The Final Jeopardy question on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 tested contestants from the rich tapestry of animated film history in the category, “Animated Film Characters“.
The clue presented was, “In this 2017 film, Dante is a hairless breed known as a Xolo dog.” This question tested contestants’ familiarity with recent animated films, their characters, and even specific breeds of animals depicted within these stories.
What is “Coco”?
The answer is “Coco.” This Pixar masterpiece is celebrated for its vibrant depiction of Mexican culture, music, and the deeply moving themes of family and memory.
Released in 2017, “Coco” quickly became recognized not just as an animated film but as a cultural phenomenon that brought the traditions of the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos to a global audience. The story follows a young boy named Miguel, who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s baffling ban on music. His journey takes him to the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead, where he seeks the help of his deceased musician great-great-grandfather to return him to the living and prove his musical talent.
Dante, the character mentioned in the Final Jeopardy clue, is more than just a sidekick in this tale. As a Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo dog, Dante is not only a guide through the Land of the Dead; he symbolizes the deep-rooted beliefs and traditions surrounding this breed in Mexican culture. Xolos are often considered guardians that guide the spirits of the deceased in the afterlife. Their inclusion in “Coco” is a nod to the rich tapestry of Mexican folklore and an example of Pixar’s commitment to cultural accuracy and depth in storytelling.