Soul

Soul

Year: 2020

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Directors: Pete Docter, Kemp Powers

AdventureSci-FiFantasyComedyMusicAnimationFamily

A middle school band teacher named Joe Gardner suddenly finds himself in The Great Before, a vibrant realm where young souls prepare for life on Earth. Partnering with the cynical and reluctant soul number 22, Joe sets out on a journey to return to his body in New York City. Along the way, they experience life's challenges and joys, leading Joe to a profound realization about the value of everyday moments and the importance of human connection.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Soul yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Soul (2020)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Soul (2020). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film takes place in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern-day life in America. Themes of jazz culture and middle school dynamics are core elements, grounding it in the present while exploring timeless messages about passion and purpose.

Location

The Great Before, Earth

The Great Before is a whimsical and ethereal realm where souls are prepared for life on Earth. It's filled with counselors known as Jerry, guiding souls like 22 in their journey of self-discovery. Earth, where Joe Gardner lives, is depicted through various locations including a middle school and a vibrant city where jazz thrives.

🌌 Otherworldly 🌍 Earth

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:49

Main Characters – Soul (2020)

Meet the key characters of Soul (2020), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Joe Gardner (Daveed Diggs)

Joe Gardner is a passionate middle school music teacher who dreams of being a jazz musician. He feels unfulfilled with his current life path until a chance audition changes everything. Throughout the film, Joe learns to appreciate life's moments and the meaning behind his 'spark'.

🎹 Dreaming 🎶 Musician

22 (Tina Fey)

22 is a cynical and elusive soul who resists finding her purpose in life. Despite her reluctance, she embarks on a transformative journey alongside Joe, discovering the joys of existence through shared experiences. 22's character arc is a significant exploration of personal growth and self-acceptance.

🌈 Purpose 🔄 Transformation

Dorothea Williams (Angela Bassett)

Dorothea Williams is a talented jazz musician and Joe's mentor. She recognizes Joe's potential and offers him a chance to pursue his dreams. Her character represents the importance of guidance and inspiration in the pursuit of one's passion.

🎺 Inspiration 🌟 Mentor

Libba (Phylicia Rashad)

Libba is Joe's mother and a seamstress who disapproves of her son's passion for jazz. She represents traditional values and parental expectations, showing a different perspective on the pursuit of dreams and personal fulfillment.

👩‍👦 Family 💼 Expectations

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:49

Major Themes – Soul (2020)

Explore the central themes of Soul (2020), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎷 Self-Discovery

The theme of self-discovery is central to Joe and 22's journey. Joe learns the importance of embracing life and pursuing his passion for jazz, while 22 embarks on her own quest to find purpose. Their experiences highlight how personal growth often comes from unexpected circumstances.

✨ Passion for Life

Throughout the film, the passion for life is a vital theme, illustrated in Joe's love for music and 22's struggle to find her spark. The story emphasizes that life is not merely about achievements but the joy and experiences along the way, inspiring viewers to cherish every moment.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:49

Unlock the Full Story of Soul

Don't stop at just watching — explore Soul in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Soul is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Soul Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Soul, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Soul Summary

Soul Timeline

Track the full timeline of Soul with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Soul Timeline

Soul Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of Soul? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

Soul Ending Explained

More About Soul

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Soul: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Soul

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