**A Journey Beyond the Stars**: Filled with vibrant characters and groundbreaking animation, Pixar’s **Elio** is the must-see film of the summer.
Embark on a Cosmic Adventure with **Elio**
**Rating: 9 out of 10**
G, 1 hr 38 mins. Animated Family Sci-Fi Comedy.
Directed and co-written by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, and Adrian Molina.
Featuring voices from Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldaña, Remy Edgerly, Jameela Jamil, and Brad Garrett.
As a child, the arrival of summer meant one thrilling event: Pixar’s latest **animated masterpiece** gracing the silver screen. Alongside my grandmother, who relished these trips while claiming that none of her friends would join her for a “kid’s movie,” I found joy in each new story that Pixar unveiled.
In a time when Pixar often leans toward sequels like Toy Story and Inside Out, it’s refreshing to witness them melt our hearts with an **original tale**. This time, it’s the **charming journey of Elio**, a boy whose adventure through the cosmos captivates both young and old alike.
The Enchantment of **Elio**
For a delightful 98 minutes, **Elio** invites audiences into a whimsical space filled with laughter, wonder, and profound lessons. Animated in rich colors and featuring a plush ‘communiverse,’ this film embodies the very heart of what a Pixar story should be: **poignant, optimistic, and adventure-packed**.
The tale follows **11-year-old Elio** (voiced by Yonas Kibreab), a boy navigating the uncertainties of life after the loss of his parents. Residing with his aunt **Olga** (the remarkable Zoe Saldaña, fresh from her Oscar win), an Air Force major stationed on a military base, Elio’s world flips upside down when he’s **mistaken for Earth’s leader** during an intergalactic council meeting. In a race against time, he must save his newfound alien friends from the clutches of the malevolent warlord **Grigon**.
A Story That Resonates with All Ages
One of **Elio’s** standout achievements is its ability to tackle **high-stakes scenarios** while remaining accessible to audiences of all ages. The film cleverly avoids depicting aliens as frightening or grotesque, allowing both children and adults to appreciate its thrilling narrative and emotional depth.
This balance is quintessential Pixar — a hallmark trait that propelled classics like **Toy Story** to stardom and continues to resonate in their latest offerings, including the beautifully crafted Coco.
Moreover, the **voice cast shines**, skillfully navigating the film’s transitions between family drama, sci-fi comedy, and action, all executed with finesse. Kibreab and Saldaña form a heartwarming pair, joined by the illustrious Brad Garrett, who brings humor and menace to the role of Lord Grigon, while newcomer Remy Edgerly steals hearts as **Glordon**, Elio’s adorable worm sidekick.
The Directors’ Collaborative Efforts
Often, multiple directors can lead to a disjointed narrative. However, the combined efforts of **Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi** (known for Turning Red), and **Adrian Molina** (of **Coco**) craft a **well-balanced cinematic experience**. Their distinct styles blend seamlessly, enriching the film’s narrative and emotional depth.
Thematic Depth and Heartfelt Messages
At its core, **Elio** explores a universal theme: the yearning for belonging. Our young protagonist’s journey is not just about adventure; it reflects the ongoing struggle of children seeking validation and acceptance. This poignant conflict is woven throughout the film’s character arcs, resonating with parents and children alike.
While Elio’s journey may lack a dramatic epiphany that often defines original storytelling, his quest for **community and connection** is a vital message that leaves viewers with hope and inspiration.
A Refreshing Originality
In a landscape saturated with sequels and remakes, **Elio** stands out as a beacon of **original storytelling**, offering a captivating experience that inspires wonder in viewers of all ages. It evokes nostalgia, reminding us of the childhood joy my grandmother and I shared—making it a film worthy of a family outing during this cinematic season.
With its stunning visuals, heartfelt narrative, and memorable characters, **Elio** triumphantly proves itself as this year’s **best family movie**. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this extraordinary adventure that will undoubtedly take you **out of this world**.
