Like clockwork there’s even more news in the world of movie releases. Who would have thought it. Only this time, the news is positive! Yeah, that’s the loop no one saw coming. In a time where everything is jumping to 2021, Pixar’s looking to bringing everyone a welcome Christmas present to open in their own home. That’s right, Soul is no longer theater-bound, it’s coming to Disney+.
As it’s been a while since the film’s been given the spotlight, here’s the official trailer and synopsis to refresh:
“Joe Gardner is a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before – a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities, quirks and interests before they go to Earth. Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22, who has never understood the appeal of the human experience. As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what’s great about living, he may just discover the answers to some of life’s most important questions.”
Now, the most important pieces of news, as reported by Variety, is the cost. Nothing. Zilch. Nada. As long as you have a Disney+ subscription. Or do a one week trial for free. With as many services are out there, take advantage of free offers, in the biggest way possible. Specifically around December 25, when the film is slated to land on the platform. It should also be noted that countries that don’t have Disney+ yet, it will be released in theaters. At some date to be predetermined, in the future.
The decision for Disney to make such a shift both is slightly unexpected and shows they’re willing to adapt to this current climate. When they announced that Mulan would come to Disney+ with a premium $30 price tag attached, people scoffed. Then they did so a second time, after seeing the very adequate, but not earth-shattering film. By offering up Soul as just another part of the subscription package, it feels like a gesture of good will. As well as likely to bring in a ton of new subscribers.
It’s hard to guage if this is the route Disney is planning to go in the future or a mix of this tact and the road trod down by Mulan. Their Marvel slate has been pushed back, hoping for theatrical clarity for next year. If push comes to shove, what price tag does it deserve? Will they go the Onward route, having a general $20 VOD tag for animated fare, that a month later gets put on Disney+? No one can say for sure, but the move to “give” Soul for the holidays, is exciting. With a lack of movies coming out for the remainder of 2020, this is something to look forward to.
