12 Proofs That Powerful Meaning Hides in Every Pixar Animation

Pixar has been creating our favorite animated films for many years. Each of their movies is filled with deep psychological meaning and details that only the most attentive viewers can catch. We decided to delve into a few popular Pixar animations.

Soul (2020)

The main character has a real-life counterpart. Peter Archer, a retired music teacher who left his job in June 2020 after 34 years of teaching in a New York school, served as the inspiration for Joe Gardner. The filmmakers not only drew inspiration from Peter for the creation of Joe Gardner but also attempted to depict the classroom where Archer worked.

Monsters, Inc. (2001)

Sulley calls the child “Boo.” But her drawings are signed “Mary,” which seems to be her real name.

The Good Dinosaur (2015)

This animation is not just about the friendship between a small boy and a big dinosaur. It’s about a world where nature conquered civilization and not vice versa. While children enjoy the dynamic story and bright characters, adults may ponder over the fears Arlo the dinosaur had to overcome and over the power of true friendship.

Brave (2012)

Brave is a great reminder that nobody has to comply with somebody else’s expectations. Following the story of the relationship between brave Merida and her mother, who has planned her daughter’s future up to the smallest detail, we understand that girls don’t have to be princesses if they love crazy adventures.

WALL-E (2008)

This animation is not just about deep feelings. It’s also about big responsibilities. WALL-E teaches us to take care of Earth by showing the potential future of our planet if we continue to use its resources without limits.

Cars (2006)

Lightning McQueen is a typical self-confident winner who is about to understand that the role of a team should not be underestimated. His colleagues, teachers, friends, and fans all help him to reach the finish line first.

Finding Dory (2016)

The main character of the animation is a cute fish named Dory who is very forgetful. She dreams of finding her family but can’t remember where they are. Memory blackouts are a condition Dory was born with. On the example of this cartoon, parents can explain to their children how important it is to accept others the way they are.

Inside Out (2015)

Inside Out is one of the most powerful animations by Pixar, and it was even approved by psychotherapists. The main heroine is Riley, a girl who tries to cope with her emotions (joy, sadness, fear, anger, and disgust). Riley can help both adults and children see that it is normal to experience different emotions — we just need to keep them under control.

Up (2009)

A sad and touching story about loneliness and old age. Carl thinks about his late wife every day and about the adventures they used to dream of together. Eventually, Carl decides to travel by himself in his flying house, but a funny boy scout brings some changes to his plans. This animation tells us that we need fairy tales in our lives...at any and every age.

Ratatouille (2007)

Remy the rat dreams of becoming a chef. Though no one believes in him, he still moves toward his goal. Ratatouille teaches us that your background is not important if you are brave enough to fulfill your dream.

The Incredibles (2004)

The main characters of the story are a family trying to look ordinary. But they feel depressed and sad because they have to hide their superpowers. The essence of the film is that the talents and skills given to us are an integral part of our personality. By rejecting them, we reject ourselves.

Monsters, Inc. (2001)

The role of the monsters in this Pixar animation is to scare every single child in the world. But intimidation is the worst weapon a flourishing society can use. The heroes of the story soon find out that mutual understanding, respect, and benevolence are much stronger than fear.

And finally a small bonus

Pixar employees: “Can we go home after a 16-hour working day?“

Pixar: ”No, I want to see every single fiber on this T-shirt."

Fitting all the intriguing details about Pixar movies into one article is impossible. Therefore, we invite you to read another one where we delve into the Easter Eggs in your favorite animations.