Release Date: June 14, 2024
Director: Kelsey Mann
Starring: Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Kensington Tallman, Tony Hale, Lewis Black
Growing Pains
Nine years after Pixar’s beloved psychological adventure “Inside Out” gave us a peek inside the mind of 11-year-old Riley, we return to her headquarters as she navigates the turbulent teenage years with some new emotions joining the team.
Official Trailer
What We Know So Far
“Inside Out 2” catches up with Riley as she enters adolescence, bringing a host of new challenges and, consequently, new emotions. While Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Tony Hale), Disgust (Liza Lapira), and Anger (Lewis Black) have been running a successful operation for years, they’re suddenly joined by newcomers representing more complex teenage emotions.
The most prominent new arrival is Anxiety (Maya Hawke), who quickly attempts to take control of Riley’s mind, believing she’s keeping Riley safe by constantly anticipating dangers and social pitfalls. The film also introduces Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser), Ennui (Adèle Exarchopoulos), and Nostalgia (June Squibb) as Riley deals with high school, changing friendships, and her evolving identity.
What Critics Are Saying
Early reviews praise the film for maintaining the emotional intelligence and visual creativity of the original while tackling the more complex world of teenage emotions. Critics highlight the film’s nuanced approach to anxiety, which is portrayed not simply as a villain but as a well-meaning emotion that sometimes overreaches. The animation continues Pixar’s tradition of technical innovation, with particularly striking sequences inside Riley’s dreamscape and abstract thought center.
Should You Watch It?
If you connected with the original “Inside Out,” this sequel offers an equally thoughtful and entertaining experience that grows with its audience. While aimed at slightly older viewers than the first film, it maintains Pixar’s ability to speak to all ages, giving teens characters they can relate to and parents insight into their children’s emotional lives. “Inside Out 2” proves that Pixar hasn’t lost its touch when it comes to blending entertainment with emotional truth.
Which emotion do you think would be in charge of your control panel? Share in the comments!
Tags: #InsideOut2 #Pixar #Disney #Animation #AmyPoehler #MayaHawke #FamilyMovie