Analyzing the Most Common Themes in Pixar Movies

When discussing the themes found in films, we often delve into the underlying ideas and lessons that pervade and resonate through the narrative. Pixar, one of the leading animation studios in the film industry, has built a legacy on creating stories that not only entertain but also resonate on a deeper level. In this article, we will explore the most common themes found in Pixar movies.

Understanding Themes in Cinema

Before we dive into the themes specifically found in Pixar movies, let’s define what a theme is in the context of film and literature. According to the Vox infographic, a theme can be described as an idea that recurs or pervades a work of art or literature, often serving as a central message or moral.

When analyzing the themes in Inside Out as discussed in The Tao of Screenwriting/Movies/TV, these ideas can also be seen as the central idea or the lesson to be learned from the story. By understanding these themes, we can better appreciate the narratives and their profound impact on audiences.

Common Themes in Pixar Movies: An Ad Hoc Community

One of the most recurring themes in Pixar films is the idea of an ad hoc community. This theme can be seen in various Pixar movies where a group of characters, initially strangers, come together for a common cause or goal. This theme often serves to highlight the power of cooperation and the strength found in unity.

Example: In WALL-E, the titular character forms a relationship and bond with Eve, an exploration bot. Although they start as adversaries, they form a friendship that ultimately leads to their collaboration in saving their world. Similarly, in Brave, Merida, a young Scottish princess, builds a team of unlikely heroes to help her rescue her mother.

Mismatched Pair of Partners

Another common theme is the concept of a mismatched pair of partners. This theme often explores the idea that opposites can attract and that despite initial differences, characters can find common ground and grow together through their journey.

Example: In Up, Mack, a lumbering ground squirrel, becomes part of a relationship with Carl Fredricksen and Edna Scarf, forming an unlikely but affectionate bond. In The Good Dinosaur, Arlo, a young Apatosaurus, befriends Spot, a raven, despite their vastly different species and initially conflicting personalities.

Exploring the Hidden World of Everyday Objects

A third theme often found in Pixar movies is the exploration of the hidden world of everyday objects. These films take the familiar and spin it into an adventure, often revealing a whole new dimension to the mundane.

Example: In Inside Out, viewers are taken through the world of emotions residing in the mind of a young girl named Riley. In A Bug's Life, the camera pans to the world of bugs, a perspective that humans rarely see, adding a layer of humor and depth to the narrative.

The Story Themes in Pixar

When exploring story themes, we are often looking at the overarching message or lesson that the author intends to convey. For Pixar, these themes often revolve around personal growth, self-discovery, and the challenges and nuances of life.

Opposites Attract: This theme is prevalent in numerous Pixar films and often serves to show how diverse individuals can come together and learn to appreciate what makes each other different.

Finding Your True Calling: Many Pixar movies explore the theme of finding one’s true passion or purpose in life. Characters are often portrayed on a journey to discover their identity and the unique role they play in the world.

Coming of Age: This theme is crucial in films aimed at both children and adults, as it delves into characters’ personal growth and maturation. It often involves learning valuable life lessons and understanding oneself and the world around them.

Nothing Lasts Forever: This theme is a grim but important lesson that is woven into many stories. It reminds characters (and audiences) that everything has a natural end and that they must cherish the time they have.

Conclusion

Through a combination of these recurring themes, Pixar films have managed to create stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. From the idea of forming an ad hoc community to the exploration of hidden worlds and the universal theme of finding one’s true calling, Pixar continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its heartfelt and insightful stories.

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