Elemental

Elemental sixty-ninth film from Pixar Animation Studios is a groundbreaking romantic film that departs from its usual approach to family and friendship. Directed by Peter Sohn, the film tells the story of a forbidden love between two elements that don't usually mix: fire and water. It also explores the immigrant experience through the story of a family in search of a new life in an unfamiliar city. The result is a palpable on-screen emotion that will leave no one unmoved.

The film follows Bernie and Cinder, who arrive in Element City from their home in Fireland. Despite the coexistence of fire, water, earth and air in the city, they face hostility and rejection as they seek shelter. Determined to build a future for their daughter Ember, Bernie and Cinder transform an old building into Fireplace, a store and café that becomes the heart of Firish culture.

Elemental expertly incorporates well-known tropes and archetypes, allowing viewers to become emotionally attached to the characters, despite their elemental forms. The animation is visually stunning, with the fire and water characters displaying intricate, fluid movements. The animated Element City, especially the Fire City, comes to life thanks to detailed animation and Thomas Newman's captivating music.

Elemental's animation is visually stunning, with Pixar's animators demonstrating their ability to use difficult substances such as fire and water. Character surfaces move constantly, and Element City's environments are vibrantly rendered. The film's music, composed by Thomas Newman, adds to the immersive experience. The film intelligently tackles the problems faced by immigrant families and the challenges of interracial relations. The film is not without its faults, as certain aspects could have been explored more fully, such as the problems of class and race in Element City.

What sets Elemental apart is its refreshing approach to romance. The love story between Ember and Wade, a water element, defies expectations and illustrates a modern form of love. Wade's emotional and generous nature contrasts with traditional Disney princes, making him a unique and endearing romantic main character. Mamoudou Athie's voice brings depth and tenderness to Wade's character, while Leah Lewis captures Ember's ardor and inner conflict.

Although the Elemental story may seem familiar, the film's visual brilliance and heartfelt romance make it well worth watching. The film intelligently explores themes of immigration, class mixing and the pursuit of dreams. By using sentient elemental beings as allegories of race and ethnicity, the film adds layers of depth and resonance. Although the plot could have delved deeper into the prejudices within Element City, the central romance and Ember's personal journey make for a compelling tale.

Elemental is a wonderful, moving film that showcases Pixar's storytelling prowess. Its imaginative world, engaging characters and powerful themes make it a remarkable addition to the Pixar studio's repertoire, and above all a new masterpiece at this animation studio whose every film is an undeniable success.

Elemental
Directed by Peter Sohn
Screenplay by John Hoberg, Kat Likkel, Brenda Hsueh
Story by Peter Sohn, John Hoberg, Kat Likkel, Brenda Hsueh
Produced by Denise Ream
Starring Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Ronnie del Carmen, Shila Ommi, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Catherine O'Hara, Mason Wertheimer, Joe Pera, Matt Yang King
Cinematography : David Bianchi, Jean-Claude Kalache
Edited by Stephen Schaffer
Music by Thomas Newman
Production companies: Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar Animation Studios
Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release dates : May 27, 2023 (Cannes), June 16, 2023 (United States), June 21, 2023 (France)
Running time : 109 minutes

Seen June 18, 2023 at Gaumont Disney Village, Room 1
Reviewed June 19, 2023 at Forum des images, Room 500 (thanks to club Allociné)

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