Pete Docter Blames Disney+ for Elemental Struggles

Elemental Struggles

Pete Docter Blames Disney+ for Elemental Struggles

Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter has pointed out that the initial challenges Elemental faced at the box office can be attributed to Disney+ and the broader streaming strategy employed by the company. During a recent interview with The New York Times, Docter discussed how the focus on bolstering Disney+ subscriptions has noticeably impacted the performance of some recent Pixar films.

Titles such as Luca, Turning Red, and Soul all opted for a direct release on the streaming platform instead of enjoying a traditional cinematic premiere. This approach prevented these movies from realizing their full potential in terms of box office revenue. For films like Elemental and Encanto, it remains uncertain just how much they could have earned if given more extensive exposure in theaters.

Related: Pixar’s Elemental Becomes Most Viewed Disney+ Movie Premiere of 2023

Elemental Struggles

Docter told the Times, “There has been an overall shift in viewing habits as a result of the pandemic, but it’s also specific to Disney+. We’ve told people, ‘Hey, all of this is going to be available to you on Disney+!'”


In 2023, Elemental claimed the title of the most-viewed movie premiere on Disney+, securing a position within the all-time Top 10 Disney+ premieres. During its initial five days on the platform, Elemental garnered a remarkable 26.4 million views. The film’s narrative, which revolves around two individuals from disparate backgrounds finding common ground, evidently struck a chord with the audience.

Related: Opening Date Announced for Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort

Elemental Struggles

Director Peter Sohn sat down with Variety back in June to discuss what made Elemental special. Sohn added, “It is a very sincere film. I never thought I would be connected to something so personal. It’s about thanking our parents. I got lost in making this and every time I did, I’d go back to the north star of appreciation for them, and it wasn’t easy making that sacrifice. It’s also about bridging that gap between someone from a different culture, and that empathy.”

Our team at Chip & Company thoroughly enjoyed “Elemental” and found it to be an exceptional cinematic experience. The film’s captivating storytelling and engaging characters left a lasting impression. We’re eager to hear from you, our audience about your thoughts on “Elemental”. Share your opinions in a comment and check back for more updates to Pixar and Disney Animation films all fall.

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

D2T-1

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Get started below for your FREE No Obligation Quote.

Book With our friends at Destinations to Travel

Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY
MM slash DD slash YYYY
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!

YouTube player

Written by:

458 Posts

Podcasting on Chip and Company Podcast Network. Northeast USA Entertainment and Events media correspondent. Covering Broadway, conventions, film, and television.
View All Posts
Follow Me :