Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover who he is truly meant to be.
Chuck says:
Much like its titular character, Pixar’s “Elio” gradually wins you over. Directed by Adrian Molina and Domee Shi, the film gets off to an awkward start, clumsily executing the all-too-familiar plot points found in these coming-of-age stories. And, while I shouldn’t say this, the kid is less than engaging. Yet as the story by Julia Cho and Mark Hammer unfolds and its intent becomes plain, a bit of charm is revealed that proves hard to resist. Thankfully, the lead character winds up being a hero in the true sense of the word, becoming more endearing as he struggles to discover who he is.
To be sure, Elio (voice by Yonas Kibreab) has had a rough go of it. What with his parents being killed in an accident, he’s gone to live with his Aunt Olga (Zoe Saldana), who just happens to be a major in the Air Force. The division she works in monitors satellite traffic and activity, occasionally picking up signals from space. This proves to be right in Elio’s wheelhouse as he’s become obsessed with the notion that aliens exist. Feeling alone and abandoned, he longs for them to come and take him away, in the hopes he’ll find a place where he belongs.
After sneaking into his aunt’s place of work and finding a translated message from the cosmos, he manages to author a reply that gets the attention of the inhabitants of the Communiverse. This roving planet is populated by ambassadors from various space races across the galaxy. Elio presents himself as Earth’s leader, eager to join this benevolent society. However, he must show his worth by convincing Lord Grigon (Brad Garrett), who is overlord to a planet of metal armored warriors, to leave the Communiverse be. Like any bully, he’s intent on destroying it, as they will not have him as a member.
Once the film shifts locations, it finds its footing. The menagerie of aliens, though not given enough screen time, are fascinating, while the introduction of Glordon (Remy Edgerly), Grigon’s son, gives Elio a dynamic character to play off. This naïve larval creature shares Elio’s sense of low self-esteem, fearful he will never be able to please his father by becoming a warrior like him. While predictable, there’s a sincerity in the way the bond between them forms, finally giving the film the emotional foundation it needs to succeed.
Running a scant 99 minutes, the movie feels long, running afoul of the sort of narrative bloat and repetition that’s plagued the superhero genre. Needless complications forestall the cathartic climax we crave, making for an, at times, frustrating experience.
That being said, Molina and company deliver with a genuinely emotional ending that salvages the film. Once Grigon reveals himself to be more than just a killing machine, you’ll be willing to forgive the script its structural trespasses. A pleasant surprise, the third act is nearly as good as anything you’ll find in a Pixar movie.
Parents should note that some disturbing images crop up at times. Grigon and his brethren are genuinely foreboding while a moment when another character dissolves would be more at home in a body horror feature. That being said, those age seven and above should be able to handle and enjoy all “Elio” has to offer, as will their parents, once they get past its pedestrian first act.
3 Stars
