When an animated film really connects, it can be the best kind of cinema, full of wonder, emotion and truth and Elio comes very close to that.
At first, it looks like a typical Pixar movie: colorful, funny and full of imagination. But beneath all the bright visuals, the story has something softer and more emotional. Elio often feels lost, lonely and unsure of himself, and it’s in those moments of weakness that the film becomes powerful and unforgettable.
From the start, we follow Elio as he’s pulled into the huge alien world of the Communiverse. The setting is full of creative details, and the animation is some of Pixar’s best in years. But the movie never forgets its heart. The friendship between Elio and the alien Glordon becomes the center of the story. Their bond brings humor, kindness and trust, showing how important friendship is in the middle of chaos and fear.
Still, Elio is not just about friendship, it’s also about loss. Elio is dealing with the grief of losing his parents and his wish to escape Earth feels like a search for belonging. The film touches on themes of family, loneliness and the pain of growing up. Even if the story feels familiar at times, the emotions are honest, and that honesty is what stays with you after the credits roll.
The theme of community is also important. As Elio meets new allies across different alien worlds, he learns that belonging isn’t about being born somewhere, it’s about the people who accept you. The movie suggests that community is something you build through trust and openness. Some side characters don’t get enough depth, and a few storylines fade too quickly but the message about finding your place is clear and moving.
What makes Elio stand out is how vulnerable it is. The film allows its young hero to make mistakes, to feel afraid and even to fail. That makes the moments of growth hit harder, when hope appears in small ways. It’s not just a kids’ adventure, it’s also a reflection of how we all search for meaning in a big, confusing world. Some may say it doesn’t reach the emotional heights of Coco or Inside Out, but others admire it for being so open-hearted.
In the end, Elio may not be the loudest or most popular release of the year and its box office numbers were surprisingly low. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. When animation captures real emotions, it can be better than almost anything else at the movies. Elio proves that, with its mix of sadness, humor, and hope. For those willing to listen to its quiet voice, it is one of the most touching films of the year.