With every new Pixar release I struggle to believe that they can outdo themselves with the production design and animation. Whilst Onward is by no means Pixar’s finest film, the animation is pure excellence. So, with Soul, Pete Doctor’s return to the directing helm after the critical success of Inside Out, my mind could not comprehend how they could make the animation any better. I was wrong. Pete Doctor’s 2020 feature, released on Christmas Day of one of the worst years collectively known to this generation, is perhaps exactly what everyone needs. Clearly, this was not planned; yet it feels so genuine and perfectly timed, a film that has resonated so profoundly with the world in its current state. This is a highly intelligent film, one with a thought provoking subject matter that many kids would not understand. But, Pixar’s magnificence stems from their universality. Soul is the film that balances the childlike magic, beautiful landscapes and pretty colours, with a sophisticated portrayal of life’s small gestures; coupling it so that adults and children alike can sit down and watch magic unfold from their TV screen. Whilst I am hesitant to say whether I enjoyed everything - the stuff in the Great Beyond was not top tier Pixar filmmaking for me (although the character design was genius) - I still felt immensely moved by the collated effect of the film. All the stuff in NYC is beyond excellent filmmaking and the script beautifully harnesses the major themes. However, I just didn’t feel as enthralled in the set-up as I did in the magical 2nd and 3rd acts. Perhaps this year is the most pertinent for a feature like this to release: one that challenges you to leap that extra step further; seize the opportunity; and live every day appreciating the tiniest things that make life so precious. Another stunning film from Doctor that I’m convinced will only grow on me with every rewatch. 

Pixar Ranked

Link to 2020 New Watches Ranked master link: HERE