Pixar’s latest film, Elio, is a sweet, cosmic coming-of-age tale that leans into the studio’s talent for emotion, world-building, and characters that somehow cry even without eyes.
The story centres around 11-year-old Elio Solis, a quiet kid who spends more time in his imagination than the real world. But when aliens mistakenly abduct him and declare him the official ambassador for Earth, things get wildly out of hand in the best way possible. What follows is a galactic adventure filled with weird and wonderful creatures, identity crises, and that signature Pixar blend of humour and heart.
Visually, Elio is stunning. The alien universe, known as the Communiverse, feels fresh and playful. A neon-drenched dreamscape packed with details that make you want to pause every scene. However, the film’s real strength lies in its emotional weight. Elio isn’t a hero in the traditional sense. He’s soft, sensitive, and a bit unsure of himself, and that’s what makes him so relatable. His journey isn’t just about saving the world; it’s about finding where (and with whom) he belongs.
The supporting cast brings warmth and laughs, with standouts like Glordon, a gooey, overly sincere alien who becomes an unexpected friend. Zoe Saldaña, voicing Elio’s fiercely protective aunt and guardian, brings grounding energy to the otherwise space-bound adventure.
While the pacing in parts may feel slower than some of Pixar’s more high-stakes fare, the emotional payoff is worth the wait. It’s not trying to be a blockbuster. It’s a story about feeling out of place, and what happens when someone finally sees you for who you are.
For kids, it’s a fun, offbeat space story. For adults, it’s a gentle reminder of the awkwardness of growing up and the beauty of being chosen just as you are.
