We just saw Disney and Pixar’s Elio and it was absolutely GREAT!
My teens and I had the opportunity to see Elio before it was officially in theatres and it was one of the best Disney Pixar movies I’ve seen.
Spoiler-free review: This film truly was out of this world—in more ways than one. We went in with average expectations, especially given how light and silly the previews made it seem, but we walked out genuinely moved. Elio is not just a fun sci-fi adventure—it’s a deeply heartfelt story about loneliness, identity, and what it means to find your place in the universe.
Elio is an ordinary boy who feels like he doesn’t belong—on Earth, at school, or even in his own family. But everything changes when he’s accidentally transported to a faraway part of the universe, where he’s mistaken for Earth’s ambassador by a coalition of alien civilizations.
Though the aliens look bizarre—colorful, strange, and otherworldly—they’re surprisingly familiar. Like humans, they struggle with fear, misunderstanding, and conflict. Elio, despite feeling like a misfit back home, becomes a surprising voice of reason and heart among these alien beings. Through his courage, empathy, and creativity, he helps them see things differently—and in doing so, begins to discover where he truly belongs.
The movie starts a little slow, but it steadily builds into something truly special. It reminded me a bit of Lilo & Stitch —especially in how it balances humor with emotional depth—but honestly, I think Elio is even better in some ways. The themes are universal and powerful, and the story is told in a way that’s relatable for kids but meaningful for adults. My teens really liked it and the little kids in the theater were hooked in through the whole thing including the credits.
It wasn’t really an amusing movie – I don’t remember any laughs, but the story and visuals hooked me in as well as everyone in the theater.
The animation is stunning, with vivid, otherworldly visuals that create a universe that feels fresh and alive. The music perfectly complements the emotion of each scene, adding even more layers to the story.
If you’re looking for a film with heart, imagination, and originality, Elio delivers on all fronts. It officially opens in theatres this Friday, June 20th—go see it!! You won’t regret it.
Trailer:
