“Inside Out 2” (2024)

Animated

Running Time: 102 monutes

Written by: Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein

Directed by: Kelsey Mann

Featuring: Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Kensington Tallman, Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Lewis Black, Phyllis Smith, Ayo Edebiri, Lilimar, Grace Lu, Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan and Paul Walter Hauser

Joy: “I don’t know how to stop Anxiety. Maybe we can’t. Maybe this is what happens when you grow up. You feel less joy.”

“Inside Out 2” takes viewers back into the imaginative world of Riley’s emotions with an invigorating blend of humor, heart, and psychological insight. The sequel to Pixar’s beloved “Inside Out” expands on the original’s innovative concept, delving deeper into the complexities of human emotions and the challenges of growing up.

The film picks up with Riley now navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence. This new chapter introduces a fresh array of emotions to her internal control room, each one brilliantly voiced and characterized. The addition of emotions like Anxiety and Apathy brings new dimensions to the narrative, enriching the already diverse emotional landscape.

One of the film’s standout aspects is its ability to balance humor and poignant moments. The dynamic interactions between the emotions provide plenty of laughs, while the storyline touches on more mature themes such as identity, mental health, and the struggle for self-acceptance. The script is clever, ensuring that the humor appeals to both children and adults, making it a truly family-friendly movie.

Visually, “Inside Out 2” is stunning. The animation is vibrant and detailed, capturing the essence of the mind’s intricate workings in a visually appealing manner. The creativity behind the representation of abstract concepts remains a highlight, as the film explores new areas of Riley’s mind with inventive and captivating designs.

The voice cast delivers exceptional performances, with returning actors bringing consistency and new additions seamlessly blending into the ensemble. Their portrayals add depth and relatability to the characters, making the audience care deeply about their journey.

One of the film’s most commendable achievements is its handling of complex emotional and psychological themes. It offers valuable insights into the importance of acknowledging and understanding one’s emotions, making it not just an entertaining watch but also a meaningful one. “Inside Out 2” encourages viewers to embrace their feelings, understand their mental health, and communicate openly about their inner experiences.

Overall, “Inside Out 2” is a triumphant sequel that lives up to its predecessor’s legacy. It combines humor, heart, and insightful storytelling to create an emotionally resonant experience. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to Riley’s world, this film is a must-watch that promises to leave a lasting impact.