22 vs. Earth

22_vs._Earth_poster

22 vs. Earth is a 2021 American animated short film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. It is a prequel to the 2020 feature film Soul. The short film is directed by Kevin Nolting and features the character 22, voiced by Tina Fey, who was introduced in Soul.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The story of 22 vs. Earth is set before the events of Soul. It follows 22, a soul who refuses to go to Earth, as she forms a rebellion against the idea of living a human life. 22 recruits a group of five other new souls in her quest to defy the rules of the Great Before, a place where souls are prepared for life on Earth. Throughout the short, 22's cynical outlook on life is challenged as she interacts with the other souls.

Characters[edit | edit source]

22 - Voiced by Tina Fey, 22 is a soul who has spent centuries in the Great Before and has no interest in going to Earth.
Moonwind - A character who assists souls in finding their purpose.
Jerry - One of the counselors in the Great Before who helps guide new souls.

Production[edit | edit source]

22 vs. Earth was directed by Kevin Nolting, who has been an editor at Pixar for many years. The short film was produced by Pixar Animation Studios, known for their innovative and emotionally resonant animated films. The voice cast includes Tina Fey, who reprises her role as 22 from Soul.

Release[edit | edit source]

The short film was released on Disney+ on April 30, 2021. It was well-received for its humor and the deeper exploration of the character 22.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Critics praised 22 vs. Earth for its witty script and the performance of Tina Fey. The short film was noted for its ability to stand alone while also enriching the narrative of Soul.