A Unique Pitch: When Pixar Embraces the Bizarre

Pixar is known for its innovative storytelling, but ‘Elio’ takes that reputation to another level. The film’s core concept, as described in early pitches, involves “a lonely kid is mistaken for Earth’s ambassador by a UN-style council of sentient celestial bath bombs dipped in day-glow glitter and floating in a malfunctioning lava lamp.” This suggests a departure from conventional narratives, embracing a more surreal and whimsical approach to animation.

Some might see this as Pixar “surrendering to the void,” creating content more suited for “children who are made of sherbet and tie-dye,rather than flesh and bones.” However, this boldness could also signify a willingness to push boundaries and explore uncharted creative territory.

Visually Stunning: A Glimpse into Pixar’s Cosmic Heart

Footage screened recently indicates that ‘Elio’ has the potential to reach the heights of Pixar’s most beloved films. While the movie appears to be unconventional – featuring our hero befriending “a tardigrade as reimagined by Takashi Murakami” – the overall impression is one of meticulous craftsmanship, innovative art style and a heartwarming narrative.

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The visual style is expected to be a major draw, and it seems Pixar aims to provide viewers with “raspberry-scented, jellybean-flavoured crayons from another dimension.”

Storyline: An Orphan’s Cosmic Destiny

The story of ‘Elio’ revolves around an 11-year-old orphan grappling with the recent loss of his parents. Living with his aunt, voiced by Zoe Saldaña, who is portrayed as “a kind but driven, overworked wannabe astronaut,” Elio feels isolated and longs for a grand adventure.

his wish is granted when he unexpectedly finds himself representing Earth before the Communiverse, “a sort of UN-style council of extreme cosmic decency.” However, Elio arrives at a pivotal moment, as the intergalactic community faces a important threat.

‘Elio’ vs. ‘E.T.’: A New Era of Extraterrestrial Inventiveness

The article draws a comparison between ‘Elio’ and Steven Spielberg’s classic ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,’ noting the shared theme of a child yearning for connection with the unknown. Though, ‘Elio’ distinguishes itself by promising a deeper exploration of the extraterrestrial world.

While ‘E.T.’ deliberately kept the alien’s home planet and spaceship hidden, directors Madeline sharafian and Domee shi intend to fully showcase the “glowing, pulsating, neon-drenched heart of the galaxy.” This suggests a more immersive and visually rich depiction of outer space, moving beyond the limitations of earlier sci-fi films.

The film’s ambition is to provide a visual experience that surpasses the constraints of past sci-fi, offering a dazzling representation of outer space that is “an interstellar disco thrown by Ziggy Stardust inside a melted pack of Skittles.”