Exploring Humanity’s Curiosity Through a Cosmic Lens
From the very beginning, Elio sets the tone with archival audio of the late astronomer Carl Sagan, emphasizing that humanity’s fascination with the universe stems from a fundamental question: are we alone? While the movie explores the possibility of extraterrestrial life, it delves deeper into our universal desire to find connection and understanding—whether with other beings or within ourselves. This heartfelt story follows Elio, a curious orphan who, through a series of extraordinary events, embarks on a cosmic adventure that challenges his perception of home, family, and belonging.
Stunning Animation and the Power of Yearning
Visually, Elio is a feast for the eyes, boasting vibrant, imaginative worlds teeming with alien lifeforms and futuristic technology. What truly stands out, however, is how the film captures the elusive feeling of longing—our innate craving for something beyond our reach. Elio’s curiosity about aliens is sparked by the famous Voyager Golden Records, a real-world message humanity sent into space in the 1970s. The inclusion of Carl Sagan’s involvement lends a poignant touch, bridging the story’s fiction with our real-life quest for knowledge. The movie’s opening scene, showcasing this discovery, masterfully balances a bittersweet mix of hope and melancholy that resonates throughout the story.
From Earthly Roots to Galactic Adventures
As Elio matures, his obsession with UFOs and alien abductions grows, leading to a strained relationship with his aunt Olga, a former astronaut and Air Force major. Olga’s own childhood dream of space exploration contrasts with her current role, but her concern for Elio’s safety remains unwavering. When Elio finally succeeds in establishing contact with an alien civilization, he doesn’t just escape his military camp—he journeys through a luminous portal into the communiverse, a whimsical universe inhabited by beings from countless planets. To the extraterrestrials, Elio is seen as the leader of Earth, a testament to the film’s playful yet meaningful storytelling.
Imaginative Production Design and Cultural Nuances
The attention to detail in Elio’s production design is remarkable. Take, for example, the makeshift cape Elio wears, adorned with plastic cutlery and soda can tabs—an inventive touch that highlights the creativity behind the film. The various settings within the communiverse feel like they were dreamt up by a child, blending fantastical elements with intuitive, tactile design. However, with only 93 minutes to explore this rich universe, the film introduces a multitude of intriguing ideas and characters, leaving some concepts only partially developed. Still, small details—like a Spanish-language song or a Day of the Dead altar in Elio and Olga’s home—powerfully showcase their Latino heritage, adding depth and authenticity to their characters.
Humor and Wisdom for All Ages
One of the most charming aspects of Elio is its witty humor, which appeals to both children and adults. A standout element is the sentient “user’s manual” of the communiverse—an animated, glowing deck of translucent cards that contains the secrets of the universe and the meaning of existence. Its dismissive attitude toward these profound questions humorously echoes The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, illustrating how the film playfully toys with sci-fi and horror tropes. This clever approach adds a layer of sophistication that older viewers will appreciate, making the movie a delightful blend of comedy and philosophical reflection.
Conflict, Compassion, and the Search for Identity
The story escalates when Lord Grigon, a formidable four-eyed warlord, is denied entry into the communiverse. Elio volunteers to negotiate with him—a risky move that introduces us to Grigon’s son, Glordon. Resembling a miniature Dune sandworm with rows of sharp teeth, Glordon shares a touching connection with Elio, as both struggle to communicate their frustrations with parental figures. Glordon’s desire to avoid becoming a ruthless war machine mirrors a universal truth: to grow up, one must often shed innocence and develop emotional defenses. This poignant analogy underscores the film’s exploration of maturity, wonder, and vulnerability.
Interstellar Adventure and Heartfelt Reflection
The film culminates in a series of breathtaking space adventures, ultimately leading Elio to a profound realization—our concept of home isn’t limited to Earth. With Carl Sagan’s voice reminding us that pondering the mysteries of space is a distinctly human trait, Elio encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of curiosity, belonging, and self-acceptance. It’s a charming, thoughtful story that reminds us that even amidst imperfection, there is wonder to be found in the universe—and within ourselves.
Derek Shaw
Derek is a seasoned film critic and cinephile with a deep appreciation for storytelling, cinematography, and character development. He covers everything from mainstream blockbusters to indie films and international cinema. With a unique voice and thoughtful perspective, Derek offers reviews, deep dives, and behind-the-scenes insights that resonate with both casual viewers and hardcore movie fans.
