Soul Review: 7 Ups And 3 Downs

10. Up: A Diverse Cast In A Vibrant Harlem

Soul is the first Pixar movie to feature a Black lead, but Joe is more than just the studio's attempt to show that they're finally embracing diversity. He's a well-rounded, believable character, and perhaps the most real "person" they've ever put into one of their animated features.

A middle school music teacher who dreams of being a jazz legend, he's easy to root for and an incredibly likeable, often flawed, human being (something many will obviously relate to). As you might expect, Jamie Foxx does a tremendous job bringing Joe to life in the movie, and it's a role the Oscar-winning actor is perfectly suited to.

However, where Soul truly succeeds is in its decision to set this quirky tale in a vibrant, diverse Harlem which definitely reflects what that part of New York City is really like.

There's a real sense of community in Joe's neighbourhood, and thankfully not a single stereotype or cliche anywhere to be found.