Elemental follows Ember Lumen, a fiery young woman navigating cultural expectations and an unlikely bond with Wade Ripple, a water element.
The film explores themes of self-discovery, intergenerational trauma, and bridging societal divides through elemental allegories.
This collection highlights 25 quotes that capture the story’s emotional core and its celebration of embracing differences.
Embrace the light when it burns, because it won’t always last forever
Ember Lumen
Ember defines the Fireish word “Deshlock,” symbolizing the film’s theme of cherishing fleeting moments and connections.
The shop was never the dream. You were the dream
Bernie Lumen
Bernie’s heartfelt revelation to Ember redefines their relationship, prioritizing her happiness over tradition.
You don’t have forever to say what you need to say
Wade Ripple
Wade’s urgency during his confession underscores the film’s message about vulnerability and seizing opportunities.
I’m a bad daughter
Ember Lumen
Ember’s breakdown reveals her internalized guilt, mirroring immigrant children’s struggles with parental expectations.
Sorry, Buddy, elements don’t mix
Ember Lumen
Early rejection of Wade encapsulates Element City’s prejudicial norms and Ember’s initial conformity.
I think it’s just me trying to tell me something I’m not ready to hear
Wade Ripple
Wade’s self-awareness about emotions contrasts with Ember’s repression, highlighting growth through vulnerability.
Getting to do what you want is a luxury and not for people like me!
Ember Lumen
Ember’s outburst exposes the class and cultural barriers shaping her self-denial3.
You’re just afraid
Wade Ripple
Wade challenges Ember’s defensive facade, catalyzing her journey toward authenticity.
I cannot throw that all away, just for YOU!
Ember Lumen
Climactic rejection blends cultural duty with personal longing, showcasing Ember’s internal conflict.
Why do they even have these?
Wade Ripple
Post-fence-phasing quip highlights the absurdity of societal divisions, reinforcing coexistence themes.
Take a breath and make a connection
Bernie Lumen
Bernie’s advice to Ember reflects generational wisdom about emotional regulation and empathy.
We are 4*Townies, remember? Ride or die!
Ember Lumen
Ember’s loyalty to friends contrasts with her family’s isolationist values.
You’re smelling love on me?
Ember Lumen
Humorous yet pivotal moment acknowledging her growing affection for Wade.
I’m trying to fill my father’s shoes but I was never once asked what I wanted
Ember Lumen
Raw admission of identity crisis, central to her character arc.
Look at me. I have an original Ember
Brooke
Brooke’s comment satirizes cultural commodification while validating Ember’s uniqueness.
Water wanted to water us down. Water no longer welcome in shop
Bernie Lumen
Bernie’s mistrust reflects generational trauma from systemic discrimination.
I’m FIRE, Wade! I can’t be anything more than that
Ember Lumen
Self-imposed limitation rooted in cultural identity, later subverted through growth.
There are a million reasons why this can’t work. But there’s also one yes
Wade Ripple
Wade’s hopeful counterargument embodies the film’s thesis on overcoming differences.
You proved I can trust you
Bernie Lumen
Bernie’s acceptance marks his growth and Ember’s earned autonomy.
I loved him, Dad
Ember Lumen
Ember’s vulnerable admission bridges cultural and elemental divides, affirming personal choice.
Living the dream
Fern
Fern’s deadpan humor contrasts with Element City’s tensions, offering levity4.
Save it for the wedding!
Cinder
Cinder’s spray-bottle chastisement humorously critiques public displays of affection.
An act of God? Or an act of Clod?
Clod
Clod’s wordplay introduces deus-ex-machina assistance while mocking bureaucratic systems.
Toot-toot
Fern
Fern’s deadpan loyalty to Wade subverts stoic archetypes, emphasizing quiet solidarity.
Drip. Drip. Drip. Who’s the baby boy?
Brooke
Brooke’s teasing of Wade adds levity while normalizing cross-element relationships.
More time for hanky panky
Cinder
Cinder’s cheeky remark contrasts with earlier rigidity, showing generational growth.
