I Thought I Was Done Crying Over Animated Movies, Then "Elemental" Came Along

1 year ago 5

I don't know what Disney puts in their Pixar projects, but whenever I watch one of their movies I always walk away feeling really emotional or really inspired.

And that's just what happened after I watched their latest film Elemental! Elemental tells the story of a fiery woman and a sensitive, go-with-the-flow guy who learn just how much they have in common, despite being taught about all of their differences.

There's always a feel-good message and powerful themes hidden in every Pixar movie, and this one is all about feeling like "other." It's explored through the eyes of immigrants, and touches on acceptance, discrimination, and sacrifice.

Disney / Pixar

I love how Elemental dissects such serious topics and makes them easily digestible for both adult and young audiences, without sounding preachy. Even if you aren't an immigrant, I'm sure most people have felt like an outsider — whether it be at school, work, in a friend group, or even in your own home.

Disney / Pixar

Ember and Wade are the stars of the film. Ember is a fire element and Wade is a water element. They've been taught that their elements don't mix, but Ember and Wade find ways for them to co-exist together, along with the other elements (Earth and air).

And what makes this story even more special is that this story was inspired by Elemental creator and director Peter Sohn. His parents are Korean immigrants who moved to the world's largest melting pot: New York. Several of the scenarios featured in the film are a reflection of real-life experiences he and his family went through.

Outside of the storyline, the characters are extremely lovable. Everyone is working towards living their best life, but they all have a different idea of what that means and how they can achieve it. Relatable much?

Being a fire sign (hey, fellow leos), I could easily relate to Ember's passionate personality and desire to not only make her family proud, but herself as well. But I'm also a big mush, so Wade's sensitive approach to life hit home for me as well.

They're both learning about themselves as days goes by and that happens in the human world as well. I'm constantly learning about myself, my likes and dislikes, expectations of people I surround myself with, how to navigate my career path, and so much more. So, it was really easy to connect with the characters.

Disney / Pixar

But what really sold me with this movie was the animation style and the dedication the art team put into making these elements move and react like...well, elements. The subtle attention to detail and range of applied colors makes the film visually-striking!

Disney / Pixar

When i tell you I was so impressed when I first noticed Wade would start boiling whenever Ember was near! It may sound small to you, but I thought it was really cool.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this film and by the time the credits were rolling, I was wiping tears away from my eyes. It's an important tale of inclusion, identity, and the beauty of diversity.

If you're in the mood for a feel-good film or just need another excuse to ball your eyes out, be sure to check out Elemental, which is currently playing in a theater near you!

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