Pixar releases trailer for latest film, Korean American-directed ‘Elemental’

The romantic drama is set in Element City, a place where water, fire, land and air elements live. Ember Lumen, a fire element, and Wade Ripple, a water element, come from different parts of the city but experience a strong connection with each other despite not being able to touch. Ember is notably voiced by Lewis, who has previously starred in Netflix’s “The Half of It.”

In addition to Lewis and Athie, the film’s cast includes Catherine O’Hara, Shila Ommi, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ronnie del Carmen, Joe Pera and Mason Wertheimer, among others.

The film was executive produced by Peter Doctor, the writer behind hit Pixar films such as “Inside Out” and “Soul,” and Brenda Hsueh, who has written for TV shows such as “How I Met Your Mother.”

Sohn told The Hollywood Reporter in November 2022 that both of his parents passed away while “Elemental” was still in development.

“I am quite emotional about getting the characters and the story out for sure,” Sohn shared. “This movie is about thanking your parents and understanding their sacrifices. My parents both passed away during the making of this thing. And so, it is hugely emotional, and I’m still processing a lot of it. But at the same time, there’s so much amazing work that the team has done that I’m quite proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

Sohn also previously revealed that part of “Elemental” was inspired by culture clashes and issues that arose after he married a non-Korean, since his parents and grandmother originally wanted him to marry a Korean.

The Korean American filmmaker has previously worked on classic Pixar films such as “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille.” “Elemental” is his directorial debut.

“Carl’s Date,” a short film from the “Up” universe, will be shown in select theaters before “Elemental” is screened.

Check out the trailer below: