Elio (2025) – A Cosmic Journey of Belonging and Bravery

Elio follows an imaginative 11-year-old orphan who accidentally becomes Earth’s ambassador to an alien council. Taken aboard a spectacular intergalactic sphere called the Communiverse, he’s tasked with preventing a cosmic crisis. Alongside a colorful alien friend, Elio faces unexpected challenges and personal growth—all wrapped in big ideas about belonging, identity, and purpose.

Elio celebrates the wonder of being uniquely created and loved—even when life feels lonely or confusing. His journey into the unknown mirrors the spiritual path of discovering God’s purpose in unfamiliar places. When fear grips him, it’s an invitation to trust beyond comfort zones—a reminder that our value isn’t defined by recognition or accomplishments, but by who God says we are.

The narrative moves briskly through intriguing worlds and light-hearted sci-fi suspense. Moments of bullying, peril, and brief violence are balanced with warmth, humor, and reflective pauses. While it leans on familiar Pixar-style beats, it remains engaging with both laughs and heart.

Yonas Kibreab’s voice work gives Elio heartfelt sincerity and awkward optimism, while Zoe Saldaña adds a caring steadiness as his aunt. The alien friend provides playful companionship and insight. Arcs stay somewhat light, but characters are relatable and foster empathy—especially for anyone who’s felt out of place.

Rated PG; a good fit for family movie night, especially for conversations about uniqueness, fear, courage, and trusting God. Appropriate for most kids ~6+, though a few tense or strange-creature moments may need parental reassurance.