Pixar’s heartwarming film, Soul, is not just another animated story; it resonates deeply with my family, especially in light of our personal experiences with loss. Following the success of Coco, which beautifully tackled themes of death and remembrance, Soul continues this important conversation. Although it won’t be in theaters until June 2020, the recently released trailer has already captivated us.
The Story of Joe Gardner
At its core, Soul tells the story of Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher and jazz enthusiast, voiced by the talented Jamie Foxx. When a misstep leads to his untimely death, Joe finds himself in the afterlife, where he takes on a new role: guiding souls on how to find purpose before they embark on their human journey. The introduction of 22, a quirky character voiced by Tina Fey, adds a layer of charm as she seeks Joe’s wisdom before stepping into the real world. This film is significant for being Pixar’s first feature with a Black protagonist, and like Coco, it opens the door to discussions about death, allowing children to process grief in a way that is engaging and accessible.
The Impact of Loss
Loss is universal; it affects everyone, regardless of age. Sadly, one in every twenty children under the age of fifteen will lose a parent, and my family is part of the 5-8% of children who have experienced the loss of a sibling. When my youngest daughter, Lily, passed away from SIDS, I became acutely aware of my responsibility to help my surviving children navigate their grief. They often ask heart-wrenching questions about where their sister is and if she still loves them, each inquiry pulling at my heartstrings.
Though I strive to guide them through their feelings, I sometimes find myself at a loss for words, unsure of how to articulate complex emotions in a way they can understand. However, when they engage with films like Coco and Soul, I see their curiosity sparked. They ask questions like, “Is that what happens when you die? Did that happen to Lily?” These moments provide an opportunity for me to help them process their feelings about loss.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Many children face the harsh reality of death far too early in life, yet society often struggles to create a supportive environment for them. We have failed to acknowledge their pain adequately and provide representation for their experiences. It’s important for children to grasp that death is a natural part of life, albeit difficult and often unfair. By addressing this truth in a gentle manner, we can help them understand that it doesn’t have to be shrouded in fear or stigma.
The way I handle my children’s grief, and how society reacts to our loss, will shape their healing process. It is crucial to dismantle the shame surrounding discussions of death. Movies like Soul and Coco offer a platform for children to explore these themes openly, allowing them to connect with others who may be experiencing similar feelings of loss.
Encouraging Open Conversations
As we embrace films that portray death in a light-hearted, yet respectful way, we also pave the way for more children to feel understood. By encouraging open conversations about grief, whether through personal stories or scenes from movies, we can help grieving children bridge their experiences with those of their peers.
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Conclusion
In summary, Soul promises to be a meaningful film that not only entertains but also opens up vital conversations about life and death for children and families alike.