22 vs. Earth

22 vs. Earth from 2021 is a dramatic and yet captivating short film that takes viewers on a fantastical journey through the metaphysical cosmos. This Pixar animated short represents a prequel to the lauded 2020 animation 'Soul' and features the voice acting talents of Tina Fey, Richard Ayoade, and Alice Braga.

From the start, 22 vs. Earth sweeps the audience into a whimsical world that travels both within and beyond the parameters of human understanding, stirring up an array of emotions and thoughts. The storyline is fascinating as it centers around 22, a soul voiced by the talented Tina Fey, who hails from the great beyond, a transitory world between life and death. The short depicts her experiences in this celestial terrain before encountering a certain soul on the brink of heading to Earth for the first time – an event that the 'Soul' fans would recollect well.

Fey delivers an exceptional vocal performance as 22, a soul who is none too thrilled about potentially starting a life on Earth. She does a remarkable job of making this soul both relatable and wonderfully funny. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her ability to convey various emotions through her voice adds depth and personality to the character. Alongside her, Richard Ayoade and Alice Braga give lively and engaging performances that further bring this unique universe to life.

The narrative of 22 vs. Earth is one of adventure, laughter, and thought-provoking discourse. The story uniquely explores important themes about life's meaning, human purpose, and the experiences that shape us. It weaves a clever plot where 22 devises a rebellious plan to avoid moving on to Earth, recruiting a gang of five other pre-newborn souls who similarly have their reservations about terrestrial life. The dynamics between these characters bring about humor and charm that balance the story well and cater to both young and older audiences.

Visually, 22 vs. Earth is a feast for the eyes. It continues Pixar's reputation for delivering top-notch animation. The detailed and imaginative depiction of the Great Before dives into breathtakingly ethereal landscapes, vibrant colors, and innovative character designs. Each scene is beautifully created and meticulously animated to immerse the viewer in this boundless creative universe. The film's aesthetic aligns perfectly with the narrative – light and soft, yet profound enough to match the depth of the storyline.

Equally impressive is the film's score, which plays a critical role in setting the overall mood and enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative. The music perfectly complements the animated visuals, creating an atmospherically rich cinematic experience that remains with viewers well after the credits roll.

Despite being a short film, 22 vs. Earth delivers a powerful punch. Its storytelling is concise, yet never rushed, maintaining a balanced pacing that keeps the audience engaged throughout. It's a family-friendly animated film that not only provides entertainment but also stirs deep thought and introspection.

The directorial team impressively give vivid life to this extension of the 'Soul' universe, never shying away from exploring significant existential themes in an easily digestible format for younger viewers. It also offers lessons about life, purpose, and the value of experiences in shaping our identities – insights that remain relevant long after the film ends.

The screenplay is commendably well-written, filled with moments of humor, tender sincerity, and imaginative creativity. The dialogues are smart and funny, sprinkling just enough comic relief to lighten the film's profound themes.

In closing, 22 vs. Earth isn't just an ordinary animated short. It's a visually splendid, thematically profound, and comically heartwarming viewing experience that explores some of life's most significant questions in an engaging and enjoyable way. Its blend of superior animation, memorable characters, and insightful storyline make it a worthy companion piece to Pixar's 'Soul'. This short film is a delightful watch that will both entertain and stir meaningful reflection among its viewers.