22 vs. Earth (2021) Review: A Heartwarming and Thought-Provoking Pixar Short
Introduction
“22 vs. Earth,” directed by Kevin Nolting and released in 2021, is a charming Pixar short film that serves as a delightful prequel to the feature film “Soul.” This short provides an engaging exploration of the character 22 (voiced by Tina Fey), who is seen grappling with life and purpose before the events of the full-length film. With its humor, warmth, and emotional depth, “22 vs. Earth” expands on the themes of “Soul” while offering its own unique and touching narrative. In this review, we’ll explore the plot, characters, themes, and reception of the short film, as well as where you can watch it online.
Plot Overview
“22 vs. Earth” takes place in the “You Seminar,” the setting introduced in “Soul,” where souls prepare for their earthly lives. The short focuses on 22, a soul who has previously shown a reluctance to be born into the human world. Despite her resistance, she is presented with an opportunity to challenge the established norms of the seminar.
The plot revolves around 22’s mischievous plan to rebel against the seminar’s rules. She decides to rally other souls to join her in rejecting the idea of being born into the human world, hoping to prove that she and her followers are better off staying in the seminar. The short humorously depicts 22’s efforts to persuade the other souls to join her cause, showcasing her unique perspective and clever antics.
As the story unfolds, 22’s plan leads to a series of amusing and insightful interactions, ultimately leading her to confront her own feelings about life, purpose, and the human experience. The short film explores 22’s journey of self-discovery and offers a deeper understanding of her character.
Characters and Performances
Tina Fey reprises her role as the voice of 22, bringing her signature wit and charm to the character. Fey’s performance captures 22’s stubbornness and curiosity, adding depth to the character’s internal struggle and evolution.
The short features several supporting characters, including various souls in the seminar. While they have smaller roles, their interactions with 22 contribute to the film’s humor and thematic exploration.
The animation of the characters and settings is consistent with the style of “Soul,” maintaining the visually appealing and imaginative design of the You Seminar. The characters are expressive and engaging, contributing to the short’s overall appeal.
Themes and Symbolism
“22 vs. Earth” explores several key themes:
Purpose and Self-Discovery: The short delves into themes of purpose and self-discovery, similar to “Soul.” 22’s resistance to being born into the human world reflects her struggle with finding her own purpose. Through her rebellious actions, she begins to confront her own fears and uncertainties about life.
Rebellion and Conformity: The film humorously examines the concept of rebellion against societal norms and the idea of conformity. 22’s efforts to persuade other souls to reject the idea of human life highlight the tension between individuality and the pressure to conform.
Curiosity and Growth: 22’s journey in the short underscores the importance of curiosity and personal growth. Her interactions with other souls and her efforts to challenge the status quo lead to moments of self-reflection and growth, contributing to her character development.
The Value of Life: The short touches on the value of life and the experiences that come with it. While 22 initially rejects the idea of being born, her journey ultimately leads her to a deeper appreciation of the human experience and the possibilities it offers.
Animation and Direction
The animation in “22 vs. Earth” is visually captivating, continuing the style and aesthetic of “Soul.” The vibrant colors, imaginative settings, and expressive character designs contribute to the short’s engaging and whimsical tone.
Kevin Nolting’s direction ensures that the film maintains a balance between humor and emotional depth. Nolting’s approach allows for a nuanced exploration of 22’s character while providing an entertaining and thought-provoking narrative.
Reception and Impact
“22 vs. Earth” received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its humor, charm, and connection to “Soul.” The short was praised for its ability to expand on the themes of the feature film while offering a unique and engaging story of its own.
The film’s exploration of 22’s character and her journey of self-discovery resonated with many viewers, adding depth to the character’s arc and providing additional context to the themes explored in “Soul.”
Where to Watch “22 vs. Earth” Online
For those interested in watching “22 vs. Earth,” here are some streaming options available:
1. Disney+
- Availability: The short is available for streaming on Disney+.
- Subscription Required: Yes
Conclusion
“22 vs. Earth” (2021) is a delightful and thought-provoking Pixar short that offers a charming exploration of the character 22 from “Soul.” With engaging performances, vibrant animation, and a compelling narrative, the short provides additional context and depth to the character’s journey. Its blend of humor and emotional insight makes it a valuable addition to the Toy Story universe.
Whether you’re a fan of “Soul” or simply looking for an entertaining and heartfelt short film, “22 vs. Earth” offers a delightful viewing experience. Available on Disney+, it’s accessible for those looking to explore this charming and insightful film.
