Elio is the latest animated blockbuster from Pixar, recently released in Vietnamese theaters. The film takes audiences on a whimsical journey through the vastness of space, stepping into the realm of the Communiverse, where various civilizations from outside our planet intersect. The main character is Elio, a shy and imaginative young boy who unexpectedly finds himself transported to a distant galaxy, only to discover he is the ambassador for Earth. From there, Elio becomes entangled in a series of bizarre situations as he has to represent humanity to the peculiar extraterrestrial beings he encounters.
Apart from its engaging storyline and stunning visuals, the film’s unique elements resonate with the “new age” theme. Elio also unexpectedly pays homage to Vietnamese culture through a subtle detail. Specifically, there is a colorful drink in the film that captivates the audience’s attention. This drink is not just a random detail; it pays tribute to a Vietnamese specialty crafted by Vinh Lê, the film’s artistic director, who has been closely associated with Pixar for over five years.
Born in Ho Chi Minh City and later moving to the United States, Vinh Lê brings a unique Vietnamese perspective to his work. He had the opportunity to return to his homeland in 2009, an experience that profoundly shaped his artistic vision, especially in exploring culinary experiences that evoke nostalgia. When tasked with designing a drink representing a distant civilization in the Elio universe, Vinh Lê instinctively turned to Vietnamese tea, a humble yet vibrant delicacy characterized by its colorful ingredients, from various jelly balls to green beans and herbs. He shared his desire to create a beverage that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also invokes feelings of warmth, joy, and friendliness, perfectly aligning with the film’s spirit.
The drink, named Glorp (as referred to in the film), is a vibrant purple beverage with a swirling straw and is filled with colorful jelly balls. While many viewers might connect it to bubble tea due to its colorful nature, the initial source of inspiration is indeed Vietnamese tea. What is remarkable is that Glorp does not merely appear as a fleeting detail but has also been featured prominently in an AMC theater promotion, serving as a beloved symbol of the Elio universe.
Not only is Vinh Lê the mind behind a small detail in Elio, but he has also earned praise from Vietnamese audiences for embodying cultural connections in the artistic realm. With a deep affection for his homeland, he hopes to continue showcasing Vietnamese imagery to the world through future animated projects.
In addition to this tea detail, another connection to Vietnam surfaces in the film, delighting Vietnamese viewers. At the film’s climax, Elio and his companion venture into the universe and encounter various civilizations, including Vietnam. During this journey, a line appears that reads: “I am the Prince of Vietnam.” Just six characters, yet it resonates deeply with Vietnamese viewers, evoking a sense of pride while watching the film in theaters.
