Elemental opens in theaters on June 16, 2023

Believability and Logic in Animated Fantasy Films

When it comes to animated fantasy films marketed to kids, it’s best not to overanalyze and critique their believability. Questioning the manufacturing of cars in “Cars” or the uniqueness of Cinderella’s foot size is just being a spoilsport. Instead, if the movie is enjoyable and keeps children entertained, it’s best to go with the flow. However, with Pixar’s latest film, “Elemental,” the internal logic becomes fundamentally frustrating, despite its visual beauty and other appealing elements.

A Metaphor for Immigration

“Elemental” takes place in Element City, a bustling metropolis where anthropomorphized elements such as water, fire, air, and earth coexist. The arrival of the Firish, a group of fire-like beings, highlights the issues of immigration, prejudice, and assimilation faced by the younger generation. While this metaphor isn’t groundbreaking, the inclusion of sentient clouds playing their own version of Quidditch adds a unique touch.

Brisk Pace and Unique Characters

The film starts with a swift pace, showcasing the visual splendor of the world. Water flows and blobs around, sometimes causing problems for the fire people and nearby trees. The protagonist, Ember Lumen, is the daughter of proud Firish immigrants and finds herself facing adversity when disaster strikes. She crosses paths with Wade Ripple, a sniveling bureaucrat, and their unlikely friendship forms the heart of the story.

Annoying Characters and Unaddressed Questions

The biggest drawback of the film is the annoyance factor of both Ember and Wade. Ember is constantly angry, while Wade is a sobbing twerp who falls in love with her for no apparent reason. Additionally, the lack of clarification about the difference between living water, like Wade, and regular water is confusing. The film raises other unresolved storylines, such as dangerous leaks in the city, which are abandoned without proper explanation.

The Question of Love and Forced Metaphors

The central conflict revolves around whether Ember and Wade, two individuals from different worlds, can ever be together since they turn to steam upon touch. This metaphorical obstacle feels forced, and the film’s messages about self-belief and following dreams become a bit heavy-handed, reminiscent of after-school specials. In contrast, films like “Minions” prioritize entertainment over life lessons.

Puns and Visual Splendor

Despite its flaws, “Elemental” is not lacking in humor, featuring plenty of puns and witty lines. The dinner scene where Ember visits the Ripple family is particularly enjoyable. Moreover, the film’s visual elements are consistently dazzling, ensuring there’s never a dull moment on screen.