Pixar is known for creating heart-warming animated stories that feed the soul, and the appropriately named film Soul delivers just this and continues Pixar’s legacy with its beautiful animation, sweet story, and lovable characters. Read on to find out more about the film, as well as where to watch.
The movie is a beautiful take on answers to some of life’s biggest questions. It dives into conflicts of ion and stability, purpose and fear, and life and death. Pixar delivers, yet again, a story that leaves you both fulfilled and reflective.
Pete Docter, co-writer and director of the film, says that the “movie's aim is really to say that we're already enough. We all can walk out of the door and enjoy life without needing to accomplish or prove anything. And that's really freeing."
All-Star Cast and a Meaningful Message
This film is jam-packed with all-star voice talent, including Jamie Foxx as Joe. Tina Fey lends her voice to energetic 22. Daveed Diggs voices Paul, and Graham Norton voices Moonwind.
Soul follows the story of Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher who longs to spend his days playing jazz professionally. The day he finally gets the opportunity to chase this dream, he is struck with bad luck and falls down a manhole. His soul then travels to the afterlife, known as the “Great Beyond”.
Joe, frightened by the “Great Beyond” and unwilling to die and miss his big break, tries to run away, causing him to end up in a place called the “Great Before.” Here, he meets a new, unborn soul named 22. 22 is resistant to head to Earth and tells Joe she will give him her “earth ” so he can go instead of her. In order for this arrangement to occur, Joe must help 22 find her “spark” and so begins an adventure filled with purpose, realization, and hope.
Award-Winning Sensation
The magic of Soul has not gone unnoticed by award committees. Following its 2020 release, Soul was nominated for an Oscar. The film won Academy Awards for best music and best animated film. It also won Golden Globes for best animated feature film and best original score. While the movie challenges the notions of success and failure, it is clear that Soul can be classified as a success by all metrics.
Where to Watch Soul
Grab some popcorn, and perhaps some tissues, and be sure to check this one out. When you’re ready to have your heart and soul captured by this story, it is available to stream on Disney+.
