By Margaret Rose Siytangco

Pixar is well-known to churn out movies that tug on your heartstrings. From Toy Story to their latest offering Elemental, that winning formula has been ever-present. And this movie is no exception.

Elemental is a feast for the eyes that kids will devour happily. It reminds me of Zootopia and how wonderful their world is. And this one was absolutely stunning.

I watched it with the heart of a Disney-Pixar baby and the eyes of a parent and I can say that this is a kids' movie. Children of all ages will see a story about family, immigration and enjoy it. There is romance as well, which delighted many a person in the audience (based on the number of giggles and “yihees” I heard in the theater).

As a parent, I’m excited about this movie because it’s a treasure trove of science facts and great learning. Much like Wall-E and learning about pollution and its effect on the planet, Elemental will teach children about…well… elements. Fire, water, earth, and air and how it affects each other. There are no baddies to be scared of. Nothing that will cause trauma and will definitely help teach folks about the importance of controlling their temper and not playing with fire.

If Pixar can have princesses, Joy of Inside Out would be one of them. They just gained a new leading lady, Ember who is a hot one to handle. Wade Ripple is her romantic other half and I’m smiling as finally, young men have an example that you don’t have to be macho or tough all the time.

The quiet sensitive boys and men out there are finally represented. And what with the hot Ember and the emotional Wade… this time, inclusivity isn’t shoved down your throat. You don’t always have to be girly, cheerful or perfect. You don’t have to be the tough guy. You can just be you. And you can be loved.

If you want to spend quality time with your kids, this movie is worth the money. And it’ll keep on giving because it is fodder for a lot of future discussions down the road. Well done Pixar.

What a terrific family movie.