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Review: Soul

One might wonder why the filmmakers at Pixar decided that Soul was a necessary entry into the Pixar cannon after they explored such existential topics in “for kids but not really” films like Coco and Inside Out. Is this the direction Pixar films are destined to take? Philosophical, visually stunning animated films that are more geared towards adults than children? 


Wherever the animation studio is headed, you have to concede that the brilliant minds behind their latest film leaves us a lot to think about. It’s rare that a film, animated or not, can say the same. The plot of Soul is a lot to unpack and is better experienced rather than explained, but you have to appreciate the big swings.

Tackling topics like destiny, purpose, the afterlife, and so much more, Soul follows Joe, a failed jazz musician turned middle-school band teacher who is finally getting his big break only to fall into a manhole. From that point on we’re invited into a world in the afterlife that is broadly explained for us, but mostly visually enjoyed (probably better that way). But more than understanding the ins and outs of the afterlife, we’re taken on a journey to explore what it is about life that’s truly worth living.

The film doesn’t follow many of the common tropes you’d encounter in a lesser film about life after death - sugarcoated stories where the reason for living boils down to being loved by others or finding your passion. It takes us beyond that and we’re given a few characters to help us come to those conclusions (one of which is a talking cat which serves to keep the kids engaged).

With a swoon-worthy score, phenomenal voice acting performances from Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey, and a boundary-pushing animation style in line with what we’ve come to expect from Pixar, the film strikes the right balance of deep themes, gorgeous landscapes, and a good time. Whether the studio is going for a more mature audience or not, this film has a little something for everyone.

Hannah Lorence