Will Pixar’s 'Elio' Repeat 'Elemental’s Comeback'? Despite Box Office Flop, Fans Say It’s Worth Watching — Here’s Why
They praise Elio’s heartfelt story, stunning visuals, and classic movie references.
Pixar’s Elio has had a rough start at the box office — pulling in just $35 million worldwide against a whopping $150 million budget. Despite "Certified Fresh" 84% critic scores and a 91% "Verified Hot" audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film stumbled hard in theaters. Pixar’s hoping Elio can turn things around this summer with stronger word of mouth and fan support.
But is the movie actually worth your time? Let’s see what fans who’ve watched it are saying on Reddit — spoilers ahead.
Fans Praise the Spielbergian Feel and Emotional Payoff
One Reddit user said:
"I really enjoyed how Spielbergian this movie was. The first and third acts in particular felt like an animated version of a classic 80’s/90’s Amblin movie. The second act drags a little, but the animation is so beautiful it kept me engaged, even as some plot points felt like filler to get us to the emotional payoff."
Nostalgia meets Pixar’s signature heartfelt storytelling, and it seems to hit home for many
Alien Humor Brings Smiles Amid the Drama
Another fan loved the subtle nods:
"The alien reference when Elio popped out of his aunt’s biohazard suit gave me a good chuckle."
Pixar’s mix of adult-friendly humor and emotional depth shines through, making Elio more than just a kids’ flick.
Unexpected Tears and Stunning Visuals
"I didn’t expect to cry that much. The space station appearing above Earth is one of the most beautiful sequences Pixar has ever animated, and that’s saying something."
This emotional resonance might be why fans feel the film deserves a second chance, despite the slow box office start.
Why Did Pixar Keep Elio So Quiet — And Should You Still Watch It?
Like Elemental before it, Elio faced strong reviews but struggled at the box office, partly due to Disney/Pixar’s surprisingly quiet marketing. This may explain why both films failed to find their audiences initially. Still, if you enjoy heartfelt sci-fi with breathtaking animation and a dash of nostalgia, Elio is worth your time — just expect a slower-paced story that builds to a deeply emotional climax.
