Pixar has faced a challenging period, spanning nearly three years since the onset of the pandemic. However, the real issue is not merely the challenges faced, but rather the fading relevance of this “big brother” in the global animation landscape, especially compared to competitors like DreamWorks, Illumination, and even Disney itself. A studio renowned for winning numerous Oscars is now struggling to regain its footing, which is hard to believe, but it is indeed the reality. The failures of Lightyear and Turning Red have forced Pixar to take a step back, while the entire industry continues to evolve, putting pressure on their latest film, Elemental – Elements of Nature.
Elemental carries significant pressure: it concluded the Cannes Film Festival 2023 as Pixar’s only “warrior” in this year’s awards season. Elemental had a shaky start at the box office, facing low opening weekend revenues and considerable scrutiny. However, the tides began to turn as Elemental started to gain momentum, achieving the top spot at the Vietnamese box office, and the film, once dubbed a “disaster,” has transformed into a beloved favorite among audiences. So what factors contributed to Elemental‘s positive reception?
Reconnecting with humanity – the core strength of Pixar
The strong point that stands out in Pixar’s films is not unique to Elemental but is present in all their productions, which is their ability to build emotional narratives. In Elemental, the main setting takes place in a world where the four elemental “cornerstones” of water, air, earth, and fire coexist, struggling to thrive together.
This coexistence is central to the film’s narrative, with an impressive depiction of the elemental world, yet it remains relatable, portraying the everyday lives of its inhabitants. The concept of “coexistence” is presented by director Peter Sohn quite thoughtfully, particularly through the interactions among the elemental characters. Among the elements, fire (Ember) appears to be the “outlier” compared to the others: it makes water flow, heats the air, and makes the earth dry. The depiction of the elemental characters being separated, much like the inherent differences that exist within society, highlights a significant theme: the need for unity in diversity.
However, Peter Sohn does not entirely ignore the central theme, as he depicts the elemental conflicts through the lens of cultural differences. With the concept of “elements with distinct attributes,” it becomes a critical determinant in the narrative of Elemental. Ember represents the fiery spirit of a young woman striving to break free from the pressures of family legacy, while Wade embodies the easygoing nature of water, flowing effortlessly through life. Their different backgrounds and personalities draw them together, but they also pose significant barriers. Elemental presents itself as a modern-day version of Romeo and Juliet, yet Ember and Wade are developed with a more nuanced perspective.
Ember can be seen as a representation of the Asian girl archetype, challenging the expectations of her family, yet facing immense pressure to uphold family traditions or find her own “flame of freedom.” Meanwhile, Wade, as a carefree young man from the West, thrives effortlessly and embodies the “nurturing” aspect of his family. The two find themselves drawn to each other, and their differences, while initially daunting, become a source of strength as they navigate their relationship.
Despite the overwhelming influence of Ember’s family legacy, their contrasting backgrounds highlight the delicate balance between water and fire, with the central theme of Elemental ultimately emphasizing the importance of coexistence, acceptance, and love. The film concludes powerfully, resonating with Pixar’s spirit, demonstrating that love transcends boundaries and that our differences can ultimately bring us closer together.
Rating: 3.5/5
It is clear that the narrative of Elemental follows a fairly “standard” trajectory, unfolding over a conventional timeline and lacking any significant “twists” that create shock. Numerous details in the film also seem underdeveloped, such as the notion that water entities possess sentience alongside other “non-sentient” forms of water. Or that Wade’s affection for Ember develops too quickly and thus may not convince audiences.
This will undeniably be a significant sacrifice for Pixar, creating a contrasting discourse but necessary. Pixar is ready to “burn its own house down” to ensure a stronger rebirth in the future, as it strives to maintain its longstanding legacy while also evolving in the face of changing audience expectations.
Elemental is currently screening in theaters nationwide.
Image: Disney
