Pixar Animation Studios has long been revered for blending technical mastery with heartwarming, thought-provoking storytelling. With films like Up, Inside Out, and Coco, the studio has consistently delivered powerful narratives that explore universal themes in accessible and emotionally resonant ways.
In Soul (2020), directed by Pete Docter and co-directed by Kemp Powers, Pixar delves even deeper into philosophical terrain, marrying the joyous improvisation of jazz music with a metaphysical exploration of life’s purpose. The result is a visually stunning, musically rich, and intellectually ambitious film that stands out even among Pixar’s remarkable oeuvre.
Pixar has a reputation for crafting animated films that resonate deeply with both children and adults, seamlessly blending humor, emotion, and philosophical depth. With Soul, the studio ventures into even more introspective territory, combining the improvisational joy of jazz with an exploration of life’s biggest questions—Why are we here?
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The Story at a Glance
Soul tells the story of Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx), a middle-school band teacher in New York City with dreams of becoming a professional jazz musician. Joe finally gets his big break when he’s offered the chance to perform with the legendary jazz saxophonist Dorothea Williams (Angela Bassett).
But just as his dream seems within reach, an accident causes his soul to be separated from his body, sending him to “The Great Before,” a liminal space where souls are prepared for life on Earth. In his desperate attempt to return to his body, Joe teams up with 22 (voiced by Tina Fey), a cynical soul who has never found a reason to live.
Visual Brilliance and Inventive Worldbuilding
Pixar has always been known for its cutting-edge animation, and Soul is no exception. The film employs two distinct visual styles: the richly detailed, lifelike representation of New York City and the abstract, minimalist design of The Great Before.
The city sequences pulse with energy, capturing the bustle, diversity, and vibrancy of urban life. In contrast, The Great Before is rendered with soft pastels, fluid forms, and whimsical designs that reflect the film’s metaphysical themes. The counselors of The Great Before, known as the “Jerrys,” are especially notable for their design.
They appear as living line-drawings, simultaneously two-dimensional and three-dimensional, a bold artistic choice that communicates their otherworldly nature. Meanwhile, Terry, the soul counter obsessed with maintaining cosmic order (voiced by Rachel House), adds a dash of comedic tension.
Music: The Heart and Soul of the Film
As a film centered around jazz, Soul takes its musical elements seriously. The jazz compositions, performed by renowned musician Jon Batiste, are authentic, dynamic, and filled with emotional depth. Each performance sequence is meticulously animated to reflect the actual movements of professional musicians.
The passion Joe feels for music is not only heard but seen and felt through these carefully crafted scenes. Complementing Batiste’s jazz work is the ethereal, ambient score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross (of Nine Inch Nails fame).
Their music underscores the otherworldly moments in The Great Before, offering a sonic contrast that perfectly supports the film’s dual narrative structure. This dual-composer approach is not only ambitious but also thematically resonant, emphasizing the contrast between life on Earth and the metaphysical realms.
Voice Cast: Humor and Heart
Jamie Foxx brings warmth, drive, and humanity to Joe Gardner. His voice acting captures the passion of a man who has spent his life chasing a dream, making Joe one of Pixar’s most relatable protagonists. Tina Fey’s performance as 22 adds humor, skepticism, and eventually vulnerability. Together, their dynamic creates a compelling emotional arc that drives the story forward.
Supporting performances also shine. Angela Bassett lends gravitas to Dorothea Williams, while Phylicia Rashad voices Joe’s practical yet loving mother. Richard Ayoade, Alice Braga, and Wes Studi all contribute to the quirky collection of Jerrys, bringing an eclectic mix of accents and personalities that enrich the film’s whimsical universe.
Themes: What Makes Life Worth Living?
More than just a film about music, Soul is a meditation on existence. What is a person’s true purpose? Is it tied to a specific talent or career? Or is it something more intangible? The film challenges the notion of a singular “spark” or destiny, suggesting instead that life’s meaning can be found in everyday moments—a slice of pizza, a shared laugh, the feeling of wind rustling through trees.
Joe’s journey is a powerful allegory for our collective obsession with achievement. Initially convinced that his purpose lies solely in being a professional musician, Joe comes to understand that life isn’t defined by a single goal but by the accumulation of experiences, relationships, and emotions.
Reception and Cultural Impact
Upon release, Soul received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score, further cementing Pixar’s reputation as a studio that pushes both artistic and narrative boundaries.
It also broke ground as Pixar’s first film with a Black lead character, prompting important conversations about representation in animation. The film’s release during the COVID-19 pandemic, via Disney+, meant that it reached a wide audience at a time when many were grappling with existential questions.
Its message of appreciating the small, beautiful moments of life resonated deeply, making Soul more than just a movie—it became a cultural balm during a period of global uncertainty.
Criticism and Controversy
Despite its accolades, Soul did not escape criticism. Some viewers felt that Joe’s journey was overshadowed by 22’s character arc, raising questions about whose story was truly being told. Others took issue with the film’s use of the “magical negro” trope, a recurring criticism of films.
In which Black characters are used primarily to advance the growth of white protagonists. Additionally, the film’s philosophical depth, while praised by many, proved too abstract for some younger viewers. Pixar has often walked the line between children’s entertainment.
Adult introspection, and Soul arguably tilts more heavily toward the latter. This may limit its appeal for very young audiences but also positions it as a film with lasting value for viewers of all ages.
Frequently Asked Question
Is Soul appropriate for children?
While Soul is rated PG and contains no inappropriate content, its themes are more complex and philosophical than typical animated films. It is suitable for children, but younger viewers may not grasp the deeper messages.
Who composed the music for Soul?
The film features two distinct musical components: jazz music by Jon Batiste and a metaphysical score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. Their combined efforts create a rich and contrasting auditory experience.
What is the main message of Soul?
The film suggests that life’s true meaning isn’t found in professional success or specific achievements, but in appreciating everyday experiences and human connections.
Why was Soul considered groundbreaking?
Soul was Pixar’s first feature film to feature a Black protagonist, contributing to diversity in mainstream animation. It also tackled complex philosophical topics rarely addressed in family films.
Where can I watch Soul?
Soul is available for streaming on Disney+, where it premiered in December 2020.
Who voices the main characters in Soul?
Jamie Foxx voices Joe Gardner, Tina Fey voices 22, and supporting cast includes Angela Bassett, Phylicia Rashad, and Rachel House.
Was Soul a box office success?
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Soul had a limited theatrical release and premiered primarily on Disney+. Its success was measured in critical acclaim, award wins, and streaming popularity rather than traditional box office numbers.
Conclusion
Soul is a cinematic triumph that reaffirms Pixar’s status as a pioneer in animated storytelling. With its breathtaking visuals, rich musical tapestry, and philosophical depth, the film offers a unique blend of entertainment and enlightenment. It dares to ask the big questions and does so with grace, humor, and emotional honesty. In an era where blockbuster films often prioritize spectacle over substance, Soul stands as a reminder that animation can be a profound medium for exploring the human condition. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a philosophy enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a bit of inspiration, Soul has something meaningful to offer.