Intriguing connections are made and emotional insights provided in the course of the animated adventure “Elio” (Disney). While this Pixar production doesn’t necessarily rise to the rank of a classic, as some of that studio’s productions have, it is certainly a treat — and one that’s appropriate for all but the tiniest movie fans.
Voiced by Yonas Kibreab, the title character is an initially unhappy 11-year-old boy. Bereaved by the sudden demise of his parents, Elio is also at odds with his new guardian, his Aunt Olga (voice of Zoe Saldaña).
Olga is an Air Force officer and aspiring astronaut. But she has had to put her ambition in that regard on hold in order to concentrate on caring for Elio.
Introduced to the idea of space travel at the base where Olga works, Elio becomes obsessed with the subject. In fact, he develops the unusual but ardent desire to be abducted by aliens. Friendless and miserable in general on Earth, he imagines a new life for himself amid the stars.
Through a series of unusual events, Elio’s wish eventually comes true. Once it does, though, he he finds himself caught up in the struggle between a community of enlightened sages — led by, among others, Ambassador Questa (voice of Jameela Jamil), a pink sea dragon — and Grigon (voice of Brad Garrett), the bloodthirsty warlord who’s out to conquer their peaceful planet.
Penned by a trio of screenwriters and co-directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, “Elio” boasts the sophistication and depth that are Pixar’s hallmarks.
Thus the recurring question “Are we alone?” — posed by none other than famed astronomer Carl Sagan in a recording from the 1980s — takes on a double meaning in the context of Elio’s loneliness. And the fact that Grigon’s metallic exterior is a form of armor that conceals his true, far-more vulnerable physical form suggests the nexus between insecurity and aggression.
As Elio scrambles to forestall Grigon’s attack, he acquires a pal in the person of the warrior’s insect-like son, Glordon ??(voice of Remy Edgerly). Like Elio, gentle, good natured Glordon is something of a misfit. He’s also understandably intimidated by his fierce father and can’t summon the courage to tell dad that he doesn’t want to follow in his rampaging footsteps.
From a Christian perspective, it’s interesting to speculate whether the material heavens serve as a secular substitute for the real thing in Elio’s mind. This might be made the springboard for a family discussion with kids old enough not to be frightened by the movie or emotionally overwhelmed by Elio’s tragic backstory.
The film contains characters in peril, two slightly crass terms and references to death. The OSV News classification is A-I — general patronage. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.
