"Soul" deserves acclaim for so many qualities: Its impeccable animation, which captures both hyper realistic renditions of New York streets and storefronts as well as "Tree of Life"-esque spiritual realms. Its soundtrack, which veers from excellent jazz performances to Brian Eno-inspired ambience. Its raucous and unpredictable humor. Its representation of jazz as a vital art form, sure to attract new, young listeners. Its stellar voicework.
Beyond all this, "Soul" creates two compelling protagonists who are more complex and well-developed than characters in countless films for "grown-ups." Joe Gardner has gone into teaching to earn a steady paycheck, but he is ambivalent about accepting a full-time position and abandoning his dream of being a professional jazz pianist. His experiences in the "Great Before" focus his attention on what gives his life meaning. A more predictable script would have Joe realizing that he was meant to be a teacher all along, and that his students, such as drummer Curly and trombonist Conny, were his legacy. Instead, Joe remains committed to his dream. It's not that he's self-centered-he's shown to be a terrific teacher, and he ends up nearly sacrificing his very existence to help his celestial student, 22. The movie instead acknowledges that life is not based on binary choices, and that someone's "spark" cannot be limited to one facet of their personality. Joe has the same complex motivations, regrets, and dreams as a real person.
The character of 22 is just as fascinating. Her story reminds me of "Groundhog Day," a movie that is similarly simple on its surface, but profound on later reflection. In her refusal to become alive, 22 is like many of us, self-contained and hardened to the beauty of life. She first begins to see life's potential when she speaks with Conny, wintessing inspiration firsthand and urging it along. She begins to realize that life's value comes from involvement with and concern for others, and for engagement with nature and one's surroundings. She is saved once she embraces this profound truth.
Beyond all this, "Soul" creates two compelling protagonists who are more complex and well-developed than characters in countless films for "grown-ups." Joe Gardner has gone into teaching to earn a steady paycheck, but he is ambivalent about accepting a full-time position and abandoning his dream of being a professional jazz pianist. His experiences in the "Great Before" focus his attention on what gives his life meaning. A more predictable script would have Joe realizing that he was meant to be a teacher all along, and that his students, such as drummer Curly and trombonist Conny, were his legacy. Instead, Joe remains committed to his dream. It's not that he's self-centered-he's shown to be a terrific teacher, and he ends up nearly sacrificing his very existence to help his celestial student, 22. The movie instead acknowledges that life is not based on binary choices, and that someone's "spark" cannot be limited to one facet of their personality. Joe has the same complex motivations, regrets, and dreams as a real person.
The character of 22 is just as fascinating. Her story reminds me of "Groundhog Day," a movie that is similarly simple on its surface, but profound on later reflection. In her refusal to become alive, 22 is like many of us, self-contained and hardened to the beauty of life. She first begins to see life's potential when she speaks with Conny, wintessing inspiration firsthand and urging it along. She begins to realize that life's value comes from involvement with and concern for others, and for engagement with nature and one's surroundings. She is saved once she embraces this profound truth.