The Dark Side of Ernesto De la Cruz: Beyond Villainy and Theft
Ernesto De la Cruz is often remembered as a villainous figure in the animated world of Disney and Pixar's Coco. However, his role in the story goes far beyond simple villainy and the theft of property. De la Cruz's actions have had profound and far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the characters he villainizes but also those he tries to deceive and manipulate.
Ernesto De la Cruz's Deceit and Deprivation
Ernesto De la Cruz's ambition and deceit go beyond just killing Héctor and stealing his possessions. He engages in a series of manipulative and harmful actions that affect the lives of those around him, especially Imelda and Coco. Here, we explore some of the ways in which De la Cruz's behavior extends far beyond mere villainy.
Imelda's Betrayal and Tragic Loss
Imelda Rivera is Héctor's devoted and supportive wife. Despite her doubts about Héctor's leaving for his tour, she trusts him and supports his musical career. Héctor's absence, and the subsequent arrival of Ernesto, fills Imelda with a deep sense of betrayal and emptiness. When Ernesto begins performing Héctor's songs and turns Coco's lullaby into a love song, it becomes evident that Héctor may not have been as invested in his family as Imelda believed.
Imelda's Perception and Ernesto's Deception
Imelda's perspective is distorted by Ernesto's actions. The sweet husband and loving father become a heartless monster who tricked his wife into letting him go on a career-focused tour. Ernesto's manipulation not only betrays Imelda's trust but also poisons her memories of Héctor. This emotional manipulation leaves Imelda in a state of grief and loss, further emphasizing De la Cruz's dark influence.
The Disappearance of Coco's Father
Ernesto De la Cruz deprives Coco of her father in multiple ways. In the Land of the Living, family members are too hurt and angry to acknowledge Héctor's presence, choosing not to talk about him or engage in musical activities. In the Land of the Dead, Imelda, in a moment of pain, orders the family to avoid Héctor. Ernesto also uses his influence to make Héctor believe his death was a punishment for his choice to pursue a career. This manipulation has lasting effects, leading Héctor to give up on music and his identity.
An Unprovoked Murder and Ethical Questions
Ernesto's willingness to kill a child to maintain his fame raises ethical questions. His actions are fueled by self-preservation and a desire to be remembered. However, the morality of his actions is questionable, especially when considering his lack of proof or evidence to support his claims.
Ernesto's Legacy and Aftermath
Ernesto De la Cruz's legacy is one of manipulation and deprivation. He leads Héctor to be forgotten, both in life and death, by taking credit for his songs and avoiding him when passing through the Land of the Dead. This afterlife manipulation affects Héctor's perception of himself and his identity, leading him to believe his death was a punishment for his mistakes. It was only later that Héctor discovered the truth and sought to reclaim what was rightfully his.
Héctor's Transformation and Redemption
Ultimately, the story of Héctor’s transformation from a resentful man to a determined spirit is a testament to the power of love and family. Despite his initial resentment and disillusionment, Héctor eventually comes to understand that his death was not a punishment but a mistake that separated him from his loved ones. He works to reclaim his identity and his place in the family, pushing back against Ernesto's manipulation and ensuring his legacy is remembered as it should be.
Conclusion
Ernesto De la Cruz's character in Coco is multifaceted and complex. Far from just being a simple villain, he serves as a commentary on the dangers of misplaced ambition, manipulation, and the impact of these actions on those we love. The story of Coco is a reminder of the importance of truth, family, and love in overcoming even the darkest of adversaries.