The Inspiration and Critique of Pixar's 'Elemental'

"Elemental" director Peter Sohn discusses the personal inspiration behind the film, which reflects his parents' immigration story from Korea to New York. The film depicts the elements of fire, water, land, and air as residents of Elemental City, with a love story between a fiery young woman and a water being. Sohn talks about the challenges of animating characters that are wholly effects and injecting soul into fire and water elements. The film celebrates immigration and the sacrifices made by first-generation immigrants, with a message of appreciation and empathy for different cultures.