Journey into the afterlife and back with Soul (2020), Pixar’s thought-provoking and emotionally rich animated film that explores purpose, identity, and the small joys that make life meaningful. With stunning visuals, a jazzy score, and profound themes, Soul reminds us that it’s not just about chasing dreams — it’s about living them.
Think you remember the ins and outs of Joe Gardner’s soulful adventure? Take this 10-question trivia challenge to test your knowledge. Only those who’ve truly found their spark will ace it!
Soul (2020) Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers to the quiz questions, along with detailed explanations that highlight the heart, humor, and philosophical depth of Soul (2020):
1) Who voices the main character, Joe Gardner, in Soul (2020)?
Correct Answer: Jamie Foxx
Jamie Foxx lends both warmth and passion to the voice of Joe Gardner, making him Pixar’s first Black lead character. Foxx captures Joe’s yearning to fulfill his artistic dreams and brings emotional resonance to the film’s message about appreciating everyday life.
2) What is Joe Gardner’s profession?
Correct Answer: Middle school music teacher
At the start of the film, Joe teaches music to middle school students — a job he sees as a fallback compared to his real dream of being a jazz performer. His journey challenges this perception and reframes the importance of his role as a mentor and educator.
3) What genre of music is Joe passionate about?
Correct Answer: Jazz
Joe’s love for jazz is central to his identity. The film uses jazz not only as a musical style but as a metaphor for improvisation in life. The free-flowing nature of jazz echoes the film’s theme that purpose isn’t a fixed path — it’s discovered moment by moment.
4) What is the name of the soul Joe mentors in the Great Before?
Correct Answer: 22
22 is a jaded and reluctant soul who has refused to go to Earth for centuries. Her humorous yet heartfelt interactions with Joe drive the core of the story. Through their journey, both Joe and 22 gain new perspectives on what it means to live.
5) Who voices the character of 22?
Correct Answer: Tina Fey
Tina Fey brings wit, sarcasm, and emotional vulnerability to the character of 22. Her performance complements Jamie Foxx’s grounded portrayal of Joe, creating a dynamic duo whose growth is as entertaining as it is meaningful.
6) What metaphysical realm do souls pass through before being born?
Correct Answer: The Great Before
The Great Before is a vibrant, whimsical space where souls are assigned personality traits and prepared for life on Earth. It’s visually imaginative and conceptually rich — reflecting Pixar’s creative take on the metaphysical.
7) What object causes Joe’s soul to separate from his body?
Correct Answer: An open manhole
Joe falls into an open manhole shortly after getting his dream gig. The sudden twist sets the story in motion, sending his soul to the afterlife just as he believes his real life is about to begin — a poignant irony that fuels the film’s deeper message.
8) What does 22 struggle to find throughout the film?
Correct Answer: Her spark
22 believes she needs a special “spark” to earn her pass to Earth, but she misunderstands what the spark really is. Her journey reflects the confusion many people feel about finding purpose — and the film ultimately reveals that life itself is the spark.
9) What does Joe realize about life by the end of the film?
Correct Answer: Every moment has value
Joe learns that fulfillment isn’t found only in big achievements, but in small, beautiful moments — a walk, a breeze, a memory. This realization reframes the way he sees both his own life and the lives of those around him.
10) What musical instrument is central to Joe’s passion?
Correct Answer: Piano
The piano is Joe’s instrument of choice and his emotional outlet. His playing is a key expression of his soul, and the film’s music — composed in part by Jon Batiste — beautifully captures the spontaneity and feeling that jazz piano brings to his journey.
