Movie Review: Elio

Honestly, if we’re talking about stories of misunderstood outcasts, I could name a dozen movies with the same setup. The question then becomes — why do we keep telling this story? The answer is simple: because it still happens. In the real world, there are kids like Elio — misunderstood, out of place, bullied, and just wishing to be seen. That’s what makes this movie important. It might be fiction, but its emotional truth hits home.

Elio is a film I didn’t expect to hit as hard as it did. Yes, it’s set in a galaxy filled with talking aliens, supercomputers, and interstellar politics, but at its core, this is a very grounded movie. I saw myself in Elio. I know what it’s like to feel out of place, to wish for connection, and to finally find that one person (or alien!) who gets you.

I shed a tear or two during this movie — okay maybe more — because it’s that emotionally resonant. Elio's journey is about self-worth and finding your voice, and in true Pixar fashion, it’s delivered with both humor and heart.

Speaking of heart, let’s talk about Elio and Glordon. These two are adorable. Elio, who lost his parents and is being raised by an aunt who doesn’t fully understand him, and Glordon, the son of a galactic warlord who doesn’t want to follow in his father’s violent footsteps — both are carrying invisible burdens. And when they find each other, it’s like watching two puzzle pieces snap into place. Their friendship is pure and healing, and watching it unfold was easily my favorite part of the movie.

And then there’s the Pixar quality stamp — visually, it’s stunning. Every alien species, every cosmic environment, and even the earthbound settings are designed with so much detail and love. It’s a movie that’s easy on the eyes but even easier on the heart.

What surprised me most is how Elio feels more like a movie made for adults than kids. Yes, it’s animated. Yes, there are cute aliens and space hijinks. But underneath all that is a very real message about feeling lost, and eventually finding your place — and that message will resonate most with those of us who’ve been there.

I’m giving Elio a 9/10. It’s a deeply emotional journey wrapped in intergalactic whimsy, and I truly loved every moment of it.