The Wasteland Reviewer

Elio (2025) Written Review

What is the state of Pixar? This is probably the most uncertain and concerning time in the life of this animation leader. At one point, every film that Pixar released was a giant financial hit. They were one of the most reliable studios for quality as well in the world of cinema. Once they started focusing on sequels and prequels, things started getting a little inconsistent. There was still Inside Out and Coco, but they started seeing from critical misses. The pandemic saw Pixar getting thrown to Disney+ plus and losing so much credibility and losing a lot of their reputation (despite delivering some strong or excellent films on the service). All that converges to create one giant looming cloud over poor Elio. 

Does the cinematic experience of Elio live up to the Pixar standard? From a visual perspective, this is one of the most gorgeous of the bunch. The animation quality is top notch with everything (and everyone) looking perfectly rendered and fully realizing the vision of directors Madeline Sharafian and Domee Shi. The colors just pop off the screen with vibrance that is engaging and engrossing. The world-building of this alien community up in space is so much fun. There are strong designs for so many of these aliens which draw upon unexpected critters from the real world. The Communiverse is such an inspired and gorgeous place and organization full of so many different types of aliens. The antagonistic Grigon and his race are such an interesting and unique design that makes for some intimidating antagonists and the charming and adorable Glordon (Elio’s new alien friend). Another big standout element of the film is the score from Rob Simonsen. Fittingly otherworldly, the compositions in the film perfectly capture the atmosphere and interstellar wonder of Elio’s grand adventure. The score also channels plenty of motifs from other science fiction films (like all the other references made throughout the film as they homage plenty of iconic sci-fi films). 

Does the film deliver a compelling narrative that matches the impressive visuals of this space adventure? There are plenty of familiar beats (many Pixar greatest hits) as well as some loose narrative beats that don’t always come together. This is not the most unique or strong screenplay coming out of Pixar but there is plenty of heart and soul to make the most of the narrative structure. The orphaned child narrative is done to death in so many of these animated family-oriented films…but Sharafian and Shi make the most of the opening sequence to deliver plenty of emotion. Their dynamic between Elio and his aunt Olga is such a key piece to the film and you feel it, even when the narrative leads to some tropes to brew that conflict. The themes centered on loneliness and finding connection build such a strong base for the film which delivers. The dynamic between Elio and Glordon is such a wonderful connection and makes this film worth the experience. The space action sequences are exciting and thrilling, which makes this film even more satisfying. There might be some elements that feel a bit underdeveloped, but the core of the film delivers such a great cinematic experience. 

Does the voice cast deliver the emotional weight that is expected out of a Pixar film? Yonas Kibreab is a charming and empathetic addition as the titular protagonist. There are so many charming elements that Kibreab brings. The emotional journey that Elio goes on would not work without Kibreab’s empathetic turn. Remy Edgerly is so much fun as Glordon as he brings so much personality and quirk to this wormy alien buddy for Elio. The chemistry between Elio and Glordon is really the core to the whole cinematic experience. Zoe Salanda is such a talented actor, and she brings all the emotional weight and humanity to Elio’s aunt. Her presence and connection to Elio is such a significant piece of the film as well and Salanda keeps it afloat. One of the most fun additions to the whole film is Brad Garrett as the villainous Lord Grigon. His big, boisterous performance is fun but delivers enough menace to make him scary as well. 

Is Elio another strong addition to the Pixar catalogue? This is not quite up to the same level as many of the great films that have been created by Pixar. But Elio is still a truly gorgeous and heartwarming cinematic experience. Heart and soul are key and Sharafian and Shi deliver. This might play around with too many tired elements but that never sinks the experience. Friendship. Space adventure. Love and connection. You find it all in Elio.