Pixar is known for tackling profound themes in their animated films, and their latest release, ‘Soul,’ is no exception. Following the emotional journey of ‘Coco,’ ‘Soul’ takes a unique approach to the concept of life and death, providing a tool for children to understand and cope with loss. Although the film won’t be in theaters until June 2020, the recently released trailer has already captivated audiences with its stunning visuals.
Meet Joe Gardner
At the heart of ‘Soul’ is Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher and aspiring jazz musician, voiced by Jamie Foxx. After an unexpected turn of events leads to his death, Joe finds himself in the afterlife, where he becomes a mentor to souls preparing to enter the human world. His first student, 22 (voiced by Tina Fey), is a spirited character who seeks guidance before embarking on her journey to Earth.
Addressing the Topic of Death
‘Soul’ stands out not only as Pixar’s first film featuring a black protagonist but also for its potential to address the sensitive topic of death and its impact on young viewers. Death, while a difficult subject, is a universal experience that can be particularly challenging for children to grasp. Research indicates that one in twenty children under the age of fifteen will lose a parent, and even more will experience the loss of a sibling. My family belongs to the latter group; my children have faced the heart-wrenching reality of losing their sister, which has made our conversations about death all the more critical.
Navigating Grief as a Parent
As a mother navigating this painful journey, I often find myself at a loss for words when my children ask about their sister. They ponder where she is, why she’s gone, and whether she still loves them. Each question cuts deep, yet films like ‘Soul’ offer an opportunity to broach these subjects in a way that resonates with their age. I’ve seen how they engage with the themes presented in films like ‘Coco’ and anticipate similar reactions to ‘Soul.’ These conversations can serve as gateways for my children to explore their feelings about grief without fear or confusion.
The Importance of Open Discussions
It’s essential to recognize that children everywhere are grappling with the aftermath of loss, often without adequate support or understanding. Society has a tendency to shy away from discussing death, leaving many children feeling isolated in their grief. However, introducing the concept of death through relatable narratives can help demystify it, showing children that it is a natural part of life rather than something to be feared.
The way we, as adults, respond to loss profoundly influences how children process their grief. By fostering open discussions around death, whether prompted by personal experiences or through films, we can help children build connections with others facing similar struggles. This approach can bridge the gap between their experiences and the seemingly normal lives of their peers.
Creating Spaces for Understanding
With the rise of films like ‘Soul’ and the charming storytelling in ‘Coco,’ we have an opportunity to dismantle the stigma surrounding death while providing representation for grieving children. These narratives can create spaces for understanding and expression, allowing children to feel seen and validated in their experiences.
Conclusion
In summary, Pixar’s ‘Soul’ has the potential to empower families to engage with the topic of death in a meaningful way. It serves as a reminder that while loss is a painful reality, it is also a part of life that can be approached with honesty and compassion.
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