How Pixar's SOUL Balances the Existential and Lighthearted

Summary

In this video essay, the creator analyzes Pixar's film *Soul*, praising its thought-provoking exploration of life's meaning. The story follows Joe Gardner, a jazz musician, who teams up with an unborn soul named 22 after a life-altering event. Together, they explore philosophical themes like determinism and existentialism, while highlighting the importance of appreciating life's small moments. The essay discusses how *Soul* balances lightheartedness and deep existential questions, ultimately encouraging viewers to reevaluate their perspective on life and find joy in the present.

Takeaways

• 🎬 Pixar's 'Soul' is a thought-provoking film, potentially rivaling the cinematic brilliance of 'Ratatouille'.
• 🌆 The setting of New York City is brought to life with Pixar’s signature immersive world-building, comparable to 'Ratatouille's Paris.
• 🎷 The story revolves around Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher with dreams of becoming a jazz musician.
• 💥 Joe's life takes a turn when he falls into a manhole and his soul enters the Great Beyond, sparking a journey to reclaim his life.
• 💭 'Soul' delves into philosophical themes like determinism and existentialism, exploring free will and the meaning of life.
• 🌀 The movie contrasts the determinism of souls being assigned personalities with existentialist ideas of free will and personal choice.
• 🎉 Pixar excels at introducing heavy topics like life’s purpose in a gentle, accessible way for younger audiences.
• 👶 The character 22, a cynical unborn soul, discovers the beauty of life through small, everyday moments, adding depth to the story.
• 🎨 The film masterfully balances lighthearted humor and deeper existential themes, offering profound messages for both children and adults.
• 🌟 The ultimate message of 'Soul' is that life’s spark is not about finding a singular purpose but appreciating the little moments of joy and wonder all around us.

Q & A

What is the main setting of Pixar's movie 'Soul'?

The main setting of 'Soul' is in the heart of New York City.

Who is the protagonist of 'Soul' and what is his dream?

The protagonist of 'Soul' is Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher whose lifelong dream is to become a jazz musician.

What significant event happens to Joe Gardner that changes the course of the story?

Joe Gardner falls into a manhole and his soul is taken to the 'Great Beyond', a mysterious and abstract place.

Where does Joe's soul go after the 'Great Beyond' and what does he try to do there?

After the 'Great Beyond', Joe's soul ends up in the 'Great Before', where unborn souls are prepped for life on Earth. He teams up with a cynical unborn soul named 22 to reclaim his life on Earth.

How does Pixar's 'Soul' differ in its thematic approach compared to other Pixar movies?

'Soul' differs by exploring heavy philosophical themes such as the essence of life, determinism, and existentialism, while maintaining a balance with lighthearted storytelling.

What two primary philosophical schools of thought does 'Soul' touch on?

'Soul' touches on determinism, which is the doctrine that all events are ultimately determined by external causes, and existentialism, which emphasizes the existence of the individual as a free agent determining their own development.

How does the character 22's perspective on life differ from Joe's in 'Soul'?

22 has a more open-minded and indiscriminate sense of wonderment about life, savoring every moment, while Joe is focused on achieving his dream and overcoming obstacles.

What lesson does Joe learn from his journey with 22 in 'Soul'?

Joe learns that the elusive spark he was chasing in life has always been right in front of him, and that it's important to simply live and appreciate the moments all around us.

How does 'Soul' balance lighthearted elements with deeper philosophical themes?

'Soul' balances lighthearted elements with deeper themes through its minimalistic animation, engaging storytelling, and the juxtaposition of Joe's and 22's perspectives on life.

What message does 'Soul' convey about finding one's purpose and passion in life?

'Soul' conveys that true fulfillment comes not from chasing a grand purpose or passion, but from appreciating and living in the moment, finding joy in the little things in life.