sal espo

Soul I feel would not have the impact it does had it not been for all that happened in 2020. It's unfortunate it couldn't make it's original release date. But, I feel if it did, and everything we're experiencing this year didn't happen. It would only be seen as a "nice" film. But it's themes, hit so much harder, after we've had this year of not being able to live life the way we want to. We have to stay indoors, stay away from people, and can't take in the world around us as easily as we used to. This film needed to come out when it did. Soul celebrates life and the passions of those who live it. Exploring how things aren't as black and white as we tend to think they are. Or in how we are raised to believe they are. People change, and so do their interest's. But also exploring how our passion's can drive us, both for the good and the bad. Or how existential it can feel, when you feel you don't have one. New York as the setting is so perfect for this, since the city is such a Hodge podge of personalities. And just due to the nature of the city, you have little choice but to take everything and everyone around you in. Soul even takes the time to show all the minor things in life we take for granted, as having this greater meaning. It makes day to day life sweeter, not noticed really, until being made unable to do so. I haven't mentioned the art design, the score, or the humor, as those are all fronts others will undoubtedly mention, and I certainly do praise those aspects, I absolutely adored them. They enhanced the experience certainly! But this film's messages really spoke to me, as I'll assume they will others. After this difficult year. Or in some cases, after past difficult years as well. This film was a much needed pick me upper. I implore you to view the film if you are able. It's a film that really speaks to all age groups. And (no pun intended) really has a lot of soul put into it.