Overview

• Elio has grossed about $72 million globally—less than half its estimated $150 million production cost—marking the weakest opening in Pixar’s history.
• The film holds strong approval ratings with an 83% critics’ score and a 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, but positive reviews have not translated into ticket sales.
• On June 30, Pixar shared a snarky Instagram video urging viewers to support original films in theaters if they want more standalone stories.
• Industry analysts estimate Elio would need roughly $375 million worldwide to break even, a target it remains far from achieving.
• Pixar is reevaluating its release strategy by balancing original features against proven franchise sequels such as Toy Story 5 and planning the standalone original Hoppers for 2026.