Soul - MovRev part 12

"Soul" is a 2020 Pixar animated film directed by Pete Docter, and co-directed by Kemp Powers. The film tells the story of Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx), a middle school band teacher and aspiring jazz pianist, who finds himself transported to the "Great Before" after an accident. In this metaphysical realm, Joe meets a soul named 22 (voiced by Tina Fey) who has no desire to live on Earth. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn what it means to have a "spark" of life.

One of the standout features of "Soul" is its stunning animation. Pixar has always been known for its ability to create visually stunning films, but "Soul" takes this to a whole new level. The film's use of color, texture, and lighting creates a truly immersive and magical world. The "Great Before" is particularly impressive, with its abstract shapes and pastel hues creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

Another strength of "Soul" is its excellent voice cast. Jamie Foxx gives a strong performance as Joe, bringing both warmth and vulnerability to the role. Tina Fey is also excellent as 22, providing a perfect foil to Joe's more serious demeanor. The chemistry between the two characters is one of the highlights of the film, and their banter and arguments feel both authentic and entertaining.

The film's music is also a highlight, with a score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross that seamlessly blends jazz, classical, and electronic elements. The jazz scenes are particularly well-done, with the film's animators capturing the energy and improvisational spirit of the genre.

One of the most impressive aspects of "Soul" is its thematic depth. The film explores complex and philosophical questions about the meaning of life, the nature of creativity, and what it means to be truly alive. The film's message about the importance of finding one's purpose is delivered in a way that is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

The film also addresses issues of representation, with a predominantly Black cast of characters and a story that is deeply rooted in Black culture. The film's portrayal of Joe as a struggling musician and educator, as well as its depiction of the vibrant New York City jazz scene, feels authentic and respectful.

However, "Soul" is not without its flaws. The film's pacing can feel uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed and others feeling drawn-out. The film's climax, in particular, feels somewhat abrupt and unsatisfying. In addition, the film's treatment of its female characters is somewhat disappointing. While Angela Bassett gives a strong performance as Joe's mother, her character is largely relegated to the sidelines. Similarly, the film's depiction of the "lost souls" as being predominantly female feels somewhat gendered and limiting.

Despite these criticisms, however, "Soul" is a beautiful and moving film that is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its stunning animation, excellent voice cast, and thematic depth make it one of Pixar's best films to date. Its exploration of complex philosophical themes, coupled with its focus on representation and diversity, make it a film that feels both timely and timeless. Whether you're a fan of animation, jazz music, or just a great story, "Soul" is a film that is not to be missed.

The best advice from "Soul" is the importance of finding joy and purpose in everyday life. The film reminds us that our lives are not defined by our achievements or success, but rather by the moments of joy and connection that we experience along the way. Joe spends much of the film chasing his dream of becoming a successful jazz musician, but it's not until he's forced to confront his own mortality that he realizes what truly matters. The film encourages us to take a step back and appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around us, to find meaning in our relationships with others, and to recognize that every moment is an opportunity to discover something new and wonderful about ourselves and the world we inhabit.