Pixar’s new original, Elio, traffics in cosmic wonder and heartfelt themes. Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, and Adrian Molina, the story follows 11‑year‑old Elio Solis (voiced by Yonas Kibreab). Grieving the loss of his parents, Elio longs for connection and is accidentally beamed to the “Communiverse”—a diplomatic alien realm—where he’s mistaken for Earth’s ambassador. From the opening scene, Elio captures that bittersweet Pixar feel: bereavement, misfit youth, and space-age discovery. Critics applaud its imaginative visuals, vibrant world-building, and emotional cores, especially Elio’s bond with his slimy, endearing alien friend, Glordon. Many note charming nods to 1980s sci-fi and Carl Sagan-style cosmic curiosity that elevate its appeal.
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Yet, echoes of earlier Pixar originals—and even sequels—resonate strongly here. Reviewers point to a narrative that feels derivative: the lonely outsider discovering that uniqueness is their superpower. The grieving hero becoming an accidental savior adds weight, but the film’s execution often comes off as emotionally predictable. Critics are divided. Vanity Fair lamented that Elio “falls short in delivering the emotional depth characteristic of Pixar’s golden era”. AP News rated it 2.5/4, applauding the heartfelt visuals and family themes while lamenting its heavy-handed structure. Polygon and The Daily Beast echoed similar critiques, praising imagination but cautioning that plot complexity and formulaic arcs hold the film back.
But there’s optimism. Gizmodo’s review called Elio “Pixar at its most original,” celebrating the sci-fi sincerity and emotional honesty. The connection between Elio and Glordon “gives Elio his excellent heart”. Rotten Tomatoes compiled generally positive reviews, noting inventive world-building, humor, and emotional resonance. Box office forecasts remain guarded. Early projections place the opening weekend between $35–45 million, comparing it to Onward and Elemental, while some insiders predict a more modest $27–34 million. With a production budget of around $150 million, theatrical success may hinge on word-of-mouth and family audiences.
Elio’s strengths lie in its colorful artistry, heartfelt core, and cosmic charm. Where it falters is in storytelling, familiarity, and story cohesion. For fans craving Pixar-level creativity, the film delivers in visual flair and emotional intent, but those yearning for the studio’s most transcendent work may find it falls short. Ultimately, Elio offers a warm, entertaining journey for families and sci-fi lovers alike. Its imperfections—predictable arcs and structural wobbles—don't erase the imaginative ambition or tender moments. As Pixar continues to explore new frontiers, Elio represents both their strengths and their growing pains.
