Opened: June 16, 2023

Directed by: Peter Sohn

Starring: Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Ronnie del Carmen, Shila Ommi, Wendi McLendon-Covey & Catherine O’Hara

Despite great animation that’s as striking as it is different, Elemental suffers from a familiar story and a lead character that’s hard to root for.

Ember (Leah Lewis) works with her father Bernie (Ronnie del Carmen) at his convenience store, which he plans to entrust to Ember “when she’s ready.” One day, Wade (Mamoudou Athie) accidentally bursts through the pipes in the store’s basement.

Unfortunately, the plot falls into many clichés. There’s racism between elements, Ember has never experienced the world around her until a man shows up, and she’s pleasing her parents while forgetting about herself. While kids will be entertained, adults will be bored with the results of complacency.

Shining amongst the voice cast is Catherine O’Hara as Wade’s mom. Even when she’s crying, she’ll have you cracking up.

Final say: Pixar loses touch with its audience. ★★☆☆☆