Pete Docter Discusses Cutting Queer ‘Elio’ Storyline for Universal Appeal
Pete Docter, the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, recently discussed the decision to remove a significant storyline from the upcoming animated film, Elio. This change reflects an effort to broaden the film’s appeal to families. Originally, the storyline drew on experiences from Adrian Molina, the film’s first director, who is openly gay.
Reasons Behind the Change in Elio’s Storyline
Docter shared insights with the Wall Street Journal regarding the creative rethink. The studio found that some parents were hesitant about exposing their children to themes that they felt were inappropriate. He stated, “We’re making a movie, not hundreds of millions of dollars of therapy.”
Overview of Elio
Elio follows an 11-year-old protagonist who forms unique bonds with extraterrestrial beings. The initial version included a storyline where Elio raises a child with a male partner in the future. However, this was altered to align with broader audience expectations.
Shift in Pixar’s Creative Direction
Pixar is shifting its focus from artist-driven narratives to stories with wider appeal. Previously, projects like Turning Red showcased individualized semi-autobiographical stories. Now, under Docter’s leadership, the goal is to craft films that resonate with a larger audience.
Future Projects and Sequels
- Toy Story 5 is set for release this summer.
- Sequels for The Incredibles and Monsters, Inc. are in development.
Docter emphasized the importance of maintaining quality in Pixar’s productions. He believes that as long as the studio delivers consistently high-quality films, it will remain valuable to Disney. “If we’re going to just crank crap out, let’s shut the doors,” he remarked, highlighting the commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Current Releases
Meanwhile, Pixar’s latest film, Hoppers, directed by Daniel Chong, is currently in theaters. This project represents the studio’s ongoing evolution in animation and storytelling.
