Pixar, once the gold standard of American animation, may be reaching the end of its thematic barrel. The studio’s latest film, Elio, tries to replicate the success of films like Up and Wall-E but ultimately falls flat. Despite lush visuals and a promising premise, Elio struggles to deliver a meaningful emotional message.
The film tells the story of an 11-year-old boy named Elio who longs to be abducted by aliens after losing his parents in an accident. He is taken in by his aunt Olga, who works for the Space Force, and together they embark on a journey through space. Along the way, Elio discovers a utopian alien society that challenges his perceptions of identity and belonging.
However, the film’s attempt to tackle universal themes such as grief, loneliness, and acceptance feels forced and overly familiar. The story is predictable, and the supporting characters are underdeveloped. Even the usually reliable Pixar animation falls short in this instance, with too much repetition and not enough innovative design.
Elio’s message about embracing one’s differences also feels like a rehash of better themes explored in other films. The studio’s reliance on familiar tropes and formulaic storytelling is concerning, as it suggests that Pixar has run out of ideas.
In short, Elio is a disappointing effort from a studio that once pushed the boundaries of animation and storytelling. While it may have its moments, the film ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying emotional experience.
Source: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/elio-pixar-review