Elio Review: New Pixar Movie Is Fun & Powerful

Imagine if the initial encounter between Earth and extraterrestrial life was not a seasoned scientist or brave soldier, but an imaginative, slightly awkward 11-year-old boy named Elio. Pixar’s latest space exploration, titled Elio, takes this concept and spins it into a captivating, brilliant journey that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. With its blend of heartfelt emotions, comedic moments, and just the right amount of interstellar turbulence, this animated saga seamlessly combines childhood vulnerability with an epic cosmic journey of self-discovery. Once again, Pixar demonstrates their knack for reaching for the stars, while still making a lasting impact here on Earth.

This film seems reminiscent of beloved 80s and 90s family movies, combined with the captivating charm of Pixar productions. The protagonist, young Elio (portrayed by Yonas Kibreab), has recently experienced a tragic loss of his parents, much like characters such as Elliott from E.T., Daniel LaRusso from Karate Kid, and Mikey from The Goonies. We find ourselves connecting and empathizing with Elio just as we did with these iconic characters. As the story unfolds, Elio’s curiosity about space becomes central, leading to some amusing scenes where he attempts to be abducted by aliens. He gets into a scuffle with a schoolyard bully, ending up with a temporary eye patch, and eventually manages to establish communication with the extraterrestrial beings he had always yearned to encounter.

Beginning our journey, we embark on a breathtaking, enchanting tale filled with wonder for viewers young and old. Featuring delightful animation and character designs created in Pixar’s fresh, unique style, Elio skillfully crafts its captivating universe by giving us insights into alien life and society from a child’s perspective. This film serves as a reminder of the magical curiosity within each one of us. With an emotionally resonant narrative void of any negativity, it offers pure delight wrapped in an animated escapade – a testament to Pixar’s exceptional storytelling prowess.

Just like Pixar’s other films, “Elio” boasts a sophisticated humor that appeals equally to both children and adults. In fact, some of its jokes are even more impactful when viewed through adult eyes. This movie is incredibly humorous with a delightful sense of wit. However, similar to other top-tier Pixar productions, it also delves into serious themes. Elio finds himself without his parents and struggling to connect with Aunt Olga, who is stretched thin between her obligations and may not always be ready for the role of caregiver. Their relationship remains strained, causing Elio to seek a place where he feels valued. Coincidentally, this quest takes him on an intergalactic journey.

In a surprising turn of events, Elio presents himself as Earth’s chief to extraterrestrial beings, initially appearing to be a lofty role. However, he quickly realizes that they all face a genuine danger. Saving the world isn’t an easy feat, but it becomes more manageable when he encounters an alien named Glordon, portrayed by Remy Edgerly. Elio, brimming with vitality and charm, is not without flaws, yet his unwavering dedication to his interests shines bright. Kibreab delivers a remarkable voice performance. However, Glordon manages to outshine everyone, captivating the audience. Their bond is heartwarming, and Glordon is undeniably adorable. I find myself utterly smitten with this character. If given the chance, I’d risk everything for him.

Edgerly delivers an outstanding portrayal, just like Zoe Saldaña, who won an Oscar as Aunt Olga. This character feels incredibly real. What makes her stand out is that you can sense a rich past she’s carrying before the movie’s events. She’s dealing with so much amidst the film’s happenings, and her complexities are masterfully written. These performances breathe life into a heartwarming story. I hope more people get to experience this vibrant, enchanting production, particularly those eager for original films hitting theaters.

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Although I’m really looking forward to numerous films releasing this summer and appreciate the quality of movies we’ve been seeing, it’s worth noting that from May to August, most major releases are either sequels, remakes, or adaptations of existing properties. The importance of originality in cinema should not be overlooked, so when an exceptional original film comes out, it’s essential to show our support. “Elio,” produced by Pixar, is a prime example of this – it’s heartwarming, visually stunning, and filled with emotion. It combines grand intergalactic action with a personal story about self-discovery, solitude, and bonding. Kibreab delivers an exceptional vocal performance as a character who finds himself in the limelight while still grappling with his identity. This funny, exciting, and deeply touching journey serves as a reminder that even the quietest voices can have a profound impact.

SCORE: 8/10

According to ComingSoon’s review guidelines, a score of 8 signifies “Great.” Although there are a few minor flaws, this rating suggests that the artwork accomplishes its objective effectively and leaves a lasting impression.

Disclosure: ComingSoon attended a press screening for our Elio review.

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2025-06-17 19:10