{"id":13851,"date":"2025-06-20T05:09:59","date_gmt":"2025-06-20T12:09:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/?p=13851"},"modified":"2025-12-12T12:39:57","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T19:39:57","slug":"elio","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/2025\/elio\/","title":{"rendered":"Elio * Incredible Film! Visually Stunning, Emotionally Rich, Deeply Imaginative"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-13864\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio.poster.2.jpg?resize=124%2C183&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"124\" height=\"183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio.poster.2.jpg?resize=203%2C300&amp;ssl=1 203w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio.poster.2.jpg?w=405&amp;ssl=1 405w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 124px) 100vw, 124px\" \/>Elio, a space fanatic underdog with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure when he is inadvertently beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide. Mistakenly identified as Earth&#8217;s ambassador to the rest of the universe, he starts to form new bonds with eccentric aliens, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions all while discovering who he&#8217;s truly meant to be.<\/p>\n<p>KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, \u201c<em>Elio <\/em>is one of Disney\u2019s and Pixar\u2019s greatest hits yet.\u00a0 A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won\u2019t soon be forgotten.\u201d Zoe C., adds, \u201cWhat an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they\u2019ve gone above and beyond with <em>Elio<\/em>. This film is something truly special \u2013 it&#8217;s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging.\u201d Zoey F. wraps it up with, \u201cThe film\u2019s message is about the importance of finding your true family. <em>Elio<\/em> shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that <em>Elio<\/em> includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.\u201d See their full reviews and interview with Yonas Kibreab, who plays Elio, below.<\/p>\n<p>Elio<br \/>\nBy Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xwnxcgTTtNY?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13860\" style=\"width: 262px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13860\" class=\" wp-image-13860\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e230_121g_pub.pub16.1679-601x324-e909cf9-300x162.jpg?resize=252%2C136&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"252\" height=\"136\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e230_121g_pub.pub16.1679-601x324-e909cf9.jpg?resize=300%2C162&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e230_121g_pub.pub16.1679-601x324-e909cf9.jpg?w=600&amp;ssl=1 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 252px) 100vw, 252px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13860\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><em>Elio <\/em>is one of Disney\u2019s and Pixar\u2019s greatest hits yet.\u00a0 A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won\u2019t soon be forgotten.<\/p>\n<p>This film follows a boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab) as he tries to make contact with aliens, believing no one wants him on Earth.\u00a0 When he finally does, he is greeted by countless species, and starts making friends left and right, but it\u2019s not all fun and games.<\/p>\n<p>Lord Grygon (Brad Garrett) intends to crash the party, and he\u2019s not taking no for an answer.\u00a0 If Elio wants to stay, he and his new bestie, Glordon (Remy Edgerly), must find a way to reason with the warlord, keep the community safe and, along the way, find his place in the universe.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7PT7EdXwUCE?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13861\" style=\"width: 260px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13861\" class=\" wp-image-13861\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e468_700c_pub.pub16.1882-601x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=250%2C105&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e468_700c_pub.pub16.1882-601x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e468_700c_pub.pub16.1882-601x251-bd24542.jpg?w=600&amp;ssl=1 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13861\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">TAKING UP SPACE \u2013 Ambassador Tegman (far right), Ambassador Helix (second from right), Ambassador Turais (third from right) and Ambassador Questa (left of Glordon). Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The concept of an alien hangout leaves much room for creativity, and the production team brought their best \u2013 the result is nothing short of extraordinary.\u00a0 No matter where I looked in this feature, everything was bursting with color.\u00a0 The animation is full and complete, with even the little details standing out, leaving me in awe of the work put into creating this film.\u00a0 Elio and Glordon\u2019s friendship is a source of constant humor, with the duo getting into all sorts of adventures \u2013 big ones like jumping from a high loft into a whirlpool, or just enjoying a nice cup of glorp while watching the twinkling cosmos.<\/p>\n<p>It may seem challenging for Elio\u2019s life on Earth to compare with his time in space, but it is a necessary comparison.\u00a0 Zoe Salda\u00f1a portrays Elio\u2019s aunt Olga, who is trying to show Elio that life happens down here, not in the stars.\u00a0 Though it seems to put a damper on his fun, it captures the sense that you can\u2019t have the ability to play without putting in the work.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13854\" style=\"width: 265px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13854\" class=\" wp-image-13854\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE_e101_18f_pub.pub16.136-601x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=255%2C107&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"255\" height=\"107\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE_e101_18f_pub.pub16.136-601x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE_e101_18f_pub.pub16.136-601x251-bd24542.jpg?w=600&amp;ssl=1 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 255px) 100vw, 255px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13854\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">SPACE FANATIC \u2013 Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The plot is simpler and more concise than some of Pixar\u2019s other movies, but in no way less put together.\u00a0 Twists and cliffhangers still abound without being needlessly complicated, further securing <em>Elio<\/em> as a feature to remember.<\/p>\n<p>This film\u2019s message is that you are never alone.\u00a0 Though you may not get aliens asking for a play-date anytime soon, there is always someone there to talk with you, walk with you, and just be with you. Note that there are few scenes of space violence, and one where Elio is about to get beat up by a few kids from Earth.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Elio <\/em>5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18. <em>Elio <\/em>releases in theaters June 20, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Elio<br \/>\nBy Zo\u00eb C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Cm7oTsmAHio?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13852\" style=\"width: 260px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13852\" class=\" wp-image-13852\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_45gT.pub16.703-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=250%2C105&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_45gT.pub16.703-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_45gT.pub16.703-600x251-bd24542.jpg?w=599&amp;ssl=1 599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13852\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">SPACING OUT \u2013 11-year-old Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>What an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they\u2019ve gone above and beyond with <em>Elio<\/em>. This film is something truly special \u2013 it&#8217;s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging. Beyond that, the story line is truly a roller coaster of emotions in the best way possible.<\/p>\n<p>The story follows a young boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab), who is navigating the world after the loss of both of his parents. He now lives with his aunt (Zoe Salda\u00f1a), but struggles with feelings of isolation and not fitting in. Elio is completely fascinated by aliens and hopes to be abducted by them as he believes there is no place for him on earth and thinks that maybe someone in space could love or understand him.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13859\" style=\"width: 267px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13859\" class=\" wp-image-13859\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_501u_pub.pub16.345.jpg?resize=257%2C108&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"257\" height=\"108\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_501u_pub.pub16.345.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_501u_pub.pub16.345.jpg?resize=768%2C322&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_501u_pub.pub16.345.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 257px) 100vw, 257px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13859\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">AMBASSADORS ABOUND \u2013 Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). (from left): Ambassador Tegmen (voice of Matthias Schweigh\u00f6fer), Ambassador Questa (voice of Jameela Jamil), Ambassador Helix (voice of Brandon Moon) and Ambassador Naos (voice of Atsuko Okatsuka). Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d opens in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>When a mysterious message from outer space calls for Elio he finds himself transported into the \u201cGalactaverse,\u201d a vibrant intergalactic world full of curious creatures, unexpected friendships, and endless adventure. For the first time, Elio feels like he belongs, but as he builds connections and discovers his place among the stars, he must also confront the question of where and with whom he truly belongs.<\/p>\n<p>One of my favorite aspects of this film is its storyline. The plot is surprisingly deep and emotionally grounded, especially for a film intended for children. Pixar often handles complex themes, but <em>Elio<\/em> takes a bold step by addressing grief, identity, and the universal desire to feel understood. The film doesn\u2019t shy away from heavier emotions and instead embraces them with empathy and honesty. This aspect of the story adds a layer of emotion and connection to humanity. It&#8217;s common for kids to feel as if they don\u2019t fit in and, the way this film portrays this, is so beautiful. <em>Elio<\/em> portrays that inner struggle in a way that feels both accessible and profound. Visually, the animation is out of this world. I love how the animators use color and lighting to reflect Elio\u2019s emotional journey.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13855\" style=\"width: 265px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13855\" class=\" wp-image-13855\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_651c_pub.pub16.238_FT-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=255%2C107&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"255\" height=\"107\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_651c_pub.pub16.238_FT-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e310_651c_pub.pub16.238_FT-600x251-bd24542.jpg?w=599&amp;ssl=1 599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 255px) 100vw, 255px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13855\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A COSMIC MISADVENTURE \u2013 From left to right: Ambassador Questa (voice of Jameela Jamil), Ooooo (voice of Shirley Henderson) and Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Earth is portrayed with a subdued, muted palette, symbolizing Elio\u2019s sadness and disconnection. While the Galactaverse is filled with vivid colors that reflect the excitement and comfort Elio feels in this new world. The creative designs of the alien characters and settings are incredibly fun to watch. The voice acting is also amazing. Yonas Kibreab, who voices Elio, brings such authenticity and warmth to the role. You can feel every ounce of Elio\u2019s hope, fear, and curiosity throughout his performance. One of my favorite characters is Glordon, an adorable alien, voiced by Remy Edgerly. Glordon is Elio\u2019s first real friend in the Galactaverse, and Edgerly\u2019s sweet and gentle voice makes the character instantly lovable. Their friendship is a beautiful part of the story and adds so much heart to the film.<\/p>\n<p>I love the message of this film: there\u2019s a place for everyone, you just have to allow yourself to find it.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Elio<\/em> 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. You can catch Elio in theaters beginning June 20, 2025. Don\u2019t miss it!<\/p>\n<p>Elio<br \/>\nBy Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/F-rXh_LnEok?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13858\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13858\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13858\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e360_22c.pub16.1107.jpg?resize=300%2C126&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"126\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e360_22c.pub16.1107.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e360_22c.pub16.1107.jpg?resize=768%2C322&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e360_22c.pub16.1107.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13858\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">CONNECTIONS \u2013 Featuring the voices of Yonas Kibreab and Zoe Salda\u00f1a as Elio and Aunt Olga, respectively, Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>I enjoyed watching the movie <em>Elio <\/em>with its\u00a0outstanding voice acting, animation, and themes. The movie is outstanding except for a minor plot hole.<\/p>\n<p>The storyline follows Elio (Yonas Kibreab), a creative boy whose passion is trying to get abducted by space aliens. After Elio\u2019s parents suffer a tragedy, Elio moves in with his strict Aunt Olga (Zoe Salda\u00f1a) and continues trying to fulfill his goal he writes \u201caliens abduct me\u201d in lights in the sand. Elio\u2019s prayers are answered and he is taken to another galaxy where he joins them under the false \u201cLeader of Earth\u201d title. He ends up negotiating with the ruthless Lord Grigon (Remy Edgerly), who is trying to destroy the whole galaxy, but Elio has a trick up his sleeve and not only does Elio need to please the aliens, but he needs to figure out how to stop his aunt from being suspicious.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13853\" style=\"width: 260px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13853\" class=\" wp-image-13853\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio-ONLINE-USE-e330_523a_tk121_000409.pub16-600x251-f063c22.jpeg?resize=250%2C105&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio-ONLINE-USE-e330_523a_tk121_000409.pub16-600x251-f063c22.jpeg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Elio-ONLINE-USE-e330_523a_tk121_000409.pub16-600x251-f063c22.jpeg?w=599&amp;ssl=1 599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13853\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EXPLORING THE COMMUNIVERSE \u2013 Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2024 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The whole movie, <em>Elio<\/em> really feels like a breath of fresh air. Not only is every character executed well, but they do so without being too \u201ccorny.\u201d Elio is a very relatable character, and he is very fun to watch! He teaches the audience what it feels like to not to fit in and want to belong. Elio is on a journey of finding his people. I really enjoyed the humor in this film. The banter between Elio and his aunt is outstanding. A memorable incident is when Aunt Olga pulls out a parenting book and asks Elio to explain which emotion he was feeling. Elio is extremely humorous without being too repetitive or corny. A part of the film that I feel is underdeveloped is the plot, especially Elio\u2019s relationship with his aunt. At the beginning of the film, she is not giving Elio enough attention or love.<\/p>\n<p>Then, later, when Elio returns from space, she is suddenly the perfect mother-figure, and everything is alright. It feels that the relationship is rushed and it is unclear where exactly Elio and Aunt Olga stand with each other.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13862\" style=\"width: 260px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13862\" class=\" wp-image-13862\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e583_146a.pub16.2737-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=250%2C105&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e583_146a.pub16.2737-600x251-bd24542.jpg?resize=300%2C126&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELIO-ONLINE-USE-e583_146a.pub16.2737-600x251-bd24542.jpg?w=599&amp;ssl=1 599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13862\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">AMBASSADORS \u2013 Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab), Mira (far left), Ambassador Helix (third from left), Ambassador Questa (center), Ambassador Tegman (third from right) and Ambassador Turais (second from right). Disney and Pixar\u2019s \u201cElio\u201d releases in theaters June 20, 2025. \u00a9 2025 Disney\/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>When Elio is gone, we do not see Aunt Olga missing him at all, but it seems that the audience is supposed to assume that she did. Aside from that, the plot runs pretty true.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is about the importance of finding your true family. <em>Elio<\/em> shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that <em>Elio<\/em> includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Elio<\/em> 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It opens in theaters on June 20, 2025.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ETVi5_cnnaE?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Elio, a space fanatic underdog with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure when he is inadvertently beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide. Mistakenly identified as Earth&#8217;s ambassador to the rest of the universe, he starts to form new bonds with eccentric aliens, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions all while discovering who he&#8217;s truly meant to be.<br \/>\nKIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, \u201cElio is one of Disney\u2019s and Pixar\u2019s greatest hits yet.  A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won\u2019t soon be forgotten.\u201d Zoe C., adds, \u201cWhat an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they\u2019ve gone above and beyond with Elio. This film is something truly special \u2013 it&#8217;s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging.\u201d Zoey F. wraps it up with, \u201cThe film\u2019s message is about the importance of finding your true family. Elio shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that Elio includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[4949,15],"tags":[318,6751,22,7889,9259,1783,35,5573,9245,9248,9246,9264,1936,9262,5396,9255,9260,9254,1166,9257,9251,9249,9256,346,9250,9253,9261,9258,9252,1983,9247,9263,223],"class_list":["post-13851","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-feature-film","category-feature-film-reviews","tag-aliens","tag-america-ferrera","tag-animation","tag-brad-garrett","tag-brendan-hunt","tag-by-kids-for-kids","tag-disney","tag-disney-pixar","tag-elio","tag-elio-movie","tag-elio-pixar","tag-intergalactic","tag-interview","tag-jake-getman","tag-jameela-jamil","tag-kids-videos-for-kids","tag-matthias-schweighofer","tag-merry-little-batman","tag-movie-reviews","tag-naomi-watanabe","tag-new-pixar","tag-olga-soli","tag-omar-sherrer","tag-pixar","tag-pixar-movie","tag-pupstructon","tag-remy-edgerly","tag-shirley-henderson","tag-slumberkins","tag-walt-disney-studios","tag-yonas-kibreab","tag-young-dylan","tag-zoe-saldana"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/saS5I2-elio","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13851","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13851"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13851\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13875,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13851\/revisions\/13875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13851"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13851"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13851"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}