100+ Movies like Elemental
City of Ember
Both "Elemental" and "City of Ember" feature societies of people living in isolated, enclosed environments - Element City and the underground City of Ember, respectively. The main characters in each movie are young individuals who discover the truth about their societies and the existence of a larger outside world. They face opposition from authority figures who wish to maintain the status quo, but ultimately escape their confined environments with the help of newfound friends or love interests. The movies parallel each other in depicting the journey of the protagonists from ignorance to enlightenment about the world beyond their limited communities, and their struggles against those who seek to suppress that knowledge. Both films explore themes of oppression, xenophobia, and the desire for freedom and exploration.
Fireman Sam: The Great Fire of Pontypandy
Both "Elemental" and "Fireman Sam: The Great Fire of Pontypandy" revolve around fire-related incidents that threaten the community. In "Elemental", a broken water pipe leads to flooding and potential closure of the Fireplace store, while in "Fireman Sam", a forest fire caused by careless campers endangers the town of Pontypandy. The protagonists, Ember and Sam, face challenges in resolving these crises while navigating personal relationships and responsibilities. Both films explore themes of overcoming prejudices, with Ember facing xenophobia against fire elements, and Sam considering a job promotion away from Pontypandy. Ultimately, the main characters choose to remain in their communities, realizing their importance and finding love interests (Wade for Ember, and implied for Sam). The climactic events involve containing the flooding/fire through teamwork and ingenuity, leading to a celebratory resolution.
My Father's Dragon
Both "Elemental" and "My Father's Dragon" follow a similar narrative arc of a young protagonist embarking on an adventure and overcoming prejudices to achieve their goals. In "Elemental", Ember faces xenophobia from other elements but forms an unlikely bond with Wade, a water element, as they work together to save her family's store. Similarly, in "My Father's Dragon", Elmer befriends the dragon Boris and helps him regain his courage to save Wild Island, despite initial prejudices against him. The movies also explore themes of family, tradition, and finding one's path in life. Ember struggles with taking over her family's store and traditions, while Elmer seeks to open a new store with his mother after losing their previous one. Both protagonists ultimately choose their own paths, with Ember pursuing a glassmaking internship and Elmer embracing city life. Additionally, both films feature fantastical worlds with anthropomorphic characters and elements of magic or mythology. "Elemental" depicts a world of classical elements coexisting in Element City, while "My Father's Dragon" takes place on the mythical Wild Island inhabited by talking animals and a dragon.
The Emoji Movie
Both "Elemental" and "The Emoji Movie" follow the story of an outcast protagonist who struggles to fit in due to their unique nature. Gene the emoji and Ember the fire element face prejudice and rejection from their respective communities for being different. They embark on a journey of self-discovery, finding allies in Hi-5 and Wade who help them embrace their true selves. The protagonists develop romantic feelings for their companions, Jailbreak and Wade, who initially plan to change them but eventually accept them as they are. The central conflict arises from an authority figure, Smiler and Gale, who seeks to eliminate the protagonists for not conforming. Ultimately, the protagonists find acceptance and are celebrated for their individuality, while the antagonists face consequences for their actions. Both films explore themes of identity, prejudice, and finding one's place in the world.
Scorched
Both "Elemental" and "Scorched" explore themes of environmental crisis and the consequences of human actions on natural resources. In "Elemental", the elemental beings face a water crisis caused by a leak in the city's infrastructure, paralleling the water shortage in Sydney due to mismanagement in "Scorched". The protagonists in both films, Ember and Susan Shapiro, uncover the truth behind the crises and face opposition from those in power trying to cover up their misdeeds. The films also depict the impact of the crises on ordinary citizens and the struggles they face. Ultimately, the truth is revealed, leading to accountability and change, though at a significant cost. Both movies use the environmental disasters as a backdrop to explore themes of corruption, sacrifice, and the importance of preserving natural resources.
Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us
Both "Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us" and "Elemental" explore themes of prejudice, cultural differences, and the struggle for coexistence between different groups. In "Elemental", the fire elements Bernie and Cinder face xenophobia in Element City, while in "Pokémon the Movie", the city of Fula City was founded on a lie about the mysterious Pokémon Zeraora to protect it from humans. The central conflicts revolve around overcoming these prejudices and finding a way for the different groups to live together harmoniously. The protagonists, Ember and Wade in "Elemental" and Ash and his friends in "Pokémon the Movie", play a pivotal role in bridging the divide between the opposing groups through their actions and relationships. Ember's relationship with the water element Wade challenges her family's prejudices, while Ash and his friends work to protect Zeraora and help the city coexist with it. Both movies feature a climactic event that threatens the entire community - a flood in "Elemental" and a forest fire in "Pokémon the Movie" - which forces the different groups to work together to overcome the crisis. This ultimately leads to a resolution where the prejudices are overcome, and the groups find a way to coexist peacefully.
Beasts of the Southern Wild
Both "Elemental" and "Beasts of the Southern Wild" follow the journey of a young protagonist facing adversity and societal prejudices in their unique, isolated communities. The protagonists, Ember and Hushpuppy, have strained relationships with their fathers, Bernie and Wink, who are determined to preserve their traditional ways of life. As environmental threats loom, the communities face potential displacement, forcing the protagonists to confront their identities and make difficult choices. The films explore themes of family, tradition, and the resilience of marginalized communities in the face of change and natural disasters. Both stories culminate in the protagonists embracing their true selves and finding their paths forward, even as they bid farewell to their fathers and their old ways of life.
Only the Brave
Both "Elemental" and "Only the Brave" follow the journey of an unlikely protagonist who faces adversity and prejudice in pursuing their passion. In "Elemental", Ember, a fire element, faces xenophobia in Element City but perseveres to follow her dreams, while in "Only the Brave", Brendan overcomes his troubled past to become a hotshot firefighter. Both protagonists form a forbidden romantic connection - Ember with Wade, a water element, and Brendan with his ex-girlfriend Natalie. The stories explore themes of overcoming societal barriers, finding one's purpose, and the sacrifices made in pursuing a dangerous profession. Both films culminate in a climactic disaster where the protagonists' loved ones are in peril, testing their resolve and commitment to their chosen paths.
Ablaze
Both "Elemental" and "Ablaze" center around conflicts involving fire and its destructive power. In "Elemental", the fire element characters Bernie and Ember face prejudice and struggle to integrate into Element City, while in "Ablaze", an oil refinery explosion causes a devastating fire that threatens a suburban town. The protagonists in each film - Ember and firefighter Jack - must navigate personal relationships amidst the chaos of the fires. Ember falls in love with Wade, a water element, defying her family's traditions, while Jack reunites with his ex-girlfriend Jennifer during the crisis. Both films depict the heroes overcoming obstacles and prejudices to find love and acceptance. The fires serve as catalysts for personal growth and societal change, with the protagonists emerging from the flames transformed.
Frozen II
Both "Elemental" and "Frozen II" explore themes of overcoming prejudice and bridging divides between different groups or elements. The protagonists, Ember and Elsa, possess unique elemental powers (fire and ice) that set them apart from others. They face discrimination and misunderstanding from those who fear their abilities. The stories involve a conflict rooted in the past, where a dam was built that disrupted the natural order and harmony between the elements/groups. This leads to the awakening of elemental spirits that the protagonists must confront and understand. Ember and Elsa embark on journeys of self-discovery, learning about their heritage and the truth behind the past conflicts. They ultimately become bridges between the divided groups, using their powers to restore balance and peace. The movies also feature romantic subplots where the protagonists fall for individuals from the opposing side (Wade and Kristoff), further symbolizing the breaking down of barriers. Both films culminate in the destruction of the dam, representing the removal of the physical and metaphorical divide between the elements/groups.
Inspector Gadget 2
Both "Inspector Gadget 2" and "Elemental" involve a central character who faces prejudice and obstacles due to their unique nature - Ember as a fire element in Elemental, and Inspector Gadget as a cyborg in Inspector Gadget 2. They must overcome societal biases and prove their worth, with the help of an unlikely ally (Wade and G2 respectively). The protagonists also struggle with their identity and purpose, questioning whether to follow their family's path or forge their own. Both films feature a villainous force (Dr. Claw and the xenophobic elements) that the heroes must defeat, leading to a climactic confrontation. Ultimately, the central characters embrace their true selves, find love, and achieve their goals through perseverance and self-discovery.
To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You
Both "Elemental" and "To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You" follow a central romantic storyline between two characters from different backgrounds who face societal prejudices and personal insecurities that threaten their relationship. In "Elemental", Bernie and Cinder's fire element family faces xenophobia in Element City, while Ember and Wade's budding romance is complicated by Ember's fiery temper and her family's prejudice against water elements. Similarly in "To All the Boys", Lara Jean and Peter's relationship is strained by Lara Jean's insecurities about Peter's ex-girlfriend Gen and her own jealousy. Both movies explore themes of overcoming societal barriers, embracing one's identity, and finding self-acceptance through the lens of a young couple navigating their feelings amidst external pressures. The protagonists in each film must confront their own doubts and fears to ultimately embrace their love for their partner.
Godmothered
Both "Elemental" and "Godmothered" follow a central character who is an outsider in a new world, struggling to find their place and purpose. In "Elemental", Bernie and Cinder immigrate to Element City and face prejudice, while in "Godmothered", Eleanor arrives in the real world as a fairy godmother. The protagonists (Ember and Eleanor) initially follow the traditional path set for them but eventually break free to pursue their own desires, defying expectations. They form unlikely connections (Ember with Wade, Eleanor with the Walsh family) that challenge societal norms and prejudices. Both films explore themes of self-discovery, overcoming adversity, and redefining what it means to find true happiness and fulfillment beyond conventional formulas or traditions. The climax involves the protagonists making a pivotal choice that impacts their future, leading to a resolution where they embrace their newfound path and identity.
PAW Patrol: The Movie
Both "PAW Patrol: The Movie" and "Elemental" follow a central character who faces prejudice and obstacles due to their identity or background. In "Elemental", Bernie and Cinder face xenophobia as fire elements in Element City, while in "PAW Patrol", Chase experiences PTSD from his past in the city. The protagonists (Ember and Chase) initially struggle with their fears and insecurities, but ultimately overcome them through personal growth and the support of their loved ones. The plots revolve around a central conflict that threatens the protagonists' livelihoods - the potential closure of the Fireplace store in "Elemental", and Mayor Humdinger's schemes in "PAW Patrol". The protagonists team up with unlikely allies (Wade and Liberty) to resolve these conflicts, forming close bonds in the process. They also face challenges that test their abilities and courage, such as Ember sealing the dam leak and Chase rescuing Ryder. Both movies explore themes of acceptance, overcoming prejudice, and finding one's true path in life. The protagonists initially struggle with expectations placed upon them (running the family business), but ultimately choose to pursue their own dreams and passions. Romantic relationships also play a role, with Ember and Wade, and Chase and Liberty forming close connections.
Youth in Revolt
Both "Elemental" and "Youth in Revolt" explore themes of young love, societal prejudices, and the struggle to find one's identity. The protagonists, Ember and Nick, face opposition from their families and communities due to their unconventional romantic interests - Ember with Wade, a water element, and Nick with Sheeni, who comes from a different background. They must navigate societal barriers and their own insecurities to pursue these relationships. Both films feature rebellious alter-egos (François Dillinger for Nick) that allow the protagonists to break free from their inhibitions. The climax revolves around a major act of defiance (Nick impersonating Sheeni's friend, Ember saving the city from flooding) that ultimately brings the couples together. The endings see the protagonists leaving their hometowns to start new chapters, having overcome prejudices and found acceptance in their relationships.
I ♥ Huckabees
Both "Elemental" and "I ♥ Huckabees" explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and overcoming prejudices. The protagonists in each film (Ember/Albert and Wade/Tommy) face societal pressures and expectations that clash with their true desires and sense of self. They embark on journeys of self-exploration, guided by mentors with contrasting philosophies (Cinder/Bernie and Caterine/Jaffes), ultimately finding a balance between opposing worldviews. The films also parallel each other in their depictions of corporate greed and environmental concerns, with the protagonists fighting against the establishment (Huckabees store and City Hall). Ultimately, the characters learn to embrace their authentic selves and find fulfillment in unexpected relationships (Ember/Wade and Tommy/Dawn) that challenge societal norms.
BoBoiBoy: Elemental Heroes
Both "Elemental" and "BoBoiBoy: Elemental Heroes" revolve around elemental beings with special powers. The protagonists, Ember and BoBoiBoy, face a powerful antagonist, Retak'ka, who seeks to absorb their elemental abilities. They must learn to control and harness their powers to defeat the villain and save their worlds. The stories explore themes of self-discovery, embracing one's identity, and overcoming prejudices against different elemental beings. Both feature a diverse cast of elemental characters, with the protagonists forming bonds and relationships that transcend elemental boundaries. The climactic battles involve the protagonists combining their elemental powers to defeat the antagonist, ultimately leading to acceptance and unity among the elemental beings.
The Glass Castle
Both "Elemental" and "The Glass Castle" explore themes of family, overcoming prejudice, and pursuing one's dreams. The protagonists, Ember and Jeannette, come from unconventional families and face hardships due to their parents' choices. They struggle with societal discrimination and xenophobia, but ultimately find the courage to break free from expectations and forge their own paths. The movies follow their journeys of self-discovery, finding love, and reconciling with their families' pasts. Central to both stories is the idea of a metaphorical "glass castle" representing the characters' aspirations and the fragility of their circumstances. The movies parallel each other in depicting the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of embracing one's true identity.
PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie
Both "PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie" and "Elemental" involve a central character who gains special powers or abilities - Ember gains control over fire and Skye gains superpowers from a magical meteor crystal. They face challenges and adversaries who try to take away or exploit their powers (Wade's boss Gale initially wants to shut down Ember's family store, while Victoria Vance steals the meteor crystals). The protagonists must overcome prejudices and societal barriers (Ember faces xenophobia against fire elements, while Skye is initially the runt of her litter). They form an unlikely friendship or romance that transcends these divides (Ember and Wade's relationship, Skye and the PAW Patrol). Ultimately, the protagonists use their powers to save their community from a disastrous threat (Ember seals a dam leak, Skye destroys meteors heading for Adventure City). Both stories involve themes of embracing differences, overcoming adversity, and finding one's true purpose.
Tiger & Bunny: The Rising
Both "Elemental" and "Tiger & Bunny: The Rising" explore themes of prejudice, acceptance, and overcoming societal barriers. The main characters face discrimination and opposition due to their differences, whether it's the fire and water elements in "Elemental" or the heroes and villains in "Tiger & Bunny". The protagonists must navigate these challenges while pursuing their goals and aspirations. The movies also feature a central romantic relationship that defies societal norms and expectations. In "Elemental", Ember and Wade's love transcends the divide between fire and water elements, while in "Tiger & Bunny", the heroes and villains ultimately unite against a common threat. Both films culminate in a climactic battle where the protagonists overcome adversity and achieve a sense of unity and acceptance. Additionally, both movies explore themes of family, tradition, and finding one's true path in life. The protagonists must reconcile their personal desires with familial obligations and societal pressures before ultimately choosing their own path. The films also feature supporting characters who undergo personal growth and development alongside the main characters.