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Pixar’s 2023 animated feature Elemental, directed by Peter Sohn, is a visually dazzling and emotionally resonant tale set in Element City, where fire, water, earth, and air residents coexist. The film’s narrative, centered on the unlikely romance between fiery Ember Lumen and watery Wade Ripple, is elevated by a masterful soundtrack composed by Thomas Newman. Known for his work on Pixar films like Finding Nemo (2003), WALL-E (2008), and Finding Dory (2016), Newman’s score for Elemental weaves together global musical influences, creating a rich sonic landscape that mirrors the film’s multicultural themes. Alongside Newman’s score, the soundtrack features the original song “Steal the Show” by Lauv, adding a contemporary pop flair. This article explores the music of Elemental, delving into its role in the film, its cultural significance, and intriguing trivia, with ten musical examples highlighted.
The Sound of Element City
Newman’s score for Elemental is a celebration of diversity, reflecting the film’s setting in a bustling metropolis inspired by immigrant communities. To capture the essence of Element City, Newman incorporated instruments from various cultural traditions, including the Indian sitar, Chinese bamboo flutes, and Middle Eastern mandolins. These choices align with the film’s narrative, which draws from Sohn’s experiences as a child of Korean immigrants in 1970s New York City. The score’s eclectic sound palette—blending traditional instruments with electronic elements like the Electronic Wind Instrument (EWI)—creates a vibrant, otherworldly atmosphere that feels both familiar and fantastical.
The recording process took place at the Newman Scoring Stage and Fox Studio Lot in Los Angeles, where Newman and his team meticulously crafted a score that shifts rapidly to match the film’s dynamic mood changes. Unlike live-action films, where music often sustains a single mood, Elemental’s animated nature demands quick transitions, with Newman noting that “animation changes a lot more mood shifts a lot quicker”. This approach ensures the music remains an active participant in storytelling, enhancing the emotional depth of Ember and Wade’s journey.
“Steal the Show” by Lauv
In the Film
The original song “Steal the Show” by Lauv, co-written with Newman and Michael Matosic, plays a pivotal role in Elemental. Featured during Ember and Wade’s romantic dates, the electro-pop track captures the excitement and tenderness of their blossoming relationship. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody underscore moments of connection, such as their playful interactions in Element City’s vibrant streets. The song reappears during the end credits, providing a feel-good conclusion that leaves audiences humming along. Its placement in the film highlights the universal appeal of love, transcending the elemental differences between fire and water.
Trivia
“Steal the Show” was released as a single on June 2, 2023, two weeks before the film’s theatrical debut, building anticipation for Elemental. Lauv collaborated closely with Newman, drawing inspiration from the composer’s early score drafts. The song’s lyrics reflect Ember and Wade’s dynamic, with lines like “We’re stealing the show, lighting up the night” evoking their fiery and fluid chemistry. Fans on platforms like ResetEra praised the track for its seamless integration into the film, noting its romantic and contemporary vibe.
Sháshà r íshà
In the Film
“Sháshà r íshà” is a standout track that accompanies scenes of the fire community in Firetown. The piece features rhythmic vocals in the fictional Firish language, created by linguist David Peterson. Its propulsive beat and bamboo flute melodies emphasize the cultural pride and resilience of Ember’s family. The track plays during a montage of Ember working in her father’s shop, highlighting her fiery temperament and dedication. The vocals, layered with traditional percussion, create a sense of communal energy, grounding the scene in Firetown’s vibrant atmosphere.
Trivia
The use of Firish in “Sháshà r íshà” adds authenticity to the fire people’s culture, with Peterson’s conlang drawing from various linguistic influences. Fans on YouTube debated the track’s cultural inspirations, with some identifying Indian, Chinese, or Middle Eastern elements, reflecting Newman’s goal of a universally resonant sound. The track’s title, derived from Firish, roughly translates to “spark of life,” symbolizing Ember’s inner fire.
Vivisteria
In the Film
“Vivisteria” underscores one of Elemental’s most visually stunning sequences, where Wade takes Ember to see the Vivisteria flowers at Garden Central Station. The track’s ethereal vocal chants and soaring strings create a magical, almost otherworldly ambiance. As Wade pushes Ember through the flooded station in an air bubble, the music swells, mirroring their growing emotional connection. The delicate interplay of flutes and harp enhances the scene’s romantic and serene mood, making it a highlight of the film.
Trivia
Named after the fictional Vivisteria flower, which thrives in any environment, this track symbolizes Ember and Wade’s ability to connect despite their differences. Newman’s use of vocal chants was inspired by global choral traditions, adding a spiritual dimension to the scene. The track’s lush orchestration earned praise from critics, with Qualbert noting its “beautiful and full of warmth” quality.
Across the Ocean
In the Film
“Across the Ocean” plays during a flashback depicting Bernie and Cinder’s journey from Fireland to Element City. The track’s haunting vocals and gentle sitar melodies evoke a sense of longing and sacrifice. As the scene shows the couple facing discrimination and building a new life, the music’s melancholic tone underscores their resilience. The gradual introduction of hopeful strings toward the end signifies their determination to create a better future for Ember.
Trivia
Newman drew inspiration from Indian classical music for this track, using the sitar to reflect Fireland’s cultural heritage. The vocals, performed by an ensemble, add a universal quality, representing the immigrant experience. The track’s title nods to the literal and metaphorical oceans crossed by Bernie and Cinder, a theme central to the film’s narrative.
Make Connection
In the Film
“Make Connection” accompanies a pivotal moment when Ember and Wade realize they can touch without harming each other. The track’s warm brass and piano motifs create an intimate, hopeful atmosphere. As they share a dance, the music builds, reflecting their deepening bond. The subtle use of mandolins adds a touch of playfulness, aligning with the scene’s joyful discovery.
Trivia
This track’s jazz-inflected brass sections pay homage to the water people’s laid-back culture, contrasting with the fire people’s percussive themes. Newman’s choice of piano as the lead instrument symbolizes the fluidity of Wade’s emotions, creating a musical dialogue with Ember’s fiery motifs.
Bà Ksô (The Big Bow)
In the Film
“Bà Ksô (The Big Bow)” is heard during a heartfelt scene where Ember confronts her father about her dreams. The track’s emotional vocal elements and soft percussion underscore the cultural significance of the “big bow,” a Fireland tradition of respect. As Ember expresses her true feelings, the music’s tender strings amplify the scene’s emotional weight, culminating in a cathartic resolution.
Trivia
The title “Bà Ksô” translates to “big bow” in Firish, reflecting the fire people’s customs. Newman incorporated rhythmic vocals to evoke a sense of ritual, drawing from Middle Eastern musical traditions. The track’s emotional resonance has been praised by fans on Reddit for its role in the film’s climax.
Stop Wade!
In the Film
“Stop Wade!” plays during a tense moment when Ember tries to prevent Wade from reporting her father’s shop. The track’s fast-paced percussion and urgent strings create a sense of urgency, mirroring Ember’s desperation. The music’s dynamic shifts reflect the chase through Element City, with electronic elements adding a modern edge to the action.
Trivia
Newman’s use of the EWI in this track adds a futuristic quality, aligning with Element City’s advanced infrastructure. The track’s rapid tempo and layered instrumentation showcase Newman’s ability to match the film’s quick mood shifts, a hallmark of his animation scoring.
Hot Air Balloon
In the Film
“Hot Air Balloon” accompanies a whimsical scene where Ember and Wade ride a hot air balloon over Element City. The track’s light, airy melodies, driven by flutes and chimes, evoke a sense of wonder and freedom. The music’s playful tone enhances the scene’s romantic and adventurous spirit, highlighting the couple’s growing connection.
Trivia
This track’s use of chimes reflects the air elementals’ presence in the scene, creating a sonic link to Element City’s diverse inhabitants. Fans have noted the track’s uplifting quality, comparing it to Newman’s work on Finding Nemo for its evocative simplicity.
Bubble Date
In the Film
“Bubble Date” underscores a charming sequence where Ember and Wade share a date in a bubble-like environment. The track’s soft piano and string arrangement create a dreamy, intimate mood. As the couple navigates their differences, the music’s gentle ebb and flow mirror their emotional journey, culminating in a tender moment of connection.
Trivia
The track’s minimalist approach contrasts with the score’s more robust tracks, emphasizing the quiet beauty of Ember and Wade’s relationship. Newman’s use of piano was inspired by jazz traditions, reflecting Wade’s fluid personality.
Cultural Resonance and Legacy
Newman’s score for Elemental is a testament to the power of music to bridge cultural divides. By blending instruments and styles from around the world, the soundtrack creates a universal language that resonates with audiences. The inclusion of “Steal the Show” adds a modern pop sensibility, ensuring the film appeals to younger viewers while maintaining Pixar’s signature emotional depth. Critics, such as those on Rotten Tomatoes, have praised the score for its “amazing” contribution to the film’s world-building, even if the narrative itself received mixed reviews.
The soundtrack’s release by Walt Disney Records on June 16, 2023, coincided with the film’s theatrical debut, allowing fans to immerse themselves in Newman’s work. Posts on X highlighted the score’s impact, with users like @cinefan2000 sharing links to the full soundtrack, reflecting its popularity. As Elemental continues to find its audience on Disney+, the music remains a standout feature, inviting listeners to explore the vibrant world of Element City.
Master the art of film/video game music composition with everything you need to know about creating impactful scores. Complete Collection Study Pack (Enter 25FMT at the checkout for instant 25% off)
