
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.

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.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
The film explores complex existential themes and features moments of mild peril. Its abstract concepts and emotional depth are best understood by children with developed cognitive abilities.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The movie does not contain any sexual content or nudity. Relationships are handled with a focus on friendship and mentorship.
Violence & Gore
While there is a brief, non-graphic accident that initiates the plot, the movie's 'violence' is mostly metaphorical or relates to abstract spiritual concepts. There are some moments of intense action in the spirit world that are stylized and not realistic.
Profanity
There are very minimal instances of mild profanity, such as a single use of 'd*mn' in a moment of exasperation. The language is generally clean and appropriate for most audiences.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There are a few brief, non-prominent scenes where characters are shown in environments where alcohol might be present (like a jazz club), but it is not a focus and no one is shown drinking excessively. No drug use or smoking is depicted.
Frightening Scenes
The movie touches on themes of existential dread and the fear of not living up to one's potential, which may be intense for very young children. Some scenes in the 'Great Before' and the 'Lost Soul' realm can be a bit unsettling or suspenseful.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a music teacher who, after an accident, visits a special place where souls get ready for life. He learns a lot about what makes life meaningful, even when things don't go as planned.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The film delves into philosophical questions about existence and purpose, which may prompt deeper conversations. There are some moments of mild peril and existential dread related to Joe's situation.
What Kids Can Learn
Children can learn about the value of pursuing their interests, understanding the unique spark within themselves, and finding joy in the present.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Offers sophisticated storytelling and visual artistry with themes that resonate deeply with adult experiences of career, purpose, and life reflection.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Emphasizes the importance of appreciating life's simple moments and finding purpose in everyday experiences. It champions the value of passion and the realization that true fulfillment comes from within, not external validation.
Positive Role Models
Joe Gardner's dedication to his passion for jazz and his journey of self-discovery offer a compelling model of perseverance and introspection. 22's arc demonstrates the possibility of growth and finding one's spark, even after prolonged stagnation.
Diverse Representations
Features a Black protagonist and explores themes of identity and cultural passion, offering authentic representation. The film showcases a diverse ensemble of characters within the metaphysical realm.
Educational Value
Promotes social-emotional learning by exploring concepts like empathy, the meaning of life, and the beauty of individuality. It also subtly introduces elements of jazz music and its cultural significance.
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