Released by Pixar Animation Studios in 2020, Soul stands out as one of the most thought-provoking and spiritually rich films of recent years. Directed by Pete Docter, who also directed Inside Out, the film explores deep themes of life, purpose, and the afterlife through the story of Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher and aspiring jazz musician. While Soul is an animated film, its exploration of spirituality transcends its child-friendly appearance, offering profound insights into the nature of existence, the soul, and the pursuit of passion. It invites viewers of all ages to reflect on the meaning of life, the importance of self-discovery, and the delicate balance between ambition and living in the moment.
At the heart of Soul is the question of what it means to truly live, a question often explored in spiritual traditions. Joe Gardner’s character is consumed with the idea of becoming a famous musician. However, after an unexpected accident leads to his death, he finds himself in the "Great Before," a spiritual realm where souls are prepared for life on Earth. Here, Joe meets 22, a soul who has yet to find her "spark"—the unique passion or purpose that will allow her to begin her life on Earth. The central message of Soul revolves around this search for purpose and meaning, which many spiritual traditions also consider crucial to human existence. In various spiritual practices, discovering one’s true calling or purpose is seen as a path to enlightenment, fulfillment, and a deeper connection to the divine.
The film addresses the concept of the soul as something beyond the physical body, tapping into ideas from many spiritual belief systems that view the soul as eternal, transcendent, and boundless. Joe's journey through the afterlife emphasizes the spiritual belief that life is not limited to material accomplishments or external success, but instead is about internal growth, connection, and experience. The idea of the soul is portrayed not as a static entity, but as something fluid and constantly evolving. Throughout the film, Joe’s quest for meaning leads him to an epiphany: the importance of the present moment and the everyday experiences that make life rich and meaningful. In spiritual teachings, the concept of living in the now—of being present and grateful for the ordinary moments of life—is often emphasized as a path to true fulfillment and enlightenment.
The character of 22 offers another spiritual dimension to the film. As a soul who has never been able to find her passion, she embodies the existential crisis of those who feel disconnected from their sense of purpose. However, through her journey with Joe, she learns that there is beauty in simply living and experiencing life, rather than waiting for some grand epiphany. This resonates with spiritual concepts that encourage individuals to find peace not through external accomplishments, but through inner contentment, mindfulness, and acceptance of the self. 22’s transformation represents the awakening of the soul, a common theme in many spiritual practices where the journey of self-realization leads to a greater understanding of one’s place in the universe.
Soul also delves into the relationship between life and death, touching on spiritual themes of the afterlife and reincarnation. The "Great Beyond" is depicted as a bright, calming place, symbolizing a peaceful transition from the physical world to the spiritual realm. However, Soul presents a refreshing perspective by emphasizing that death is not an end, but part of a continuous cycle. The film does not shy away from the idea that life is transient, but it encourages viewers to focus on the journey itself rather than the destination. This aligns with many spiritual philosophies that view life as a process of learning, growth, and eventual return to a source greater than oneself.
In conclusion, Soul is more than just a children’s film about a jazz musician—it is a profound meditation on spirituality, purpose, and the human experience. Through its exploration of the soul, purpose, and the importance of living in the present moment, the film resonates with spiritual themes that encourage viewers to reflect on their own lives and spiritual paths. It teaches that while the search for purpose is important, it is the journey—finding meaning in the small moments of life—that holds true spiritual value. In a world increasingly focused on achievements and external validation, Soul invites its audience to reconnect with the deeper, more meaningful aspects of existence, making it a timeless film for both children and adults seeking answers to life’s most profound questions.
