Things aren’t looking good for Pixar’s latest film.
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Pixar’s latest release, Elio, has faced some challenges at the box office, grossing slightly over $70 million since its debut on June 20, 2025. This performance marks a notable disappointment, especially when it’s compared to the studio’s past successes. Films like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and Inside Out easily captivated audiences and generated substantial box office revenues, but Elio has struggled to capture the same magic.
The film scooped only $20 million during its opening weekend, prompting many to speculate whether Pixar is losing its touch in the animated film landscape. Factors such as competition from other studios and shifting viewer preferences, shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic, have likely played a significant role in the film’s reception. While Pixar managed to see success with its 2023 film Elemental and the sequel to Inside Out, Elio appears to be an anomaly amidst these more favorable outcomes.
Changes During Production
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Reports indicate that Elio underwent considerable alterations during production, particularly regarding its main character’s portrayal. Originally designed to embody a queer-coded identity, Elio’s characterization was shifted to a more conventional masculine representation. This change was largely influenced by feedback from Pixar’s leadership, who believed a different approach would resonate better with audiences.
A notable aspect of these alterations was the removal of LGBTQ+ themes, which has been met with criticism. In an earlier iteration of the film, there were scenes that hinted at Elio’s potential attraction to another character. One sequence reportedly included him putting on a fashion show while helping to clean up the beach, presenting a more vibrant and expressive side that is now absent. Critics of these changes argue that they contribute to a narrative that lacks depth and fails to address important themes of identity, further diminishing the film’s potential impact.
Reception from Pixar Employees
The modifications made during the production of Elio haven’t gone unnoticed among Pixar employees. Many insiders have expressed concern and disappointment over the drastic changes, labeling the film’s current iteration as “catastrophic.” Former staff members have voiced that the original essence of the film was lost when significant elements related to Elio’s identity were removed.
Quoting one former Pixar artist, the reduction of these crucial aspects turned Elio into “something about totally nothing.” Such sentiments highlight a growing apprehension among employees about the studio culture and leadership’s approach to storytelling. These internal reactions not only cast a shadow on Elio but also reveal broader implications concerning the studio’s commitment to diverse representation and its authenticity in depicting characters.
The Future of Elio and Disney’s Strategy
While Elio currently faces bleak prospects at the box office, some experts speculate that it may find a second chance when it transitions to Disney+. The potential for revival on streaming platforms has been observed with other films that initially struggled in theaters, including Pixar’s own Elemental.
Audience test screenings for Elio suggested that while viewers enjoyed the film, it failed to create strong enough enthusiasm for big-screen attendance. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Disney’s broader strategy regarding animated content. As Pixar navigates these complex waters, the long-term effects of Elio’s initial performance could impact the studio’s reputation.
By carefully analyzing audience feedback and revisiting inclusive storytelling practices, Pixar may find a way to recover its standing in the animation industry. The studio’s legacy has largely thrived on innovation and authenticity, and re-aligning with those principles may enhance its next creations.
Ultimately, the path forward for Elio and Pixar will depend on audience reception and the studio’s willingness to embrace a diverse and authentic approach, balancing creative vision with associated market demands.
