Pixar's Inside Out 2

Mitchell Booth, 14 Jan 2025

Pixar's Inside Out (2015) resonated deeply with audiences by cleverly creating characters that personify emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, all of which live inside the mind of the main character, 11-year-old Riley. The film's innovative narrative and emotional depth earned it critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Inside Out 2, set for release on June 14, 2024, continues Riley's story as she navigates the complexities of adolescence. Now a teenager, Riley's emotional headquarters transforms with the introduction of new emotions: Anxiety (voiced by Maya Hawke), Envy (Ayo Edebiri), and Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser), reflecting the current modern emotions experienced by teens in the landscape of teenage life. The sequel retains the core voice actors: Amy Poehler (Joy), Phyllis Smith (Sadness), and Lewis Black (Anger), with Tony Hale and Liza Lapira stepping in as Fear and Disgust, respectively. Kensington Tallman voices Riley, capturing her evolution into adolescence.

The overarching moral of Inside Out 2 emphasizes the importance of embracing all emotions, including those that are uncomfortable and challenging. By acknowledging feelings like anxiety and embarrassment, the film promotes emotional growth and self-acceptance.

In comparison, while the original film introduced the concept of emotions guiding behavior, the sequel delves deeper into the complexity of emotional experiences during adolescence. This progression offers a more intricate exploration of the human psyche, resonating with both younger audiences and adults.

Inside Out 2 not only builds upon its predecessor's foundation but also expands the conversation around emotional intelligence, making it a compelling continuation of Riley's journey.