Elio’s Sequel: Will Pixar’s Cosmic Hit Get a Second Act?

Thescreescore – Elio, Pixar’s latest offering, has landed, and the film’s directors are already hinting at the possibility of a sequel. The 2025 release, which follows young Elio’s alien abduction and his unexpected role as Earth’s ambassador, has garnered rave reviews. But could this intergalactic adventure continue? According to directors Madeline Sharafian and Domee Shi, in a conversation with thescreescore.com’s Ash Crossan, the answer is a resounding maybe. Shi reveals that the film "leaves the door open" for a sequel, emphasizing the vastness of the Elio universe and the numerous alien worlds ripe for exploration. Sharafian echoes this sentiment, hinting at discarded story elements from the original film that could easily fuel a future installment.

"We leave the door open," Shi stated. "The universe is so vast, and the world of Elio is so rich. There are so many more aliens and planets we could visit." Sharafian added, "There were so many aliens we had to trim for time, characters with featured moments that were so funny. They had whole backstories, families…there’s so much there. A whole story. So much more." Shi specifically mentioned her desire to explore Glordon’s backstory and the intriguing "Blood Wars."

Sequel Chances: A Cosmic Gamble?

Pixar’s history is replete with successful franchises, and Elio, given its early critical acclaim, seems poised to follow suit. The film’s box office performance will be a key determinant, but the directors’ confirmed interest in further stories suggests a sequel is a strong possibility. Pixar chief creative officer Pete Docter’s criteria for sequels—a successful original film and compelling sequel ideas—are already partially met.

Our Verdict: A Stellar Opportunity

Pixar’s reliance on a limited number of franchises makes Elio a welcome addition to its roster, alongside classics like Toy Story and The Incredibles. While recent Pixar originals haven’t always guaranteed box office success, Elio’s positive critical reception and strong word-of-mouth could significantly boost its chances. For fans hoping for a return trip to Elio’s vibrant alien world, keeping an eye on the film’s financial performance is crucial. The fate of this cosmic adventure, it seems, rests on the stars.