There are times during the first quarter when you may believe someone's spiked your drink with an hallucinogenic as Disney's innovative way of capturing our entrance and exit to the world is developed but, as you will find, this is a film to get you thinking and, more importantly, thinking about yourself - reflecting so to speak. Delivered with the usual Pixar excellence, if this doesn't make you realise that tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life then rewind, pause and start again, because the message is universally important to all - and that includes you!!!
1,619 Reviews
Filled with soul
TheLittleSongbird30 March 2021
Pixar is one of the finest animation studios to exist and one of the few studios today for anything to continually deliver. Sure they did become less consistent post-'Toy Story 3', but in the 90s and 2000s their work was of higher quality than Disney's generally and hit more than it missed. Pre-'Toy Story 3', the one slight disappointment was 'Cars', the others are very good to brilliant and even their lesser work is still watchable.
'Soul' is nothing short of amazing and proved to be one of the few highlights this year. Not just as an overall film, but everything about it is fantastically executed. It has a huge amount of soul and heart, true of Pixar at its very best, and also filled me with joy and hope (and goodness don't we all need it right now). In my view, 'Soul' is one of Pixar's best post-'Toy Story 3' films alongside 'Inside Out' and 'Coco'. And as far as the studio's overall filmography goes it's definitely in the top 10.
As cliched as this sounds, everything in 'Soul' works. The animation, as usual for Pixar, is stunning. Consisting of some of the most gorgeously vibrant colours for any animated film in recent memory and some very imaginative backgrounds. A major star is the music, one of the studio's finest scores, one that really celebrates the style and does so so affectionately, and this is coming from a studio that always delivered in this aspect. The music here is so catchy, full of heart-pumping energy and poignant emotion.
The voice acting is dynamite, meant in a good way. Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey are at the top of their game, voicing their characters with deep feeling and infectious enthusiasm. The characters are ones worth rooting for, feeling like real people and not stock caricatures. The script is playfully witty, beautifully affecting and also honest, there is nothing childish here and to me coherence actually wasn't an issue. Really admired the message of you can change and that it is never too late to do so, such a good message honestly delivered and it resonated with me.
When it comes to talking about the story, the one in 'Soul' is more thematically ambitious than most Pixar films. Which is amazing considering that Pixar have had a number of mature and ambitious themes and stories. 'Soul' executes this in a very bold and never dumbed down or convoluted manner. Can understand where people are coming from when they talk about it being more for older viewers than children, but from my experience as a young adult but a child at heart 'Soul' made me laugh and gave me the feels, as well as left me deep in thought. Something that Pixar was very good at in most of their films. Personally didn't find the ending rushed or too neat, and actually found it pretty poignant.
Brilliant film and more than deserving of its acclaim. Thank goodness it came along when it did. 10/10.
'Soul' is nothing short of amazing and proved to be one of the few highlights this year. Not just as an overall film, but everything about it is fantastically executed. It has a huge amount of soul and heart, true of Pixar at its very best, and also filled me with joy and hope (and goodness don't we all need it right now). In my view, 'Soul' is one of Pixar's best post-'Toy Story 3' films alongside 'Inside Out' and 'Coco'. And as far as the studio's overall filmography goes it's definitely in the top 10.
As cliched as this sounds, everything in 'Soul' works. The animation, as usual for Pixar, is stunning. Consisting of some of the most gorgeously vibrant colours for any animated film in recent memory and some very imaginative backgrounds. A major star is the music, one of the studio's finest scores, one that really celebrates the style and does so so affectionately, and this is coming from a studio that always delivered in this aspect. The music here is so catchy, full of heart-pumping energy and poignant emotion.
The voice acting is dynamite, meant in a good way. Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey are at the top of their game, voicing their characters with deep feeling and infectious enthusiasm. The characters are ones worth rooting for, feeling like real people and not stock caricatures. The script is playfully witty, beautifully affecting and also honest, there is nothing childish here and to me coherence actually wasn't an issue. Really admired the message of you can change and that it is never too late to do so, such a good message honestly delivered and it resonated with me.
When it comes to talking about the story, the one in 'Soul' is more thematically ambitious than most Pixar films. Which is amazing considering that Pixar have had a number of mature and ambitious themes and stories. 'Soul' executes this in a very bold and never dumbed down or convoluted manner. Can understand where people are coming from when they talk about it being more for older viewers than children, but from my experience as a young adult but a child at heart 'Soul' made me laugh and gave me the feels, as well as left me deep in thought. Something that Pixar was very good at in most of their films. Personally didn't find the ending rushed or too neat, and actually found it pretty poignant.
Brilliant film and more than deserving of its acclaim. Thank goodness it came along when it did. 10/10.
Soul might be Pixar's most grown up film yet.
SethaWhenTheWallsFell25 December 2020
While I found myself thoroughly engrossed while watching this movie a funny thing happened around the half way point. I realized I hadn't laughed once. Sure I had smiled a few times at the low key humor but never was a joke thrown in my face that seemed like it was just thrown in there to make sure the film didn't lose the kiddos. Admittedly Pixar doesn't usually go out of its way to ensure kids laughing every second but this film REALLY doesn't have that on it's mind.
This is a lovely story about a grown man discovering his true gifts in life and it left a big smile on my face. A very sweet and inventive film that will hopefully leave most of us adults with something to think about when the credits role.
This is a lovely story about a grown man discovering his true gifts in life and it left a big smile on my face. A very sweet and inventive film that will hopefully leave most of us adults with something to think about when the credits role.
Everyone in all ages deserves to watch this movie
Filmiarvustus29 March 2021
"Soul" is about a musician who is transported out of his body and he must find his way back into actually living. This film is transcending the depths of Pixar's most introspective animations. Every facet comes together beautifully to create an emotional symphony, resulting in a heartbreakingly optimistic narrative. It feels like too much for kids, but the script allows it all to come together beautifully with the emotionally powerful third act, including a heartwarming tear-inducing score and a relatable, well-explored story about the meaning of life. "Soul" may not have the laugh-out-loud sense of humor as other Pixar greats do, but it will touch hearts nonetheless.
Adults need to watch this movie
helvin326 December 2020
Absolutely incredible.
adamstommy16 October 2020
Pixar has done it again! This film is nothing short of amazing. The animation, story, and voice cast are all stunning. Pixar has continually upped their game and Soul is another masterpiece they can add to their library of artwork. I enjoyed every magical moment of this film.
Oh, and be sure to have tissues handy when you watch! Like most Pixar films, Soul will pull at your heartstrings.
Oh, and be sure to have tissues handy when you watch! Like most Pixar films, Soul will pull at your heartstrings.
Deeply hit my Soul!
redkyng31 December 2020
I have a strange feeling after watching this movie, i don't know if i'm sad or happy! Such a deep and enormous experience, it hits me so hard as I share a lot of feelings with 22!, i didn't found my way yet but i hope I will!.... i cried many times... a first time at the age of 38!
Artistically it's a masterpiece, narratively it's a really good one it just needed more time
tmpsvita25 December 2020
Artistically it's a masterpiece without no doubt, it's incredibly inventive like most of the Pixar movies and deeply poetic like just their greatest ones.
It manages to use the animation to create and rationalize images, worlds, characters and concepts so complicated and imaginative that usually can only find their form inside minds.
But at the same time narratively it feels rushed and this makes it hard to be involved, moved and you find yourself detached; so many aspects about the main character, the dimensions he cross and about the philosophy behind them and the main story needed more attention, a more elaborated development, especially in the first half where the movie don't find the right rhythm running and running without a breath, a beautiful, essential breath.
Maybe it just needs to be watched a second time or even more to be fully appreciated.
Still it really is a good movie, even a masterpiece under some aspects as already mantioned, but it could have been a masterpiece under every aspect if it lasted longer.
It had so much to say and too little time to do it.
Loved it almost to tears (and I'm a big man with a beard)
Bert0826 December 2020
Before explaining why I liked this movie, I'd like to point out that the main idea of the movie is *NOT* that you need find your purpose to have a happy life. It's the exact opposite! I'm not saying this just to be a professor, but because it's really important and that's why I loved the film so much. You don't need to be fixated about something to find a meaning in your life. You need to savour it and learn to enjoy the little moments instead of waiting for something big to happen to reach happiness. It's so profound and refreshing. A movie just about a guy waiting for his big moment and feeling fulfilled after having reached it would have been dull, boring, trite and most of all wrong, like pretty much all "self-help" advices.
Instead the opposite idea is presented and if you just pay attention to the dialogues -and the story, really- you'll understand what I mean and most importantly what you might apply to make your everyday life better.
But back to the movie I've got to say I almost cried as the end was approaching as much as I was going to turn off the tv when the movie started. The whole initial setting reminded me too much of Inside Out, a film I quite disliked, so I was worried it was a copy of it (it kind of is in the beginnin). But luckily the second half steered away from it and developed in one of the most moving film I've seen in a long time. Undoubtedly one of Pixar's best.
Moved Me To Tears
TheRealistMax26 December 2020
I can't put into words how close to home this movie hit for me. Not to sound pretentious, but it's more than a movie - it's a life lesson on how to live. It'll teach you that life isn't about careers, goals, passions, or achievements. It's about living, right here in this moment, exactly where you are.
The voice acting, animation, soundtrack, writing - all phenomenal. It is officially the greatest Pixar movie ever created in my book. Kids will enjoy it, but this one is for the older crowd. It's for anyone who's ever felt like their life has been a waste. That they've made too many mistakes, that they should have done something else, that it's too late to live. 10/10
The voice acting, animation, soundtrack, writing - all phenomenal. It is officially the greatest Pixar movie ever created in my book. Kids will enjoy it, but this one is for the older crowd. It's for anyone who's ever felt like their life has been a waste. That they've made too many mistakes, that they should have done something else, that it's too late to live. 10/10
Christmas Gift for the Soul
kfer195725 December 2020
The Ambiguous Spirituality of Soul
BabelAlexandria1 April 2021
A fabulous story about a near-death experience, with some conventional and some interestingly non-conventional statements about life and the afterlife. I really appreciated the major lesson that Joe/Joe's Soul/22 learn over the course of the movie: that one's "spark," or inner motivation, isn't the same as obsession about something (like getting a great gig), because obsession drives many people to become lost souls, despite still living. This observation is made explicitly by one of the "Jerries:" divine(?) beings who control the "Great Before" where souls go before their incarnation, whose straight-line forms suggest computer vector graphics; but they also appeal to quantum mechanics as if to a divine law. These angels of science aren't evil, per se, although the cosmic accountant Terry reminds me of a gnostic demiurge, a being of imperfect knowledge striving for "justice" rather than "mercy." In any case, Soul is enveloped by non-denominational, quasi-scientific, and morally ambiguous pre- and post-mortem realms and their governing angels.
Despite their imperfections, the "Jerries" mean well, and prove their good will at the end, when they offer Joe another chance at living after he selflessly concedes his "badge" (and thus his life) to 22, whom he then shepherds into the next world. For much of the movie, especially when 22 inhabited Joe's body, I was convinced that Joe's body would survive, but that it would no longer be ensouled by his own soul, but by 22. That would have allowed some truly interesting reflections on the nature of personal identity, especially the inner dynamics of major changes to one's motivations and values in life.
Despite their imperfections, the "Jerries" mean well, and prove their good will at the end, when they offer Joe another chance at living after he selflessly concedes his "badge" (and thus his life) to 22, whom he then shepherds into the next world. For much of the movie, especially when 22 inhabited Joe's body, I was convinced that Joe's body would survive, but that it would no longer be ensouled by his own soul, but by 22. That would have allowed some truly interesting reflections on the nature of personal identity, especially the inner dynamics of major changes to one's motivations and values in life.
10/10
abhijitsalvi26 March 2021
Plenty of heart and soul. Dream big!
Sleepin_Dragon16 December 2022
Jazz musician Joe suffers an accident, and ends up having to do a bit of soul searching, for someone known as 22.
This is one of those films you put on in the background (was hoping to get my Christmas wrapping done,) but end up getting hopelessly engrossed in. Incredibly heart warming, a magical storyline, needless to say my wrapping will have to wait for another day.
What an absolutely captivating, heart warming and fairly profound movie this is. Definitely a movie to make you think, make you question, and make you feel.
Visually very appealing, bright and imaginative, I really did love the visuals, especially the other place, wonderfully wacky, just so different.
Great vocal work from Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey, there are plenty of well known voices to enjoy also, Graham Norton is unmistakeable.
It's an animated movie with a big heart, I teared up once or twice, it's a truly lovely movie.
8/10.
This is one of those films you put on in the background (was hoping to get my Christmas wrapping done,) but end up getting hopelessly engrossed in. Incredibly heart warming, a magical storyline, needless to say my wrapping will have to wait for another day.
What an absolutely captivating, heart warming and fairly profound movie this is. Definitely a movie to make you think, make you question, and make you feel.
Visually very appealing, bright and imaginative, I really did love the visuals, especially the other place, wonderfully wacky, just so different.
Great vocal work from Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey, there are plenty of well known voices to enjoy also, Graham Norton is unmistakeable.
It's an animated movie with a big heart, I teared up once or twice, it's a truly lovely movie.
8/10.
The moral was on point - the movie was ok
srgymrat3326 December 2020
This was DEEP, and something every single person can relate to . This idea of where we come from , why we are here and where are are going are fundamental questions that we struggle with as a species and universal themes make film powerful .
This idea that only people who are "great" have lived great lives is an insecurity we all feel and think about , the notion that everyone can find fulfillment and truth is powerful and something we can all unite behind . These ideas are presented clearly and well in a way almost anyone of any age can relate to.
The animation was good, there were some really funny parts , some pop culture references that were amazingly creative .
My main beef comes in with the lack of connection I felt to the characters , they were perfectly likable but I never really found myself cheering for them the way I wanted to . Parts of the plot are unnecessary and over complicated and I probably would not watch this movie again as much as I can recognize that it was well done - it wasn't as entertaining as it needed and not quite artistic enough to make up the difference .
I think everyone will like this film and many will love it - satisfactory movie and use of time .
This idea that only people who are "great" have lived great lives is an insecurity we all feel and think about , the notion that everyone can find fulfillment and truth is powerful and something we can all unite behind . These ideas are presented clearly and well in a way almost anyone of any age can relate to.
The animation was good, there were some really funny parts , some pop culture references that were amazingly creative .
My main beef comes in with the lack of connection I felt to the characters , they were perfectly likable but I never really found myself cheering for them the way I wanted to . Parts of the plot are unnecessary and over complicated and I probably would not watch this movie again as much as I can recognize that it was well done - it wasn't as entertaining as it needed and not quite artistic enough to make up the difference .
I think everyone will like this film and many will love it - satisfactory movie and use of time .
Resonated with me - overall an excellent film
lukeb-1608228 March 2021
Overall a fantastic film with a excellent message which has resonated with me.
As a 25 year old struggling/panicking on starting a career, no idea what I want to do with my life/ getting somewhere in life, getting caught up in the mayhem of life..you end up forgetting the important things in life, almost to take a step back and appreciate everything you have right now.
The animation is fantastic and quite eye popping in 4K, especially when played back on a oled!
The story was exceptional, and really resonated with me. I found a fair few funny moments in this film too, which both adults and children will appreciate.
Overall a excellent film, Pixar have done wonders.
As a 25 year old struggling/panicking on starting a career, no idea what I want to do with my life/ getting somewhere in life, getting caught up in the mayhem of life..you end up forgetting the important things in life, almost to take a step back and appreciate everything you have right now.
The animation is fantastic and quite eye popping in 4K, especially when played back on a oled!
The story was exceptional, and really resonated with me. I found a fair few funny moments in this film too, which both adults and children will appreciate.
Overall a excellent film, Pixar have done wonders.
very good
johnny-8998726 March 2021
Another beautiful and meaningful animation by the genius Pete Doctor. In this animation, Pete Doctor was able to express the heavy concepts such as the soul leaving the body as simply as possible. The only drawback of the animation is that it did not say what happened to the souls after the weak.
I wouldn't show this one to kids...
planktonrules17 November 2021
My summary is NOT because "Soul" is dirty or inappropriate for children. Instead, I say this because it's clearly marketed towards teens and, especially, adults. The usual cute sidekicks and kiddie stuff is missing from this CGI film and the jazz score also might be a bit off-putting to younger audience members.
The story is an existential look at life, our purpose and our passions....not the sort of stuff kids care about and, for that matter, the same could be said of some adults.
Joe is a middle school band teacher who is frustrated because his real ambition is to be in a jazz band. And, just when his big break comes, he ends up dying! All this occurs in the first 10 or so minutes...and the rest is an indescribable journey through the afterlife to investigate these important questions. I could try to explain all this, but it's really tough to explain and you just need to see it for yourself.
The CGI for the film is perfect. It's not all cutesy-cutesy like most CGI films nor is it ultra-realistically creepy like a few (such as "Mars Needs Moms"). It's also nice to see a nice urban contemporary look to the picture. My only complaint, and it's a minor one, is that I think the final portion could have been tightened up a bit. But on the other hand, it's a one of a kind movie...one that is very, very different from Pixar's other products.
The story is an existential look at life, our purpose and our passions....not the sort of stuff kids care about and, for that matter, the same could be said of some adults.
Joe is a middle school band teacher who is frustrated because his real ambition is to be in a jazz band. And, just when his big break comes, he ends up dying! All this occurs in the first 10 or so minutes...and the rest is an indescribable journey through the afterlife to investigate these important questions. I could try to explain all this, but it's really tough to explain and you just need to see it for yourself.
The CGI for the film is perfect. It's not all cutesy-cutesy like most CGI films nor is it ultra-realistically creepy like a few (such as "Mars Needs Moms"). It's also nice to see a nice urban contemporary look to the picture. My only complaint, and it's a minor one, is that I think the final portion could have been tightened up a bit. But on the other hand, it's a one of a kind movie...one that is very, very different from Pixar's other products.
"I'm gonna live every minute of it."
rebelliousjf4 April 2021
This is a movie for everybody to remeber how marvellous life is.
I've always had this thing that I didn't really notice in other people: appreciating little things. Like the sunlight coming trough the windows and leaving rectangles on the wall. Or birds that I haven't heard in a while singing in the early spring. Or when a girl has really nice makeup and you tell them that and they smile. Or a hug. Or when parents laugh with/at each other and you could tell they still love each other. Or when you see a kid playing with a chicken and holding it while driving a toy car. Or walking in a forest and being mesmerized by all this ecosystem that has its own rules. Or when you find a gif of how neurons make connections. Or when someone looks at you with love. Like I was just staring at the comet Neowise last summer and I was crying because we don't get to see things like that very often.
Actually, I just really needed a positive movie, given that everything is pretty stressful right now... or always if you have anxiety. Life really is something. I hope I get the courage to go and really live it.
I've always had this thing that I didn't really notice in other people: appreciating little things. Like the sunlight coming trough the windows and leaving rectangles on the wall. Or birds that I haven't heard in a while singing in the early spring. Or when a girl has really nice makeup and you tell them that and they smile. Or a hug. Or when parents laugh with/at each other and you could tell they still love each other. Or when you see a kid playing with a chicken and holding it while driving a toy car. Or walking in a forest and being mesmerized by all this ecosystem that has its own rules. Or when you find a gif of how neurons make connections. Or when someone looks at you with love. Like I was just staring at the comet Neowise last summer and I was crying because we don't get to see things like that very often.
Actually, I just really needed a positive movie, given that everything is pretty stressful right now... or always if you have anxiety. Life really is something. I hope I get the courage to go and really live it.
SOUL should be seen in the morning of Christmas Day. It will make you enjoy this festive season a lot more.
msbreviews14 December 2020
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Out of my Top15: Most Anticipated Movies of 2020, eight were removed from this year's schedule due to the current global pandemic, so I didn't have that many films for which I felt incredibly excited. I love pretty much everything that Pixar puts out, and at the start of 2020, I noticed that the studio was releasing not one but two original animated movies, something quite uncommon in their history (only happened in 2015 and 2017). Onward was yet another success, but everyone knew Soul was the studio's big gun. December release date means better chances to win an Oscar, and the highly anticipated return of Pete Docter (Monsters Inc., Up, Inside Out) to the director and writer's chairs also elevates the film's expectations.
I'm no different. My expectations were high as the sky, but the main question in my mind wasn't really if Soul was going to be a great movie, but if it would be so good I'd love it more than Wolfwalkers, my favorite animated flick of the year so far? Well, let me write that it's a wonderful, beautiful, heartwarming tie. I love them both very much, and I wouldn't be surprised if I saw them in my Top10. However, this is Soul's spotlight, so let me get to it, and spit out the only minor issue I have with the film. During the first act, I couldn't feel a connection to the story nor the characters. It took me a while to really get fully invested in the narrative, and even technical aspects such as the animation style and the score (Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross) felt weirdly out-of-place and surprisingly not that enthralling.
Nevertheless, this slow, unconvincing beginning doesn't negatively impact the movie overall, as most of these apparently awkward components improve as time goes by. From the moment it clicked with me, I went on that emotional rollercoaster I always expect to ride in a Pixar feature. The studio is known for its extremely heartfelt, shocking, tear-inducing third acts, and even though Soul isn't an exception to that rule, it's far from being one of those mind-blowing, jaw-dropping, devastating final minutes. Its third act is astonishingly emotional, and it sends a lovely message to the audience, one that made me reflect on the entire year and a specific moment in my life.
Pete Docter, Mike Jones, and Kemp Powers explore the taboo subject of life's meaning in a predictable yet profound and entertaining manner. The approach on philosophical questions like "what's my purpose?", "what's my spark?", or "what does it mean to have a soul?" is cleverly developed and very well-written. There's a sequence with the protagonist near the end that will make tons of viewers experience it simultaneously. I found myself rewatching this scene in particular to help me remember a certain period in my life where I realized that what I thought was my destiny was, in fact, just one of those life passions that leave us with unforgettable memories.
I was able to deal with that moment pretty well, but many people lose themselves once they figure out that what they thought they were meant to do/be isn't really what the future holds for them. They become lost souls, and only a spark of life can revitalize them. Soul explores this matter in such an authentic, genuine, creative way that I couldn't help but cry as I do in every Pixar film. Watching Soul will make you appreciate life a lot more, especially those tiny, little moments that we forget to remember. Living, with all its horrible phases, is the best life experience anyone can have. After a year of isolation and separation from the people we love, this movie arrives at the perfect time.
Technically, the animation style and score didn't convince me in the first few minutes, but by the end, they're part of the key aspects that made me cry like a baby. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross are starting to become two of my favorite composers (The Social Network, Gone Girl, Mank). Pete Docter proves that his undeniable talent behind the screen remains intact, and this time, he introduces Hollywood to the debutants Kemp Powers and Mike Jones. Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey (22) deliver some terrific voice work, so expect them to receive dozens of nominations. Finally, congratulations to every single artist that worked on this film's animation. These gifted people are the real stars of Pixar.
All in all, Soul is everything I expected it to be. A classic Pixar feature, with the trademark emotionally powerful third act; a heartwarming, sweet, tear-inducing score; and a relatable, profound, well-explored story about our own soul and the meaning of life. Pete Docter delivers another award-worthy flick with the help of Kemp Powers and Mike Jones, and with the outstanding voices of Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey. It may start slow and follow a predictable path, but it's only a matter of time until every viewer connects with the main characters. Soul surpasses the barriers of cinema, becoming a healing media from which people can take away so, so much. It works seamlessly as a reflection on life, and as a motivation to truly live every single moment of it. It's the ideal movie to watch on the morning of Christmas Day with the entire family cozy and warm in the living room. I promise you: it will make you enjoy this festive season a lot more. Undoubtedly, one of the best films of the year.
Rating: A
Out of my Top15: Most Anticipated Movies of 2020, eight were removed from this year's schedule due to the current global pandemic, so I didn't have that many films for which I felt incredibly excited. I love pretty much everything that Pixar puts out, and at the start of 2020, I noticed that the studio was releasing not one but two original animated movies, something quite uncommon in their history (only happened in 2015 and 2017). Onward was yet another success, but everyone knew Soul was the studio's big gun. December release date means better chances to win an Oscar, and the highly anticipated return of Pete Docter (Monsters Inc., Up, Inside Out) to the director and writer's chairs also elevates the film's expectations.
I'm no different. My expectations were high as the sky, but the main question in my mind wasn't really if Soul was going to be a great movie, but if it would be so good I'd love it more than Wolfwalkers, my favorite animated flick of the year so far? Well, let me write that it's a wonderful, beautiful, heartwarming tie. I love them both very much, and I wouldn't be surprised if I saw them in my Top10. However, this is Soul's spotlight, so let me get to it, and spit out the only minor issue I have with the film. During the first act, I couldn't feel a connection to the story nor the characters. It took me a while to really get fully invested in the narrative, and even technical aspects such as the animation style and the score (Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross) felt weirdly out-of-place and surprisingly not that enthralling.
Nevertheless, this slow, unconvincing beginning doesn't negatively impact the movie overall, as most of these apparently awkward components improve as time goes by. From the moment it clicked with me, I went on that emotional rollercoaster I always expect to ride in a Pixar feature. The studio is known for its extremely heartfelt, shocking, tear-inducing third acts, and even though Soul isn't an exception to that rule, it's far from being one of those mind-blowing, jaw-dropping, devastating final minutes. Its third act is astonishingly emotional, and it sends a lovely message to the audience, one that made me reflect on the entire year and a specific moment in my life.
Pete Docter, Mike Jones, and Kemp Powers explore the taboo subject of life's meaning in a predictable yet profound and entertaining manner. The approach on philosophical questions like "what's my purpose?", "what's my spark?", or "what does it mean to have a soul?" is cleverly developed and very well-written. There's a sequence with the protagonist near the end that will make tons of viewers experience it simultaneously. I found myself rewatching this scene in particular to help me remember a certain period in my life where I realized that what I thought was my destiny was, in fact, just one of those life passions that leave us with unforgettable memories.
I was able to deal with that moment pretty well, but many people lose themselves once they figure out that what they thought they were meant to do/be isn't really what the future holds for them. They become lost souls, and only a spark of life can revitalize them. Soul explores this matter in such an authentic, genuine, creative way that I couldn't help but cry as I do in every Pixar film. Watching Soul will make you appreciate life a lot more, especially those tiny, little moments that we forget to remember. Living, with all its horrible phases, is the best life experience anyone can have. After a year of isolation and separation from the people we love, this movie arrives at the perfect time.
Technically, the animation style and score didn't convince me in the first few minutes, but by the end, they're part of the key aspects that made me cry like a baby. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross are starting to become two of my favorite composers (The Social Network, Gone Girl, Mank). Pete Docter proves that his undeniable talent behind the screen remains intact, and this time, he introduces Hollywood to the debutants Kemp Powers and Mike Jones. Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey (22) deliver some terrific voice work, so expect them to receive dozens of nominations. Finally, congratulations to every single artist that worked on this film's animation. These gifted people are the real stars of Pixar.
All in all, Soul is everything I expected it to be. A classic Pixar feature, with the trademark emotionally powerful third act; a heartwarming, sweet, tear-inducing score; and a relatable, profound, well-explored story about our own soul and the meaning of life. Pete Docter delivers another award-worthy flick with the help of Kemp Powers and Mike Jones, and with the outstanding voices of Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey. It may start slow and follow a predictable path, but it's only a matter of time until every viewer connects with the main characters. Soul surpasses the barriers of cinema, becoming a healing media from which people can take away so, so much. It works seamlessly as a reflection on life, and as a motivation to truly live every single moment of it. It's the ideal movie to watch on the morning of Christmas Day with the entire family cozy and warm in the living room. I promise you: it will make you enjoy this festive season a lot more. Undoubtedly, one of the best films of the year.
Rating: A
Visually amazing but with a weak script
eagandersongil16 March 2021
"Soul" manages to develop his idea well, with great characters and an incredible visual not only for the impeccable animation but also for the personification of the pre-life and its guardians with its humanoid lines, it is an incredible and very intelligent concept.
The script is well crafted, it talks about love and the purpose of life while breaking this concept, but it always raises the flag of passion for something, about the beauty of living and about love for others and art.
The character of 22 represents the virtue of the lack of ignorance to the world and his knowledge of all the suffering that life represents, Joe is a man who has only one purpose in life and is limited to appreciating the beauty intrinsic to life, they are characters who complement and work very well.
"Soul" is not perfect, there was a lot of courage in the third act of its directors, we have a good narrative built and a weak and cowardly ending, there is also a lack of the best use of music and humor, especially in the conversation of 22 with historical characters. Grade 7.5 / 10
The script is well crafted, it talks about love and the purpose of life while breaking this concept, but it always raises the flag of passion for something, about the beauty of living and about love for others and art.
The character of 22 represents the virtue of the lack of ignorance to the world and his knowledge of all the suffering that life represents, Joe is a man who has only one purpose in life and is limited to appreciating the beauty intrinsic to life, they are characters who complement and work very well.
"Soul" is not perfect, there was a lot of courage in the third act of its directors, we have a good narrative built and a weak and cowardly ending, there is also a lack of the best use of music and humor, especially in the conversation of 22 with historical characters. Grade 7.5 / 10
One of Pixar's best
britishswenglish22 October 2020
I was lucky enough to see this at the London Film Festival, where the film was preceded by a (Zoom) interview with the co-directors and producer. It gave some background information, including the score, new animation techniques, and the challenges posed by the pandemic, that really helped to appreciate the film more. (Seriously, there are some amazing things done with animation.)
Pixar has once again done a beautiful job bringing to life a world that exists only in our imaginations, this time showing their interpretation of what our souls are really like. I actually regularly forgot this was a film for children as it is packed full of jokes for adults (especially millennials, who will be taking their own kids to see this) and poignant, thought-provoking moments. It's been ages since I laughed so heartily at a film. And yet it also brought me to tears at one point - it is Pixar after all!
I've taken off one star because the ending had me feeling like there would be a post-credits scene. But I can understand why they ended the film the way they did, and it was probably more realistic that way.
After so many sequels and prequels over the years, some better than others, it's nice to see a really fresh concept from Pixar again. It is beautifully executed and I highly encourage everyone to go see it. And support your local cinema if you can!
Pixar has once again done a beautiful job bringing to life a world that exists only in our imaginations, this time showing their interpretation of what our souls are really like. I actually regularly forgot this was a film for children as it is packed full of jokes for adults (especially millennials, who will be taking their own kids to see this) and poignant, thought-provoking moments. It's been ages since I laughed so heartily at a film. And yet it also brought me to tears at one point - it is Pixar after all!
I've taken off one star because the ending had me feeling like there would be a post-credits scene. But I can understand why they ended the film the way they did, and it was probably more realistic that way.
After so many sequels and prequels over the years, some better than others, it's nice to see a really fresh concept from Pixar again. It is beautifully executed and I highly encourage everyone to go see it. And support your local cinema if you can!
the water is the ocean
SnoopyStyle9 January 2021
Joe (Jamie Foxx) has come to a crossroad in his life. He's offered a full time music teacher job at the high school but all he really wants is to be a jazz pianist. He finally gets a great music opportunity and then he falls into a manhole. He finds himself in the afterlife. After some shenanigans, he is forced to mentor Earthphobic soul 22 (Tina Fey).
I do like the tackling of the questions of life in this movie. Joe is an appealing character. It's an intriguing journey. I love the cat out of water aspect in the middle part of the movie. I love the little nuggets of wisdom. This is a terrific Pixar movie.
I do like the tackling of the questions of life in this movie. Joe is an appealing character. It's an intriguing journey. I love the cat out of water aspect in the middle part of the movie. I love the little nuggets of wisdom. This is a terrific Pixar movie.
Pixar Has Lost Its Touch
evanston_dad15 January 2021
I think Pixar has lost its touch.
Movies like "Wall-E," "The Incredibles," and "Toy Story 3" could hold their own with the best of any live action movies out there. But "Soul" has a generic animated movie quality about it. It's full of platitudes about what it means to be alive, and there's never anything really funny about it nor moving about it, which are qualities in which other Pixar movies have excelled. It felt more like a marketing ploy to get more viewers to subscribe to Disney+ than anything else.
And the ending really cops out. Too pat, too happy. It had a chance to go somewhere poignant but chooses not to.
Grade: B
Movies like "Wall-E," "The Incredibles," and "Toy Story 3" could hold their own with the best of any live action movies out there. But "Soul" has a generic animated movie quality about it. It's full of platitudes about what it means to be alive, and there's never anything really funny about it nor moving about it, which are qualities in which other Pixar movies have excelled. It felt more like a marketing ploy to get more viewers to subscribe to Disney+ than anything else.
And the ending really cops out. Too pat, too happy. It had a chance to go somewhere poignant but chooses not to.
Grade: B
Bland Miss for Pixar
ThomasDrufke8 June 2021
I'm not completely sure why, but I'm in the vast majority when it comes to my opinion on Soul. I didn't care for much of the plot, the heart wasn't there, and even the score (which is usually one of Pixar's strong points) wasn't as good as it should have been, especially for a movie with music as its' centerpoint. I just don't find that it answers a majority of the questions it sets out to ask, about life, afterlife, and any sort of meaning a person can have. What followed was a bland attempt at a deep film by Pixar, which is perhaps their biggest swing and a miss to date.
5.3/10.
5.3/10.
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