Official promotional poster. Rights belong to the respective rights holders.
Read the film reference Availability and pricing vary by region.SoulA movie brief.
2020 / Animated drama / Directed by Pete Docter, Kemp Powers
Life is a journey worth living.
What is Soul about?
Joe Gardner is a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a jazz pianist. After an accident, his soul separates from his body and embarks on a journey to find its way back.
Five things to know.
Setup
The film introduces Joe Gardner, a passionate music teacher struggling to achieve his jazz pianist dreams in New York City.
World
The movie explores the afterlife, where souls are nurtured and guided before moving on to the next stage of their journey.
Pressure
Joe's soul must navigate the challenges of the afterlife and find a way to return to his body before it's too late.
Craft
The film features stunning animation, blending vibrant colors and imaginative world-building to bring the afterlife to life.
Viewing note
The movie offers a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of life, identity, and the human experience.
A thought to take with you.
Joe's plan to define his life by one musical milestone is interrupted by an experience that makes him reconsider what counts as a life well spent. His time with 22 places ambition beside the unremarkable moments that a narrow definition of purpose can overlook.
Is it your kind of movie?
Choose it for an animated, philosophical comedy about work, purpose, and attention to daily life. It handles death and the afterlife in a gentle but direct way.
Sources & scope
This AI-assisted brief is based on the linked secondary reference. Facts and interpretation are separated; it does not claim personal viewing or independent expert review.
Source details checked September 8, 2026. Suggest a correction · Our editorial approach