Elio: Pixar’s Heartfelt but Uneven Leap into the Cosmos
So, I just saw Elio , Pixar’s latest animated feature, and I have to say—while it may not be a genre-defining classic, it’s definitely worth talking about. Especially if you’ve got kids, or just a soft spot for emotional, cosmic storytelling. Think of it as Pixar’s answer to E.T. , but with a lot more aliens, vibrant intergalactic visuals, and an unmistakably modern touch. It’s about a lonely kid, a space misunderstanding, and a whole lot of heart.
The story centers on Elio Solis, an 11-year-old boy still grieving the loss of his parents, now living with his aunt Olga, a tough-as-nails U.S. Air Force major. He’s isolated, introspective, and obsessed with the stars. He even made up a private language that he used with his parents, which now he only speaks to himself. When aliens unexpectedly make contact with Earth, Elio—by complete accident—ends up answering the call and is whisked away to a far-off galactic council called the Communiverse.
Here’s where things take a wild turn: the aliens, having done zero research on Earth apparently, assume Elio is the planet’s leader. Instead of correcting them, he plays along. And just like that, this misfit kid is thrust into the role of ambassador in an alien world.
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What works here is the charm of Elio’s character, voiced wonderfully by Yonas Kibreab. He’s relatable and quirky, and his bond with Glorgon—the awkward son of the film’s big bad, Lord Grigon—provides both comic relief and emotional resonance. Glorgon, who doesn’t want to follow in his father’s warmongering footsteps, might actually steal the show. Their friendship becomes the core of the film, highlighting themes of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance.
Visually, the film is stunning. Pixar leans hard into imaginative world-building, creating shimmering galaxies and gooey alien designs that feel both playful and immersive. There’s even some Carl Sagan audio clips thrown in, which adds a surprisingly profound tone, contrasting with the otherwise whimsical vibe of the movie.
But here's the thing— Elio doesn’t quite hit the emotional peaks we’ve come to expect from Pixar. It has the setup for tear-jerking moments, but they often fall short. Some scenes cut away just when things are about to get deeply touching. The film also juggles a few too many storylines. Olga’s character, for instance, is sorely underused. We get hints of her being a strong, complex woman juggling military duty and guardianship, but she’s mostly sidelined in favor of alien adventures.
Ultimately, Elio is a welcome original entry in a year crowded with sequels and reboots. It’s ambitious, visually arresting, and filled with fresh characters. While it may not deliver the gut-punch moments of Up or Inside Out , it still brings warmth and a unique take on the “child-meets-alien” formula. Kids will enjoy it, and adults—especially those with a love for cosmic wonder and quirky storytelling—will find moments of brilliance.
Is it Pixar’s best? No. But does it have a weird, lovable charm that sticks with you? Absolutely.
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