Animation directors Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, and Adrian Molina collaborate to bring their creative talents to the newest Pixar film, “Elio.” Julia Cho, Mark Hammer, and Mike Jones pen the film’s screenplay, which explores what happens when you call out to the universe looking for answers and the universe calls back.
Following the death of his parents, eleven-year-old Elio (Yonas Kibreab), a space fanatic with an active imagination and a huge alien obsession, goes to live with his aunt Olga (Zoe Saldaña), a member of the United States Force. Having trouble adjusting to his new surroundings, Elio’s dreams come when a series of events lead to Elio being s beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide; he’s all in for the epic undertaking.
Mistakenly identified as Earth’s leader, Elio forms new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, including Questa (Jameela Jamil ), a radiant-like alien ambassador, OOOOO (Shirley Henderson), a blue gelatinous liquid supercomputer, and Glordon (Remy Edgerly), a worm-like alien with a heart of gold. However, it’s not all fun and games as Elio must navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and avoid war with Lord Grigon (Brad Garrett), a bulky, worm-like alien warlord and ambassador who is Glordon’s father.
I intentionally avoided watching the trailer for “Elio” because I wanted to experience the film with an open mind and no preconceived notions. Surprisingly, the film’s emotional depth captivated me within the first five minutes. Yonas Kibreab delivers a heartfelt performance as Elio. At the same time, Zoe Saldaña shines as his mother, showcasing their perfect chemistry as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their family bond after a profound loss.
The film finds its emotional core when Elio is transported to a vibrant and imaginative outer space. There, he encounters Glordon, a quirky and endearing alien. Their friendship unfolds beautifully, illustrating themes of companionship, acceptance, and the journey of healing. The poignant moments between them contrast the initial heartache Elio experiences, showcasing how friendship can emerge in the most unexpected places.
While much more takes place in “Elio,” I genuinely believe it is one of those films best experienced with a fresh perspective, just as I did. For those who grew up in the ’80s, the film pays homage to classics like “E.T.,” “Explorers,” and “The Last Starfighter,” with clear nods to their adventurous spirit and heartwarming narratives. These influences are woven seamlessly into the fabric of “Elio,” making it a must-watch for nostalgic viewers and new audiences.
Final Grade: A
“Elio” opens in theaters tomorrow.
