A RETURN TO FORM
There was a time when Pixar wasn’t just a trusted name in animation—it was the gold standard. Films like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and especially Inside Out weren’t just technical marvels; they were emotionally resonant, genre-defining stories that connected with kids and adults alike. They made us laugh, cry, reflect, and believe. But in recent years, something’s shifted. The studio that once led with originality seemed caught in a loop—sequels, safe narratives, and films that, while polished, lacked that signature emotional punch.
But Elio might be the movie that puts Pixar back on the map. Back in the hearts of audiences. Back to telling original stories that actually mean something.
Elio tells the story of a young boy navigating grief and identity after losing both of his parents (because, let’s be honest—Disney really has it out for parental figures). Living with his aunt, a high-ranking officer at the U.S. Space Force, Elio stumbles into a moment of quiet obsession while watching a presentation on the Voyager probe. He becomes captivated by the idea of leaving Earth behind—of being abducted, even—because maybe somewhere out there is a place where he truly belongs.
Without giving too much away (you deserve to discover the magic yourself), he gets his wish. The film launches us into a galaxy-spanning adventure filled with interstellar diplomacy, quirky alien civilizations, and an emotional journey of finding one’s voice in a universe that doesn’t always seem to care.
Narratively, Elio is smart, tightly constructed, and layered. The screenplay balances the fantastical with the personal in a way that feels reminiscent of Pixar at its peak. Sure, you’ll see some familiar beats here—Pixar loves a good “outsider becomes the hero” arc—but the execution feels fresh. There are surprises, clever visuals, and world-building touches that elevate the experience beyond just another “kid in space” movie.
Pacing is another high point. The film moves with purpose, never dragging or overstaying its welcome. And as expected, the animation is stunning. Pixar’s design work on the alien worlds is imaginative and distinct—each culture feeling like it has its own rules, aesthetic, and emotional weight. The space visuals alone are worth the ticket.
But it’s the heart of the film that really makes it soar. Elio is ultimately about belonging—how we all carry a desire to be seen, to be known, to find our people. That message, delivered through vibrant visuals and tender storytelling, is something every kid should hear. Honestly? Every adult, too.
Final Verdict: Elio may not be a perfect film, but it’s a meaningful, heartfelt, and visually dazzling return to the kind of storytelling Pixar built its legacy on. A-
What did you think of Elio? Did it tug at your heart like the Pixar classics of old? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it.
Be kind to yourself and to others. — Jake
