Soul

Soul

Movie (2020)

Everybody has a soul. Joe Gardner is about to find his.

Joe Gardner is a middle school teacher with a love for jazz music. After a successful audition at the Half Note Club, he suddenly gets into an accident that separates his soul from his body and is transported to the You Seminar, a center in which souls develop and gain passions before being transported to a newborn child. Joe must enlist help from the other souls-in-training, like 22, a soul who has spent eons in the You Seminar, in order to get back to Earth.

Animation
Family
Drama
Music
Fantasy
101 minutes
Released
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 8+

The film explores complex existential themes, including death and the nature of the afterlife, which require a level of emotional maturity to process. While the animation is engaging, the philosophical questions about purpose and fulfillment are better suited for school-aged children.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

0/5

The film contains no romantic or sexual content, as it focuses entirely on themes of purpose and passion.

Violence & Gore

1/5

There is brief slapstick humor and some mild cartoon-style peril, but no graphic violence or physical injury.

Profanity

1/5

The language is very clean, containing only a single instance of the mild word "h*ll" used in a non-aggressive, context-appropriate manner.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

There are very minor background elements, such as a brief scene in a jazz club where adults might be seen with drinks, but no substance use is depicted as a focal point.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

Some younger children might find the concept of the afterlife and the "soul-trapping" abstract entities slightly intense or confusing, though it is never portrayed as overtly frightening.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This movie asks big questions about what makes us who we are and encourages finding joy in the simple, everyday things that make life special.

Content Warnings

Depiction of death
Existential anxiety

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The story takes place between Earth and an ethereal afterlife, involving a temporary death. Expect discussions about the meaning of life and what happens after it ends.

What Kids Can Learn

Children gain perspective on defining their own worth beyond external successes or academic performance.

Key Topics Discussed

Existentialism
Passion vs. Purpose
The value of human connection

Why Parents Might Like It

The sophisticated jazz soundtrack and nuanced exploration of mid-life crisis and professional burnout resonate deeply with adult viewers.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

5/5

It emphasizes that life's value lies in the journey and everyday small moments rather than singular achievements. The narrative promotes self-discovery and the importance of empathy.

Role models

4/5

The protagonist undergoes significant personal growth, learning to value mentorship and connection over his own singular goals. Characters demonstrate resilience, patience, and the capacity for change.

Representation

5/5

The film features a Black lead and centers on African American culture, particularly the significance of jazz and community in urban environments. It offers authentic, respectful portrayals of Black identity and heritage.

Learning

4/5

Exposure to jazz history and music appreciation, combined with deep social-emotional learning regarding identity and personal motivation.

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