Pop Culture Happy Hour: Deep Dive into Pixar's "Elio"

Episode Title: Elio
Host/Author: NPR
Release Date: June 23, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosted by Linda Holmes and Aisha Harris, the panel delves into Pixar's latest animated offering, "Elio." Joining the discussion are Bhadatri D. Chaudhary, the Philadelphia Inquirer's arts and entertainment editor and film critic, and Margaret H. Willison, a seasoned culture writer. Together, they unpack the film's narrative, artistic choices, and the deeper themes it explores.

Plot Overview

"Elio" tells the story of a lonely young boy whose parents have passed away, leaving him in the care of his Aunt Olga, an Air Force major. Fascinated by space and yearning for belonging, Elio dreams of being abducted by aliens. His wish comes true when extraterrestrial beings from the Communiverse seek his assistance to save themselves from a formidable enemy. Throughout his interstellar adventure, Elio befriends a character named Glordon, reevaluates his relationship with his aunt, and gains a fresh perspective on Earth.

Panel Discussions and Insights

Visual and Artistic Appreciation

Bhadatri D. Chaudhary opens the discussion by praising the film's visual creativity:

"Most of the Pixar movies are very visually stunning, but this one felt a little different. Sometimes it kind of looks like Mario World... I think it's one of the more memorable of Pixar's more recent outings."
(04:46)

She highlights the film's unique animation styles, ranging from playful Mario-like worlds to impressive slow-motion effects, making "Elio" stand out in Pixar's repertoire.

Aisha Harris echoes the sentiment, commending the blend of Pixar's signature cuddly aesthetic with action-packed sequences reminiscent of the Transformers universe:

"I really liked the way that Glordon was conceived and animated. Those sort of critters are cool looking."
(07:00)

Thematic Exploration

The film's exploration of belonging and community takes center stage. Aisha Harris emphasizes:

"It's one of the most foundational emotions there is, the desire to feel grounded in a community."
(08:15)

Margaret H. Willison adds a layer of depth by connecting the film's themes to broader societal questions, especially relevant to immigrants:

"This speaks to kids who feel 'different'... It's a very simple idea that resonates on multiple levels."
(10:08)

Character Development and Representation

The character of Elio is noted for potential neurodivergent traits, subtly portrayed through his actions and interactions:

"There are some signs that Elio may be autistic or maybe otherwise neurodivergent."
(08:00)

Both Margaret and Bhadatri appreciate the inclusive representation, allowing a diverse audience to find relatability within Elio's journey.

Comparison with Other Pixar Films

Drawing parallels with previous Pixar successes like "Coco" and "Turning Red," the panel acknowledges Adrian Molina's influence:

"Adrian Molina is a major force behind this because he also wrote and directed Coco."
(13:01)

While "Elio" may not reach the emotional depths of "Coco," it stands out as a charming adventure suitable for all ages, balancing humor with heartfelt moments.

Critical Observations

However, not all feedback is solely positive. Margaret H. Willison points out the film's lack of cultural specificity:

"We know the family is Spanish speaking, but we don't quite know where the family is from. It might have been a nice touch."
(17:30)

Similarly, Bhadatri D. Chaudhary wishes for more character depth and a stronger connection to Elio's Earthly life:

"I just want there to be like 11 more minutes of movie with something a little bit more concrete about some of these characters on Earth."
(17:10)

These critiques highlight areas where "Elio" could enhance its storytelling to foster deeper emotional connections.

Conclusion

Despite minor shortcomings, the panel unanimously agrees that "Elio" is a delightful addition to Pixar's lineup. Its visual charm, relatable themes, and engaging characters make it a recommended watch for both children and adults. As Margaret H. Willison aptly summarizes:

"This is a good summer watch for people of all ages."
(19:29)

Aisha Harris wraps up the discussion by highlighting the film's ability to balance adventure with meaningful emotional undertones, making it a standout choice for family viewing.

Final Thoughts

Pop Culture Happy Hour not only celebrates the artistic achievements of "Elio" but also encourages listeners to explore the multifaceted narratives that contemporary animated films offer. Whether you're a Pixar aficionado or a casual moviegoer, "Elio" promises an enchanting journey worth experiencing.

For more insights and discussions, tune into Pop Culture Happy Hour and join the conversation on Facebook or Letterboxd. Support the show by subscribing to Pop Culture Happy Hour Plus for a sponsor-free experience.