Pixar’s Elio: What Critics Are Saying About the New Family Film
Pixar Animation Studios launches its latest original feature, Elio, into theaters, and the initial wave of critical reviews is arriving. The consensus suggests that while it might not reach the legendary status of the studio’s most beloved classics, Elio is a charming, visually inventive, and emotionally resonant film that represents a strong step for Pixar’s recent output and a definite winner for families.
The story follows Elio, a young boy unexpectedly transported across the galaxy to the Communiverse, where he must navigate a vibrant alien society and find his place.
Overall Reception and Place in the Pixar Legacy
Many critics feel Elio showcases Pixar doing what it does best, reminding them of the studio’s signature imagination, inventiveness, and emotional depth. It’s frequently cited as one of Pixar’s better films in recent years, particularly standing out among titles released since 2017’s Coco. Some reviewers see it as feeling like “vintage Pixar” at its best.
However, not all critics believe Elio reaches the groundbreaking heights of films like Toy Story or Inside Out. It’s sometimes compared more closely to smaller-scale Pixar features such as Luca or Soul, seen as a solid entry that fits comfortably within the studio’s catalog but perhaps lacks the surprising wit or capacity to expand the medium that defined their most revered work.
Visually Stunning World-Building and Animation
A major highlight universally praised by reviewers is the film’s world-building and visual execution. The “Communiverse” is described as dazzling, intricately designed, and brimming with imaginative detail. The alien characters are highlighted for their impressive and unique designs, contributing to the film’s delightful weirdness.
The animation quality is consistently called incredibly polished, beautiful, and effective at drawing viewers into the cosmic setting. While some noted the human designs felt slightly awkward compared to the stunning alien visuals, the overall animation is considered a significant strength that elevates the film.
Narrative Strengths and Stumbles
Reviews for Elio‘s story and script are more mixed. Some critics appreciated how the film tackles mature themes in a way that is simple enough for children to grasp, finding the storytelling relatively straightforward compared to other Pixar narratives that can sometimes feel convoluted. The core message about connection, embracing differences, and the idea that no one is alone is seen as heartfelt and inspiring.
However, many reviewers pointed to significant narrative issues, structural problems, and inconsistent pacing. Some felt the story was disjointed or lacked cohesion, noting that the earth-bound segments, in particular, seemed less compelling than the cosmic adventure.
Humor and Unique Influences
Elio is frequently described as a funny film. The “fish-out-of-water” comedic situations as Elio navigates the alien world are played for laughs, and Elio himself is noted as one of Pixar’s more physically comedic protagonists. Critics generally found the jokes landed well.
A particularly distinctive element highlighted is a subtle, yet notable, horror influence. This includes moments of “entry-level body horror,” which critics found surprising, refreshing, and a welcome jolt of energy, incorporated without making the film inappropriate for a family audience.
Emotional Core and Impact
As is often expected with Pixar films, Elio aims for the heartstrings and delivers emotional moments. Some critics reported being teary-eyed by the end, comparing the film’s capacity for challenging emotional sequences to classics like Finding Nemo or Up. Others felt it leaned melodramatic at times but didn’t quite reach the same intense emotional depth as those films, noting that while the emotional beats hit, it might not leave viewers completely devastated. The film’s quiet, reflective moments, exploring complex ideas and emotional conversations, were particularly appreciated by adult viewers.
Voice Cast and Score
The voice cast received widespread praise, with critics noting that Pixar opted for the “right voice” rather than simply the most popular ones. Yonas Kibreab as Elio and the actor voicing Glordon (often cited as effortlessly funny) earned specific commendation. However, one review felt a prominent supporting voice performance sounded less engaged.
Rob Simonsen’s musical score garnered varied reactions. Many praised it for elevating the film and beautifully complementing its emotional and adventurous tones. Conversely, one review found it generic and occasionally over-the-top.
A Family Winner
Ultimately, despite some criticisms regarding narrative structure, the consensus points to Elio being a successful family film. Its fast pace and dazzling visuals are expected to engage children, while its heartfelt message, emotional moments, and quieter reflections offer depth that will resonate with adults.
While perhaps not an instant Pixar classic on par with their highest achievements, Elio lands with critics as a visually stunning, humorous, and emotionally impactful space adventure that’s a strong entry in the studio’s recent catalog and a charming experience for audiences of all ages.
