‘Elio’ Review: Pixar’s Fantastical, Familiar World
Pixar Animation Studios returns with Elio, a visually stunning coming-of-age story that transports viewers to breathtaking alien worlds while keeping its emotional core firmly grounded in universal human experiences. The studio’s first original fantasy property since Onward (2020) demonstrates Pixar’s continued mastery of blending cutting-edge animation with heartfelt storytelling, even if it occasionally retreads familiar thematic territory.
A Cosmic Adventure with Heart
The film follows 11-year-old Elio Solis (voiced by newcomer Mateo Gonzalez), an imaginative but socially awkward boy who finds himself unexpectedly appointed as Earth’s galactic ambassador after being abducted by a colorful crew of aliens. What begins as a terrifying experience evolves into a journey of self-discovery as Elio navigates interstellar politics while trying to find his way back home.
Visual Splendor and Technical Achievement
From a technical standpoint, Elio sets a new benchmark for animated filmmaking. The alien civilizations showcase Pixar’s most inventive creature designs since Monsters, Inc., with each species featuring distinct bioluminescent color palettes and fluid, unconventional movement patterns. Particular praise goes to the quantum communication sequences, where conversations ripple through space as shimmering light patterns—a visual metaphor for connection that’s as beautiful as it is technically impressive.
Strengths
- Breathtaking, innovative animation
- Heartwarming central relationship between Elio and his mother
- Fresh alien designs that avoid sci-fi clichés
- Emotionally satisfying third act
Weaknesses
- Some predictable story beats
- Underdeveloped secondary characters
- Pacing lags in middle section
How ‘Elio’ Fits in Pixar’s Legacy
While not reaching the instant-classic status of Pixar’s golden age films, Elio stands comfortably alongside recent successes like Luca and Turning Red. The film shares their focus on adolescent self-discovery but distinguishes itself through its cosmic scale and more overt fantasy elements. Director Adrian Molina (co-director of Coco) brings his signature warmth to the material, particularly in scenes exploring Elio’s relationship with his overworked single mother (voiced by América Ferrera).
The film’s greatest achievement might be making interstellar diplomacy feel personal. When Elio struggles to explain human customs to baffled aliens, these moments cleverly mirror every child’s experience of trying to understand—and be understood by—the adult world.
Final Verdict
Elio proves Pixar hasn’t lost its magic touch for creating worlds that dazzle the eyes while speaking to the heart. While it doesn’t break new narrative ground for the studio, the film’s technical brilliance and emotional sincerity make it one of 2025’s must-see animated features. Families will particularly appreciate its positive messages about embracing differences and finding confidence in one’s unique perspective.
Recommendation: Ideal for Pixar fans, fantasy lovers, and anyone who’s ever felt out of place. The stunning visuals warrant seeing it in 3D if possible. Stay through the credits for a post-credits scene that hints at fascinating possibilities for this new universe.
