Pixar’s ‘Elio’ Trailer Previews Family Space Adventure

“I just want to belong somewhere.”

This line from the title character in Pixar’s upcoming film Elio seems to summarize his motivation behind launching himself into an interplanetary, alien-filled journey. And by the looks of this new trailer, it’s a theme that may echo throughout the narrative.

That looks like some colorful, witty fun, which is on-brand for a Pixar film sure to pack a hefty thematic bag as well.

A synopsis from Disney reads, “What if the thing you were searching for found you first? In Pixar Animation Studios’ big-screen comedic misadventure, alien-obsessed Elio discovers the answer to that question when he is transported to the Communiverse, an interplanetary paradise that is home to intelligent life from galaxies far and wide. But when he’s mistaken as Earth’s leader, he’ll have to form unexpected bonds, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions, and make sure he doesn’t lose the opportunity to live out his ultimate dream.”

The film is directed by Madeline Sharafian (Burrow, SparkShort), Domee Shi (Bao, Turning Red), and Adrian Molina (co-screenwriter/co-director of Coco). It’s produced by Mary Alice Drumm (associate producer of Coco).

The cast features voice performances by Yonas Kibreab as Elio, Zoe Saldaña as Aunt Olga, Remy Edgerly as Glordon, Brad Garrett as Lord Grigon, Jameela Jamil as Ambassador Questa, and Shirley Henderson as OOOOO.

A search? A misadventure? Dreams? This definitely has some classic Amblin adventure vibes from the ’80s, like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial mixed with with a splash or two of Lilo & Stitch. But if we know Pixar, the familiar is just a vehicle to take us to more surprising destinations. We’ll keep an eye to the stars for this family adventure coming this summer.

Elio releases in theaters nationwide on June 20, 2025. Are you looking forward to this one?