Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
Set before the events of ‘Soul’, 22 refuses to go to Earth, enlisting a gang of 5 new souls in attempt of rebellion. However, 22’s subversive plot leads to a surprising revelation about the meaning of life.
22 vs. Earth is a short Pixar prequel to Soul that rehashes familiar existential themes without adding much new. The plot is thin even by short-film standards—a small rebellion that resolves predictably. Voice performances are charming and consistent with the original. The animation is polished Pixar quality but doesn't push any new visual boundaries beyond what Soul already established. Novelty is limited since it's a derivative companion piece recycling the same setting and concept. The ending offers a mild emotional twist but lacks the resonance of Soul's conclusion.