by Tim Gordon
Elio tells the poignant story of a young boy, grieving the loss of both of his parents and now under the care of his aunt, trying to navigate a world that feels cold and unwelcoming.
Feeling isolated and abandoned, Elio longs to be abducted by aliens, hoping for a new community where he can truly belong. Armed with a rudimentary ham radio, he creates a “club” not to make friends, but to gain more power in his quest to communicate with the cosmos. The film underscores the cautionary tale of being careful what you wish for, as Elio’s wish is granted when he’s chosen as Earth’s Ambassador to intergalactic beings. But his newfound responsibility comes with lessons about acceptance, personal growth, and understanding his place in the world.
Featuring an impressive ensemble voice cast, including Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldaña, Remy Edgerly, Brandon Moon, Brad Garrett, and Jameela Jamil, Elio continues Pixar’s tradition of blending relatable adult themes into animated stories aimed at children. It explores the universal struggle of fitting in while offering a heartwarming and visually striking adventure.
Pixar has once again crafted a film that’s both entertaining and emotionally resonant, likely to be a contender in the animated film category for upcoming awards.
Grade: B+