Elemental (2023)

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August 11, 2025

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Elemental (2023)

Director: Peter Sohn
Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
Release Date: June 16, 2023
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family

Plot Overview

Elemental takes place in a world where the four elements—fire, water, land, and air—exist in harmony, each governed by their own societies and individuals. The film focuses on Ember (voiced by Leah Lewis), a fiery young woman from the Fire District, who dreams of a life beyond the confines of her family’s struggling shop. She meets Wade (voiced by Mamoudou Athie), a compassionate, soft-spoken water being from the Water District. Together, they must navigate their cultural differences, deal with misunderstandings between their elements, and confront their own feelings about identity and community. The movie tells a heartfelt story of personal growth, the clash of contrasting worlds, and the importance of finding common ground.

Animation & Visuals

Pixar’s usual craftsmanship is on full display with Elemental. The animation is stunning, from the meticulously detailed, vibrant world-building to the expressive character designs. The elemental beings are designed with creative flair, with Ember’s fiery nature contrasted against the cool, fluid movements of Wade. The environments—especially the stark differences between the four elemental districts—are beautifully realized, making each setting feel unique and alive. Whether it’s the fiery hues of Ember’s world or the serene, flowing motion of water in Wade’s domain, the visuals are consistently breathtaking. The use of light, shadow, and texture adds to the immersive feel, elevating the emotional stakes and overall cinematic experience.

Themes & Storytelling

At its core, Elemental explores the themes of diversity, acceptance, and finding one’s true path in life. The relationship between Ember and Wade mirrors real-world challenges faced by individuals from different backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of communication, compromise, and understanding. The film tackles the clash of cultures, particularly when people (or elements) with starkly different traits are forced to work together.

Ember’s struggle with her identity—caught between her family’s expectations and her own dreams—resonates deeply. As she grows and learns more about herself, Elemental becomes a metaphor for breaking free from societal constraints and embracing individuality. The storyline is heartfelt and relatable, making it more than just a kids’ movie—it’s a universal exploration of the human experience.

Characters

Ember, voiced by Leah Lewis, is a fiery spirit both literally and figuratively. She is headstrong, passionate, and at times impulsive. Lewis’ performance brings depth to Ember’s internal struggle, especially as she grapples with her family’s legacy and her desire to forge her own path. The character of Wade, voiced by Mamoudou Athie, is a perfect complement to Ember. Wade is fluid, adaptable, and understanding, embodying the calm and patience that contrasts with Ember’s intense nature. The chemistry between these two characters forms the heart of the movie.

The supporting characters—especially Ember’s family—add a layer of warmth and complexity to the story. Ember’s parents, who want her to follow in their footsteps, embody the tension between tradition and change, while the quirky citizens of each district provide both comic relief and poignant moments that enrich the film.

Soundtrack & Music

The music in Elemental is a key part of the movie’s emotional resonance. Composer Thomas Newman delivers a rich, atmospheric score that enhances the narrative without overwhelming it. The music mirrors the film’s themes, often shifting between the tension of Ember’s internal conflict and the calm of her relationship with Wade. The soundtrack also helps build the different atmospheres of the elemental districts, from the fiery intensity of Ember’s world to the flowing tranquility of Wade’s.

Pacing & Direction

Directed by Peter Sohn, Elemental balances humor, heart, and action with ease. The pacing is steady, with a few emotional peaks that might tug at the heartstrings, and it doesn’t rush the development of its characters. The movie takes its time to explore the relationship between Ember and Wade, and their growing understanding of one another feels organic. However, the pacing might feel slower for younger audiences expecting constant action, but for those who appreciate a more introspective animated film, this provides a rich, fulfilling experience.

Humor

Pixar’s signature wit is present in Elemental, but the humor is grounded in the unique world of the elements. There are clever visual gags, particularly with how the different elements interact in everyday scenarios, and the chemistry between the characters adds to the lighthearted moments. Despite its thematic depth, the film never loses sight of fun, making it accessible for younger viewers while still engaging for adults.

Final Thoughts

Elemental is a beautiful, thought-provoking addition to Pixar’s legacy. The movie weaves a compelling narrative about identity, community, and the complexities of understanding one another. While its pacing may not be for everyone, the film’s heart, stunning animation, and meaningful messages ensure that it will resonate with audiences of all ages. Elemental is a reminder that, despite our differences, we all have something valuable to offer when we come together.