Elio

20251h 38m Directed by Domee Shi
6.9
(344 votes)
AnimationFamilyComedyAdventureScience Fiction

Overview

Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover who he is truly meant to be.

Elio

Cosmic Dreams and Intergalactic Charm: A Review of Elio

Maya Ellison
Maya EllisonSep 1, 2025
Elio, the latest animated adventure to hit theaters, is a film that promises to take viewers on a thrilling journey through the cosmos, filled with eccentric alien lifeforms, heartwarming bonds, and self-discovery. With its vibrant animation, quirky characters, and lighthearted humor, Elio is a movie that will undoubtedly delight both children and adults alike. The story follows the titular character, a space fanatic with an active imagination, as he embarks on a cosmic misadventure that challenges him to navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and discover his true purpose. While the film's themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery are timeless and well-executed, the narrative sometimes feels predictable and lacking in depth.
The animation in Elio is one of the film's strongest aspects, with beautifully rendered alien landscapes, charming character designs, and impressive visual effects. The voice acting is also noteworthy, with the cast bringing their characters to life with enthusiasm and energy. The film's humor, while sometimes relying on familiar tropes and slapstick comedy, is generally effective in eliciting laughs and smiles from the audience. However, the pacing of the movie can feel a bit rushed, with some scenes and plot points feeling glossed over or underdeveloped. Additionally, the supporting characters, while quirky and interesting, sometimes feel like they are lacking in backstory and motivation, which can make it difficult to become fully invested in their journeys.
Despite these criticisms, Elio remains a charming and enjoyable film that is sure to captivate viewers of all ages. The movie's message about the importance of embracing one's true self and forming meaningful connections with others is a powerful one, and the film's lighthearted tone and stunning animation make it a great choice for families or fans of animated adventures. While it may not be a particularly complex or sophisticated film, Elio is a fun and entertaining ride that is well worth watching. With its positive themes, lovable characters, and impressive visuals, Elio is a movie that will leave viewers feeling uplifted and inspired, even if it doesn't necessarily leave a lasting impression. Overall, Elio is a solid addition to the world of animated science fiction, and fans of the genre will likely find plenty to enjoy in this cosmic adventure.

CAST

Yonas Kibreab
Yonas Kibreab
Elio / Other Elio (voice)
Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldaña
Olga Solís (voice)
Remy Edgerly
Remy Edgerly
Glordon (voice)
Brandon Moon
Brandon Moon
Ambassador Helix (voice)
Brad Garrett
Brad Garrett
Lord Grigon (voice)
Jameela Jamil
Jameela Jamil
Ambassador Questa (voice)
Young Dylan
Young Dylan
Bryce (voice)
Jake T. Getman
Jake T. Getman
Caleb (voice)
Matthias Schweighöfer
Matthias Schweighöfer
Ambassador Tegmen (voice)
Ana de la Reguera
Ana de la Reguera
Ambassador Turais (voice)

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