The Meaning Behind Ernesto de La Cruz’s Creepy Line in Coco
If you have been following the discussion about the 2017 Pixar film Coco, you may have come across a particularly unnerving line spoken by Ernesto de La Cruz. Ernesto de La Cruz tells Miguel, ‘I hope you die very soon.’ This line has been the subject of much debate, with many people wondering what exactly was Ernesto de La Cruz’s intention.
Understanding the Line: A Closer Look
Upon closer examination, it becomes clear that Ernesto de La Cruz did not say he would die very soon, but rather that he hoped Miguel would die very soon. This subtle difference in wording has significant implications for the interpretation of his statement.
When Ernesto de La Cruz says, “I hope you die very soon,” it’s important to understand the context and the character’s motivations:
Ernesto’s True Intent: Ernesto’s primary objective is to experience the joy of leiée de muerte (the joy of death). He is a representation of the sugar skull personality and his only purpose is to be remembered as joyful and lively. Therefore, Ernesto’s hope for Miguel’s departure to the Land of the Dead is not to be cruel or malevolent but to solidify Miguel’s importance in his leiée de muerte. Personal Connection: Ernesto values the time he has spent with Miguel. He enjoys the connection and the joy shared, and hopes that this time can continue into the Land of the Dead. Ernesto is “beating the bounds” of the rules of the Land of the Dead by attempting to stay bound to the Land of the Living, thus breaching the deal that leiée de muerte must be a finite, joyful time rather than a permanent or grim affair.Why It’s Creepy
What makes Ernesto’s comment especially unsettling is the juxtaposition of the seemingly sincere and affectionate interaction between the two characters against the sinister meaning of the line. On the surface, Ernesto seems genuinely attached to Miguel. However, when he wishes for Miguel’s death, this attachment is revealed as a disturbing intent.
Ernesto’s actions and statements can be seen as a 360-degree turn from the traditional understanding of a soul’s final rest. He is unwilling to let go of the land of the living, leading to a 360 no scope that leaves Miguel and the audience questioning his true nature and intentions.
Interpreting the Statement
Miguel can hear this statement as a mix of affection and a deep sense of loss. While Ernesto’s tone might be friendly, the words ‘hope you die very soon’ are chilling. This combination of warmth and fear creates a complex emotional resonance for the viewer.
From a storytelling perspective, Ernesto’s line serves several purposes:
Character Development: Ernesto’s actions and words reveal a much more complex character than initially meets the eye. His wish for Miguel’s death is a sign of his obsession with leiée de muerte. Thematic Importance: The line underscores the theme of family and memory. Why hope for someone’s death? Because in death, their memory and joy live on, which is Ernesto’s ultimate goal.Conclusion
In conclusion, Ernesto de La Cruz’s line, “I hope you die very soon,” is a deeply unsettling yet significant moment in the film. It challenges viewers to question the true nature of love, memory, and the nature of death itself. Ernesto’s actions and words reveal a character who is both endearing and deeply troubling, serving as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the importance of remembrance.