Pixar’s newest release, Elemental, boasts an incredible cast of characters, but there’s no one who better defines the film than director Peter Sohn. As he describes it, this epic animated adventure about a Scottish piper who embarks on a quest to save his homeland from destruction is something completely new and unique, with its own inventive cultures and customs.
In a recent interview, Sohn spoke about the inspiration and process of driving the production of Elemental. He revealed that the method for forming the customs of the different cultures in the movie was fairly organic and freeform. As the characters traveled to new lands, Sohn and his team took cues from the surrounding environment, adding little quirks and twists that would help define the cultures.
The production crew also embraced the rich cultural history of Scotland to form the foundation of the land. From the obvious such as the saturated yellow-green of the glens to the less obvious such as the histories and myths of the different clans, the culture of Scotland was integral in the development of the movie’s settings.
Pixar also made sure to add a few humorous touches to the settings and characters to add a touch of whimsy to the movie. In addition, the crew put a great deal of work into creating incredibly detailed costumes, sets and props to fill out the diverse cultures of the world of Elemental.
Ultimately, Sohn’s great vision and the dedication of the crew to make their imaginings a reality have come together to create a beautiful and captivating movie. In addition to its stunning visuals, Elemental speaks to viewers on an emotional level, immersing them in its world and cultures, and providing a unique and powerful experience. It’s no wonder, then, that Sohn’s work has received skillful praise from critics and movie-goers alike.
