I just watched Elemental tonight at home… why in the actual WORLD is there not more fanfare about Wade Ripple?! I love this character so much it’s insane. After I watched the movie I was trying to put into words why Wade is so unbelievably lovable. Is it cause he’s funny? Yes. Cause he’s adorable? Yup. Cause he’s sweet as pie? Absolutely!
But I think the main reason is because Wade is such a caring, emotionally intelligent and tender male protagonist. I don’t know if I’ve seen many archetypes like this, in most adult content, much less a “children’s” movie. But something about seeing emotions on a male character was so therapeutic! To see tears, unveiled love and a high perception of feelings was a breath of fresh air.
I think we, in our media culture, are in love with bad ass, strong silent type men (me included!) But seeing Wade be so far from that stereotype was riveting. It also got me thinking how sad it is that Wade’s loving, impassioned existence is more fantasy then reality. Give me all the sensitive, crybaby, lovey dovey boys please! (And can we just give Mamoudou a round of applause?! Like his voice work was so on point! He brought so much nuisance and charm to this character. I feel like I fell in love with his voice. Geez I was not trying to come out of this with a crush!)
But Pixar and Peter Sohn did not have to go as hard as they did on immigrant realities, parental exceptions or different culture relationships. Plus the movie was STUNNING and the music was rocking!!This is what the studio used to feel like and I’m here for it! Keep em’ coming!
