Montez Middle School is a pivotal location in the 2025Disney•Pixar animated feature film Elio. It is the suburban school where 11-year-old Elio Solis begins his journey, serving as the grounded Earth setting before he is whisked away into the Communiverse as the mistaken intergalactic ambassador of planet Earth.
Background[]
Montez Middle School is introduced as an everyday suburban middle school in the United States, anchoring the opening of Elio in a familiar, relatable environment. The scene is set at the end of the school year, likely in late spring or early summer, as indicated by the prominent sign out front that reads "MONTEZ MIDDLE SCHOOL" with a message board below stating, "HAVE A GREAT SUMMER! ...AND READ!" This marks a transitional moment for Elio, possibly his last day of normalcy before his alien abduction. The school's street number, "1200," is visible on the sign's base, though its full location remains undisclosed, enhancing its universal suburban feel.
As the starting point of Elio's story, Montez Middle School contrasts sharply with the cosmic adventures to come, emphasizing his ordinary life before the extraordinary begins.
Appearance[]
Montez Middle School features a classic yet slightly modern architectural style typical of U.S. suburban schools. Its exterior is characterized by a light-colored facade and large windows that suggest a bright, functional interior. The focal point is a large sign mounted on a brick and concrete structure, proudly displaying "MONTEZ MIDDLE SCHOOL" and the summer message in bold, cheerful lettering. A yellow school bus, partially visible, bears the school's name on its side, adding to the quintessential school atmosphere. The surrounding area is accented with greenery—bushes and trees—bathed in a hazy, soft morning light, a Pixar signature that lends a nostalgic, dreamy quality to the scene.
The "...AND READ!" addition to the sign may subtly nod to Elio's curiosity, a trait that drives his wish to meet aliens.
The street number "1200" is a reference to Pixar's address in Emeryville, California.
In early concept art, the school bus was depicted in blue rather than yellow, suggesting a design shift to align with traditional American school imagery.
It is unknown if Bryce and Caleb attend at the same school that Elio attends.
