Pixar’s latest adventure film ‘Elio’ blasts off into space
It's the latest directorial work from Domee Shi, following "Turning Red" and "Bao."
Elio (voiced by Yonas Kibreab)
Disney/Pixar
Words by Daniel Anderson
Disney has released the full trailer for Elio, Pixar’s latest animated adventure, set to hit theaters on June 20. Originally scheduled for a March 1, 2024 release, the film faced delays and a director change before landing its summer debut. Initially helmed by Adrian Molina, Elio later shifted to directors Domee Shi—known for her Oscar-winning short Bao and her directorial work on Turning Red—and Madeline Sharafian.
The film follows 11-year-old Elio, voiced by Yonas Kibreab, who is mistakenly identified as Earth’s ambassador after being abducted by aliens and transported to the Communiverse, a council of intergalactic representatives. In the trailer, Elio, a space-obsessed dreamer, beams a message into the universe, unknowingly inviting an alien encounter that thrusts him into a galactic identity crisis.
Kibreab, who is of mixed-Filipino heritage, leads a diverse voice cast that includes Jameela Jamil, Zoe Saldaña, Brad Garrett, Remy Edgerly, and Shirley Henderson. The film also underwent a casting change, with Saldaña stepping in for America Ferrera, who originally voiced Elio’s mother before the character was reworked into Elio’s Aunt Olga.
Published on March 20, 2025
Words by Daniel Anderson
Daniel Anderson is a disabled Chinese American adoptee based in Seattle. His freelance writing specialties include K-pop, entertainment, and food. He believes that any restaurant can be a buffet, and the key to success is to take a nap each day. Follow his adventures on Instagram @danzstan.