Lin-Manuel Miranda has teamed up with Sony Animation to create their first-ever venture into the realm of musicals and now it would seem that Netflix have acquired the rights for the project.
Vivo follows the musical story of a kinkajou (aka a rainforest “honey bear”), voiced by Miranda, who spends his days performing for the masses in a bustling Havana square with his beloved companion Andrés (voiced by the Buena Vista Social Club musician, Juan de Marcos González).
The honey bear and his companion are then thrust into turmoil after Andrés receives a letter from an old flame (voiced by Gloria Estefan). Kinkajou must respond to a musical love letter of his own to help his owner in the quest for love.
The movie sees the Oscar-nominated director Kirk DeMicco (The Croods) team up with Brandon Jeffords (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) at the helm, with Miranda himself providing the music.
Miranda said in a statement: “Bringing Vivo to life has been an incredible artistic journey. I couldn’t ask for better creative partners than Kirk, Quiara, Alex and the entire team at Sony Animation. I’m so excited Vivo will have a home at Netflix, where kids of all ages will be able to enjoy the film’s songs and adventures again and again.”
It was a sentiment that co-director, DeMicco added to by announcing: “I speak for everyone who helped make Vivo when I say we couldn’t be happier that our film can soon be enjoyed safely by millions of families on Netflix.”
The project was originally due for a cinematic release on June 4th 2021, but since Netflix has now acquired the rights it is unclear when it will land on the platform. With the project reportedly completed, however, it shouldn’t be too long before fans get a chance to watch.
