Elemental feels like classic Pixar, while also weaving in something completely new for the studio — it’s a love story at it’s core. And it really works.
We all know that water and fire do not mix, but what would happen if they wanted to? Pixar explores this possibility in their new film, Elemental. This movie is relatable for viewers of all ages, as it weaves in elements (no pun intended) of love, family, confidence, and immigration. There are laugh out loud moments, as well as ones that will have you reaching for your tissues.
What starts off as a story about Ember’s parents, Burny and Cinder, moving to Element City to give her a better life, develops into a love story when she meets the quirky and extremely emotional City Inspector, Wade. One thing is for sure about him, he is not afraid to cry. Ember just wants to stop him from getting her father’s shop closed down, especially since she is destined to take it over one day, and the rest is history.
It is easy to fall in love with Ember and Wade, individually, from the moment you meet them on screen. The more we start to see that they are falling for each other, the more we root for them as a couple. Because they cannot even touch, their connection is wholesome and pure. They get to know each other, they share their dreams and passions with each other, and they connect on a deeper level.
When it comes to Ember’s relationship with her parents, and especially her father, it is relatable to the majority of people who will be watching Elemental. We all have parents, and every parent has made sacrifices for their children. Weaving in the immigration aspect of the story, not everyone has experienced it, but we all know this sort of thing happens.
Element City was not made with fire in mind, which is clear from the beginning. They are ostracized at times, which is why they stick to fire city, where they know they fit in. Even if you didn’t immigrate to where you are living, you can probably relate to feeling like you don’t fit in.
Related: Pixar Elemental Filmmakers Discuss Inspiration & Challenges
This is the reason that the payoffs of the story work so well. The audience is so invested in these characters, and their relationships, that when the emotional beat drops, it hits hard. In a good way. If these characters were not lovable or relatable, none of it works. The incredible relationship building throughout the film is what helps the audience connect with them, and therefore they get swept up in the story.
There are important life lessons to be learned in this film as well. Mostly about being true to yourself and going for the things you want, even if you’ve been told all your life you can’t. These are things that everyone needs to hear every once in a while, not just kids.
The plot is believable and entertaining. I wouldn’t say it hooks you right from the start, but it finds itself by the second act and there is no turning back after that. Yes, this is a love story. But that isn’t all it is. It’s so much more than that. It is a story about families, dreams, and not allowing yourself to be stuck in a box just because of where you come from.
It goes without saying, because all you have to do is look at these photos, but Elemental is visually stunning as well. It pushes the boundary of animation and does something incredibly unique. Element City has different aspects of all the elements in nearly every part of it.
From the water streets to the buildings made of dirt and grass, there are many details that truly make it feel like a place where land, water, and air live. Then, on the outskirts of the city, we see where the fire folk live. Their part of town is just as unique and pretty, clearly taking inspiration from fireplaces and grills.
The way that Ember’s brightness changes depending on her mood, and how Wade can pack water inside of him — all of these details are beautifully done and add to the story beats, as well as the visuals.
Overall Thoughts
Elemental often feels like classic Pixar. It goes back to its roots creating a story that will pull every drop of emotion out of viewers. It simultaneously tells a love story between Ember and Wade, and a parent-child relationship story between Ember and her parents — and Wade and his mother.
This is also an immigrant story. Sure, we have seen it before, but that doesn’t make this version any less touching or emotional. Elemental teaches lessons of doing what you want to do with your life, pushing boundaries, and not following any script just because you feel like you should. It is about being yourself and teaches important lessons for viewers of all ages — yes, adults, you too can go off and do whatever you want to in this world.
On top of all that, it is gorgeous. There are many scenes that could be made into posters — should be made into posters — and hung on the wall. There is an effect in every single shot as the fire inside of Ember and the water inside of Wade is constantly moving.
That being said, Elemental isn’t perfect. It has a few flaws, including a touch and go first act, but once this movie finds itself, it finds itself. There’s a lot to love about this one. Don’t miss out and be sure to see it in theaters, on the big screen, with friends and family, when it releases on June 16th. In true Pixar fashion, you will have shed some tears by the time the credits roll, so be sure to have tissues handy.
Rating: 4 out of 5
NEXT: Designing Element City & Its Residents
About Pixar’s Elemental
Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental,” an all-new, original feature film set in Element City, where fire-, water-, land- and air-residents live together. The story introduces Ember, a tough, quick-witted and fiery young woman, whose friendship with a fun, sappy, go-with-the-flow guy named Wade challenges her beliefs about the world they live in.
