Elio's (Yonas Kibreab) greatest fantasy is to be lifted by aliens and transported to a far-off place. Elio, who was orphaned and is now being raised by his aunt Olga (Zoe Saldaña), is fascinated by space after visiting the air and space museum. He quickly develops an obsession with communicating with extraterrestrial life, which causes him to clash with Olga and other children his age. To say that Elio is successful in attracting the notice of the aliens is hardly a spoiler, and his quest doesn't end there.

The film begins in a dazzling whirlwind of vivid, colorful landscapes and audaciously made aliens when Elio is first exposed to the Communiverse, an interstellar assembly of intelligent aliens of various kinds.  Elio is so eager to leave his planet that he doesn't correct the various members of the Communiverse who believe he is the leader of Earth. This is a classic case of miscommunication, as the boy must confront Lord Grigon (Brad Garrett), a massive warlord who is eager to destroy the Communiverse after being ignored by it. 

Few films this year feature a character as endearing and instantly likable as Elio.  Although it's mostly concealed behind his desire to be sent to space, he is dealing with something incredibly relatable from the first time he appears on screen, mourning the death of his parents and holding two small astronaut figurines. He feels alone in the universe and doesn't feel like he belongs anywhere. 

One might easily argue that Elio is just about friendship, the marvel of a small boy beaming up to space, and the laugh-out-loud humor.  Like Elio, I found it difficult to comprehend the visually stunning and imaginative world that directors Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi (Turning Red), and Adrian Molina (Coco) had created.  With our feet firmly planted in Elio's shoes, we're all on board and excited to explore more of the Communiverse, even if it could easily become overwhelming.

The arrival of Glordon (Remy Edgerly), Grigon's slug-like son who would prefer to play than turn into a violent warlord, only makes Elio more endearing.  Glordon quickly becomes friends with Elio and expands his world, making him an immediate favorite with audiences due to his naive demeanor and contagious excitement.  Glordon and Elio are undoubtedly two of the most memorable friendships that Disney and Pixar have established throughout the years. 

Elio's voice cast masterfully brings the different characters to life and elevates an already endearing story, with an animated Kibreab in the forefront.  With its many themes of friendship, family, belonging, and discovery, it strikes you squarely in the heart, just like other great Pixar films.  I was particularly moved by a scene that showed the power of solidarity and lending a hand to strangers; it struck a deep chord, and its relevance just made it more poignant.  I loved how this film shows its emotions, and it made me laugh and cry at the same time. 

Pixar has received a lot of attention in the COVID period because of its incredible success and creative output.  Though it barely shows on screen, Elio had some production issues. The film was originally announced in 2022 and was supposed to be released in 2024, but changes in casting and directing, as well as the strikes of the writers and performers last year, caused it to be delayed.  It is as innovative and heartfelt as Pixar's best work, and it serves as a moving reminder that we are not alone, even when it doesn't feel like it.  I'm thankful Elio is the one delivering that message since it's one that we could all use now.  

Overall, Elio Is A Big Win For Pixar

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
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Elio Movie Review

SIBY JEYYA

20/06/2025 12:57 PM