Elemental is an animated family movie set in Element City, where different nature elements like fire and water live. The story follows Ember, a fiery young woman, and Wade, a watery young man, as they fall in love despite their differences. The movie acts as a clear metaphor for immigration and prejudice between different cultures. It also briefly introduces a non-binary character who has a girlfriend, adding LGBTQ+ themes to the background of the story.
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Breakdown
These are the editorial factors and ratings behind our score for Elemental.
Woke representation / casting
The movie features a diverse voice cast that reflects its immigration themes. It also includes Pixar's first openly non-binary character, Lake Ripple, voiced by a non-binary actor. This character also has a girlfriend. While this role is minor and in the background, the addition of a confirmed LGBTQ+ character increases the score under the system rules.
50%
Woke political dialogue
The movie does not have real-world political slogans or activist jargon. However, it does use highly visible metaphorical dialogue. Characters talk about how different elements cannot mix, and some characters express deep prejudice against outsiders. The script uses these lines to send a clear message about diversity and acceptance.
30%
Production
Identity-driven story themes
The entire plot serves as a metaphor for racial integration, cultural assimilation, and discrimination. The fire elements are forced into a poor neighborhood and face systemic exclusion from the rest of the city. This central metaphor is combined with a background LGBTQ+ relationship. The strong focus on these social issues shapes the entire narrative.
60%
Western institutional / cultural critique
Element City represents a modern Western city. The film critiques how the city's infrastructure and laws favor the majority while neglecting the fire element minority. It also touches on breaking away from traditional family expectations. However, Ember's traditional father is still shown as a loving and sympathetic character rather than a villain.
20%
Woke character or canon changes
Not present in this title.
0%
Anti-woke backlash and complaints
The movie faced strong criticism from conservative commentators and viewers online. Many accused Pixar of pushing an immigration agenda and identity politics. When the film had a weak opening weekend at the box office, critics quickly labeled it another "go woke, go broke" failure for Disney, though it eventually performed better over time.
65%
Creator track record context
The key creative team has a mixed track record. Co-writer Kat Likkel has a high score due to her leadership role with the Geena Davis Institute. Co-writer Brenda Hsueh also actively supports diversity pledges. However, director Peter Sohn and executive producer Pete Docter have lower scores and generally focus on traditional storytelling.
24%
