Soul

Joe Gardner, a dedicated middle school music teacher, feels stuck in his job and yearns for a career as a jazz musician. Despite his talent, he struggles with the unfulfilled dreams that clash with his mother's expectations.

Joe learns about an audition for the band of renowned jazz musician Dorothea Williams and decides to give it a shot. After showcasing his exceptional piano skills, he is quickly offered a spot in the band, bringing him immense joy.

Just as Joe begins to celebrate his new opportunity, an unfortunate accident occurs when he falls down a manhole. This unexpected fall sends him spiraling into the 'Great Beyond', marking the start of his surreal journey.

Upon falling into the Great Beyond, Joe tries to escape this otherworldly realm that seems to be where souls go after death. He realizes he must find a way back to Earth to pursue his dreams.

Joe finds himself in the Great Before where he meets 22, a soul who refuses to find her purpose. Joe takes on the role of her instructor, believing he can help her discover her spark to return to her life.

Joe attempts various methods to ignite 22's passion for life, but his efforts yield no results. Eventually, 22 introduces him to the 'zone', a euphoric place where individuals connect with their deepest passions.

During their time in the zone, they encounter Moonwind, who helps reveal that Joe's fall led him into a coma. Realizing he must return to his body, Joe devises a plan to escape this new existence.

When Joe jumps back into his life, he accidentally brings 22 with him, resulting in a body swap where Joe ends up stuck in a therapy cat. Meanwhile, 22 experiences life through Joe's body.

As they navigate life together, 22 begins to enjoy simple pleasures, leading to significant moments of joy. They encounter Joe's student Connie, whom 22 inspires to reconnect with her love for music.

At the barbershop, a conversation with Dez helps 22 understand the depth of life. This moment prompts them to visit Joe's mother, Libba, to mend their relationship over some worn pants.

While Moonwind tries to return Joe to his own body, 22 begins to realize the importance of finding her purpose. In a hasty attempt to escape, she inadvertently pulls both herself and Joe back to the Great Before.

In a confrontation back in the Great Before, Joe discovers that the badge meant to signify achievement does not represent life's ultimate goal. Instead, he learns that it’s about the readiness to embrace life itself.

As Joe prepares for his performance with Dorothea, he feels an emptiness despite his achievements. Using memory objects collected by 22, he finds the strength to confront her and help her embrace life.

With newfound purpose, 22 finally regains her badge, getting ready to embrace life on Earth. Joe realizes his journey has allowed them both to understand the beauty of existence and the value of life.

As Joe prepares to depart for the Great Beyond, a Jerry offers him a remarkable opportunity: to continue living. Gratified and renewed, Joe returns to Earth with a deeper appreciation for life and a commitment to live fully.