis: the ability to control plants. Pepa married Félix, and their children are Dolores, who has super hearing, Camilo, who can shapeshift, and their youngest Antonio, who gets his zoolingualism gift during the film, which allows him the ability to communicate with animals. The song, “The Family Madrigal,” does a better job describing the family and their talents.

Over the course of the film, the magic of the encanto starts to falter and Abuela blames Mirabel, who is not at fault. Mirabel resolves to fix the magic on her own. She talks to her siblings only to discover that everyone is equally as miserable even though they have powers — Luisa is on the verge of breaking from too much pressure, and Isabela fears she’ll never be perfect enough. Mirabel eventually asks the big question ‘What’s up with Bruno?’, leading to the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” which is at the top of the U.S. music charts. She finally finds him, only to discover he has been hiding in the walls of the house the entire time. She questions Bruno and he explains he left because his visions already led to him being ostracized and he wanted to protect her since the last vision showed her in the middle of the Casita, the house’s name falling apart. He couldn’t tell if she was causing the cracks or not because his vision was out of order. After much convincing from Mirabel and extra help from Antonio, Bruno agrees to have another vision where he sees that Mirabel must make amends with her sister Isabela and hug. She seems irritated at first, exclaiming “Issa-bela!”, but accepts nonetheless. She tries to talk to Isabela and quickly get to the hug, but Isabela is furious that she ruined her engagement. Nonetheless, she realizes that she never wanted to get married in the first place. After Isabela confesses her disdain for perfection both sisters see casita healing itself. Immediately after, they rebuild a strong sisterly camaraderie (in song form, of course; “What Else Can I Do?”) between Mirabel and Isabela.

Immediately after, Abuela and Mirabel get into a fight about who is really at fault. Mirabel defends herself, standing up to Abuela for the first time. But Abuela is persistent and blames Luisa for losing her strength, Isabela’s ruined proposal and Casita’s cracks. Abuela is blinded by everyone’s gifts and feels that everything must be perfect. During their argument, the cracks reappear and grow larger. It seems that Abuela is never satisfied, and the house eventually collapses. Everyone is trying to escape the house, while Mirabel is trying to save the candle. She grabs the candle, only for it to go out despite her attempts to save the flame. Casita protects her as the rest of the house crumbles. Mirabel quietly leaves and finds solace at a river, where she and Abuelatalk about the past and why she felt the need for everyone to be perfect. They embrace as well and she realizes that the gift is not the candle or their talent, but family.

“Encanto” breaks so many stereotypes. The level of diversity is empowering to see on screen, especially in animated form. The casting choices included many newcomers in the field of acting and a talented group that allows for authentic cultural representation. Within the animation, a broad range of diversity is showcased from skin tone to different body types.

In the last few scenes, we see the Madrigal family and their community help them rebuild their home and their relationships. Most importantly, when Mirabel touches the door handle for the Madrigal house, not only is everything restored, but she is officially given her gift: she can control the house and will follow in Abuela’s footsteps. This is just a theory of course, but she is the only one who openly communicates with Casita, and it seems she would be the next leader of her family. After everyone enters Casita, each character lets go of the expectations of perfection and is comfortable being their true selves. Luisa takes a much needed break, Pepa happily dances under her hail flurries, and Isabela cheerfully uses her power to make plants of all varieties. In the very last shot we see the perfectly imperfect family all together and genuinely happy.

Overall the film presents some important themes such as family, trauma, and the importance of love from family, with a specific focus on exploring different family dynamics rather than focusing on just one type of love. The film simply tells a story about a family in need of spiritual healing. “Encanto,” like the Madrigals, is a sweet, charming, and magical experience.

MINA ROWLAND/the Justice MIRABEL: Voiced by Stephanie Beatriz, the heroine of the film Mirabel Madrigal is the only non-magical member of her family.

DIABOLO: Nova Diabolo, a Massachusetts-based Chinese Yoyo performance group, was invited to perform at the culture show.

Catching up with Abbott Elementary

By JASON FRANK

JUSTICE STAFF WRITER

ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” is currently on a break, which means it’s the perfect time to catch up with the first exciting network sitcom in years.

Part of the excitement is simply based on ratings. The second episode of “Abbott Elementary” brought in the highest ratings for a network sitcom since the “Modern Family” finale, which is in itself a feat. Network TV has been falling in ratings since the streaming era began, so to see a sitcom become a legitimate hit in its first season, without any stars and without being a spinoff, is a shock.

The other half of the excitement, and the part that’s more important here, is the quality of “Abbott Elementary.”

The show is set in the Philadelphia public school system and follows teachers as they attempt to navigate their lack of budget, unruly kids, and personal relationships. It’s a classic example of the workplace sitcom, a genre that reached a creative peak in the 2000s and 2010s with shows like the American version of “The Office,” “30 Rock,” and “Parks and Recreation.”

“Abbott Elementary” is indebted to many of those shows creatively (like “The Office” and “Parks and Rec,” it’s done in a mockumentary style), but it manages to update and expand the genre in exciting ways creatively.

The creator and star is Quinta Brunson, who first achieved fame comedically on the internet through viral videos and her work at Buzzfeed. The big change she makes to the format of the network workplace sitcom is to focus “Abbott Elementary” squarely on systemic issues that the Philadelphia school system faces today. Philadelphia feels like a real city in “Abbott,” one whose situation Brunson and her writers are directly drawing on and discussing. Whereas “Parks and Rec”’s version of Pawnee felt like a parody of the Midwest, and “The Office” was only nominally set in Scranton, “Abbott” draws its comedy from issues like the lack of funding that Philadelphia teachers receive, and gains real perspective because of it. That perspective makes the show feel fresher than its recently staid genre would typically allow.

The other big change to the workplace sitcom is, to be blunt about it, that the cast is predominately Black. Though high-quality network sitcoms centered on Black families have existed since the ‘70s, fewer workplace comedies about Black workplaces have been greenlit at this level. That would be exciting enough, but what’s even better is that Brunson uses this to her full advantage creatively: writing plots about step teams, including a well-meaning but often clueless white teacher who can be made fun of, and allowing Black characters the full breadth of the sitcom archetypes.

But beyond just perspective and casting, it’s important that “Abbott Elementary” is the one thing any sitcom needs to be: really, really funny. The standout in the cast is Janelle James, who plays Ava, the school’s principal. She is an unhinged diva of the Jenna Maroney variety, but now with legitimate power, which makes her even funnier.

Sheryl Lee Ralph continues to cement her icon status as Barbara, one of the more seasoned teachers at “Abbott.” In other hands, Barbara could be a bore, as a full-blown professional who is rarely thrown off her game is not classic sitcom fodder. But, instead of playing the straight man, Ralph finds just as much fun in her characterization as the other cast members, managing to create infinite versions of a closelipped smile for any situation, all of them funny. And, when she is occasionally called on to be in the wrong, she’s all the funnier for it. Brunson is the lead of the show as Janine, a permanently optimistic new-ish teacher who constantly pushes forward despite just as constant setbacks. Brunson has done fantastic work quickly defining Janine’s relationships in the show with each of the other leads: she’s in a classic will-theywon’t-they relationship with Tyler James Williams’ stick-in-themud substitute teacher Gregory; she sees Barbara as a mother figure despite Barbara’s general apathy toward her; she is in an antagonistic relationship with the carefree Ava, etc. Those clearly defined and wide-reaching relationships are a necessity for any sitcom that wishes to run for an extended period, which “Abbott” is surely aiming for.

If there’s a critique to be made of the show, it’s that it is occasionally too indebted to classic sitcom beats. While the will-theywon’t-they is a classic, enjoyable plot, it is, as of now, the only extended arc of the season. While sticking to self-contained plots used to be sitcom standard, “Abbott” is likely to be consumed moving forward by streaming audiences, even if it didn’t originate there, and streaming necessitates extended plots to keep audience interest. It’s likely that Brunson and her writers put these plots aside in order to have time to sketch their characters, but the constant same-ness of the format can become difficult. “Abbott”’s inspirations in the mockumentary style mined extended plots for both emotional and comedy gold as they progressed, and “Abbott” will be all the better when it starts doing the same.

Ultimately, though, this critique is not cause for concern. “Abbott Elementary” is smart enough, original enough, and funny enough to hold your interest through its breezy nine episode run. When it comes back, I’d make sure you’re watching.

PHOTO STORY

Hooked on Tap presents Cha(HOT)ic Kitchen Tap Show

By MEGAN LIAO

JUSTICE EDITOR

FORMATIONS: The seniors in the dance group enjoyed their final performance.

STAFF’S Top Ten

JACK YUANWEI CHENG/the Justice

Top 10 things to do if you have an awkward amount of time between classes

By ISABEL ROSETH

JUSTICE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

1. Take a nap (if you live on campus) 2. Ride the BranVan around campus just for fun 3. Wait awkwardly in Upper Usdan before getting lunch with a friend 4. Wait in line at Dunkin’ 5. “Study” in the library 6. Get lost in the Shapiro Science Center 7. Try to find a table in Lower Usdan 8. Take the longest route between your classes and then stand around 9. Walk up and down the Rabb steps 10. Window shop at the Hoot Market

HOROSCOPES

By MADDY DULONG

JUSTICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

MEGAN LIAO/the Justice

Aries

Take it easy this week, Aries! Mercury, the communication planet, is exiting Aquarius and entering Pisces in your twelfth house, which rules dreams, emotions, and secrets on March 9, meaning your emotions, dreams, etc. might be glossed-over. Take the time to allow yourself to rest and recharge during this time, as clear, concise communication may be hard to come by. Also, Thursday is a quarter moon in Gemini; this can provide some emotional insight for you this week. If you are worried or unsure about something, this could be the time to reconsider, and perhaps things will be illuminated for you! Don’t fret, Aries, your time is coming in just a few short weeks when the Sun enters Aries on March 20, and Mercury enters Aries on March 27!

Taurus

Teamwork is key this week for you! Mercury enters Pisces this week in your eleventh house, which governs social circles and your reception in society. Consider how you come off to people, and perhaps make some changes if anything doesn’t align with how you want to present yourself. First impressions are everything; make them count! Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini in your second house of finances and values is really giving “it’s all about who you know” vibes. Take the time this week to remember that everyone you work with is a real person, and creating healthy professional relationships with those you work with can help you out of some really sticky situations in the future.

Gemini

Mercury enters Pisces in your tenth house of ambition and success this Wednesday. While Mercury is in this sign, you will have opportunities to show your skills and step into the role of leader, if that’s what you want. Remember that showing your unique skills and personality can get you where you want to go in the future, so it is never a bad idea to take the reins on a project you know you can succeed on. Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini can help clear up any unsure emotions you may be feeling this week. Reflect on your behavior, and ask yourself what you really want to put out into the world, and if you are currently doing so. Cancer

Planning a trip sometime soon? Mercury enters dreamy Pisces in your ninth house of travel and adventure this Thursday! If you aren’t traveling this week, or are unable to do so, perhaps plan a vacation for later, especially when it gets warmer out. Even if it isn’t far, just exploring further in Waltham, or in the greater Boston area, could give you that “escape” feeling without needing to board a plane. With the quarter moon in Gemini this Thursday, keep an eye out for “coincidences,” signs, or symbols. This quarter moon lands in your twelfth house of feelings, dreams, and spirituality, so keep an eye out for any strange dreams you may have this week or strange coincidences, even if it’s just something as simple as two people recommending the same TV show. Virgo

Love is in the air this week! With Mercury entering Pisces in your seventh house of partnership, communication is key in any partnership or relationship for you this week. Even if you are not currently in a relationship, any partnership applies to this, like a best friend or even just a work partner. Make sure you communicate clearly and effectively this week: you don’t want anything getting mixed up in translation! If you have been holding something back from someone, this might be the time to open up to them. Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini lands in your tenth house of social status and your career. Take some time this week to think about your career plan, and maybe make an appointment at Hiatt or academic advising to see if you are on track for your goals! Capricorn

Energy is through the roof this week as Mercury enters Pisces in your third house of communication and transportation! With the warmer weather in store for this week, you may find a plethora of opportunities to go out and enjoy this change. Look around for opportunities to go out of your comfort zone! Remember, the third house is also the communication center and with Mercury the communication planet in this house, you are the communication master this week. If you have an essay or writing assignment you’ve been avoiding, this may be the time to start on that. Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini may give you that extra push that you need as well, as this quarter moon falls in your sixth house of organization. Make sure you don’t put too much on your plate, though!

Leo

This week you are a magnet, Leo! With communication planet Mercury entering Pisces in your eighth house of seduction, you will have no problems winning people over this week. This looks like a good thing, but keep an eye on who wants to move into your inner circle this week, keep energy around that aligns with your own, and don’t make exceptions. Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini lands in your eleventh house of social circles and impressions! Reach out to those in your inner circle if you find yourself needing help this week, and be proactive. Know what you want and what you need, and don’t be afraid to ask for it if you know someone can help you. Libra

After Mercury exits your creative fifth house and enters Pisces in your sixth house of organization and well-being this Wednesday, it is time to focus! Make sure you are taking care of yourself (a little self-care never hurt anyone and consider how stress affects your life). Maybe keep track of habits that may not be helping your general well-being looking at your screen time can help, even if it provides some harsh truths. This Thursday, the quarter moon in Gemini lands in your ninth house of travel and philosophy. Open yourself up to some more imaginative thinking this week; it might lead you down some paths you never would have taken before! Aquarius

Consider your priorities this week, as Mercury enters Pisces in your second house of money and securities on Wednesday! Analytical Mercury can help you take hold of your finances and budget if you had maybe started this year off a little too excited. Consider your spending this week, keep track of any unnecessary spending – this would be the opportunity to get that under control. The upcoming quarter moon in Gemini in your fifth house of relationships on Thursday can help you turn your attention onto a special person in your life! Consider what relationships align with your needs and those that don’t this week. Plan for your future, and carefully consider who you want in your future, and who you don’t.

Scorpio

The energy is rising in your life, Scorpio! Mercury moves from Aquarius to Pisces in your fifth house of creativity and romance this Wednesday. Put in a little extra effort to celebrate this extra energy you have and wear that outfit you’ve been meaning to wear but haven’t gotten around to yet! Allow this creativity and energy to take over this week and you might be pleasantly surprised what you get yourself into. Keep an eye out this week with the quarter moon in Gemini in your controlling eighth house on Thursday – it might bring to light some consequences of your previous actions. Give yourself an opportunity to see these consequences and correct them if needed. Sagittarius

After your energetic start to the year, you might be taken down a notch or two with Mercury entering Pisces in your fourth house of family and home this Wednesday. This can change your focus inward onto yourself, your familial relationships, and your living situation. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to isolate yourself, though, so take the time to reach out to your family or roommates and spend some quality time with them! This also comes into play on Thursday when the quarter moon falls into Gemini in your seventh house of partnership. Take the time to ask for help when you need it, and consider what you value in a partner this week. Pisces

How has Pisces season been treating you thus far? It is about to get even better as Mercury, the communication planet, enters your sign of Pisces this Wednesday in your first house of self! Definitely don’t waste any of this extra energy, take this opportunity to enjoy it, and be the main character of your own story this season! Don’t second guess yourself this week, and be confident in your decisions and ideas. There will be obstacles along the way this season, but isn’t there always? You have the power to jump over the hurdles and truly succeed this week! Thursday’s quarter moon in Gemini in your fourth house of family and home might force you to slow down a bit at the end of this week. Take this time to practice some self care, call your family, or redecorate your room!