How Glordon Became Elio’s Most Beloved Character

In the captivating realm of animation, Pixar consistently finds ways to enchant audiences. Their latest film, Elio, follows the journey of an 11-year-old boy, recently orphaned and fascinated by space, who finds himself mistaken for Earth’s ambassador in an intergalactic council. Co-directed by Domee Shi, known for Turning Red, the film intricately weaves themes of connection, grief, and identity against a backdrop of vivid worlds and bizarre cosmic beings. Yet, it’s Glordon, an unexpectedly peculiar character, who has charmed viewers and stole the spotlight.

In an interview with ScreenRant, Shi and producer Mary Alice Drumm shared insights into the creative process behind Glordon’s design. Initially conceived from the inspiration of a tardigrade, known colloquially as a “water bear,” the character’s evolution took a fascinating turn. Drumm noted, “We wanted to create a space we’ve never seen before. But in doing so, we asked our animators to design a character with no eyes or eyebrows.” The result is a creature that embodies both charm and fear, making viewers empathize despite his otherworldly appearance.

Mary Alice Drumm: “You feel for him, you cry for him, you love him.”

Domee Shi: “It’s that perfect contrast between a horrifying design with crazy sharp teeth and then the cutest, sweetest boy voice coming out of that mouth.”

The Heart of Glordon’s Design

Glordon exemplifies Pixar’s masterful approach to character design, where emotional depth transcends traditional visual appeal. By abandoning the typical wide-eyed look, the filmmakers ingeniously communicated emotion through body language and exceptional voice acting, thanks to Remy Edgerly’s heartfelt performance. This creative gamble pays off as Glordon’s loyalty and gentle spirit shine through his seemingly menacing exterior.

The journey of Glordon and Elio (voiced by Yonas Kibreab) mirrors the film’s larger themes of understanding and acceptance, revealing that true connection often lies beneath the surface. This blend of contrasting visuals and sincere voice work encapsulates the essence of what makes Pixar beloved. Just as Bing Bong from Inside Out left an indelible mark on audiences, Glordon is set to join the ranks of Pixar’s iconic characters, proving that unique design choices can lead to profound emotional resonance.

Glordon: A Standout Sidekick

While Glordon may not be the leading character in Elio, his presence embodies the spirit of Pixar’s unforgettable sidekicks. The juxtaposition of his intimidating visuals with innocent vocal performances creates a dynamic that resonates with the film’s overarching narrative of empathy and miscommunication. He is not merely there for comic relief; rather, he serves as an essential narrative anchor that amplifies the film’s emotional core.

In a landscape where animation often relies on archetypal designs and familiar tropes, Glordon’s character stands as a testament to Pixar’s innovative storytelling and artistic bravery. As audiences flock to theaters to experience Elio, they’ll discover a character who reminds us that depth and connection exist even when the surface appears daunting. Like the iconic characters before him, Glordon’s journey is a gentle nudge that some of the best stories feature protagonists who need not meet typical expectations to forge strong connections.

Elio is now playing in theaters.