Inside Out 2 is a 2024 American animated coming-of-age film produced by Pixar Animation Studios for Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Kelsey Mann in his feature directorial debut, the film serves as a sequel to the acclaimed 2015 movie Inside Out. The screenplay, penned by Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, continues to explore the intricate world of human emotions, this time focusing on Riley's tumultuous teenage years.
Plot Summary
Set two years after the original film, Inside Out 2 delves into the mind of 13-year-old Riley as she navigates the complexities of adolescence. The familiar emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—are joined by new counterparts: Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui. As Riley faces challenges such as fitting in at a new school and striving to prove herself at a hockey camp, her internal emotional landscape becomes increasingly intricate. The film portrays how these emotions interact and influence Riley's decisions, highlighting the universal experience of growing up.
Cast and Characters
Amy Poehler as Joy: The ever-optimistic emotion striving to maintain Riley's happiness.
Phyllis Smith as Sadness: Providing depth and empathy to Riley's experiences.
Lewis Black as Anger: Expressing Riley's frustrations and sense of justice.
Tony Hale as Fear: Keeping Riley safe by anticipating potential dangers.
Liza Lapira as Disgust: Guiding Riley's tastes and social sensibilities.
Maya Hawke as Anxiety: A new emotion reflecting Riley's apprehensions during adolescence.
Ayo Edebiri as Envy: Introducing feelings of comparison and desire.
Paul Walter Hauser as Embarrassment: Highlighting Riley's self-conscious moments.
Adèle Exarchopoulos as Ennui: Representing periods of boredom and indifference.
Production Details
The development of Inside Out 2 was officially announced in 2022 during the D23 Expo. Director Kelsey Mann, along with writers Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, aimed to authentically depict the emotional turbulence of adolescence. The production team consulted with psychologists and engaged with groups of teenagers to ensure a truthful representation of teenage emotions. The film premiered at the El Capitan Theatre on June 10, 2024, and was released in the United States on June 14, 2024.
Music
Andrea Datzman composed the film's score, building upon the musical themes established in the original movie. The soundtrack complements the narrative by capturing the emotional highs and lows of Riley's journey through adolescence.
Release and Reception
Upon its release, Inside Out 2 garnered widespread acclaim for its insightful portrayal of teenage emotions and its balance of humor and depth. Critics praised the film's ability to address complex emotional topics in a manner accessible to both children and adults. The film achieved significant box office success, grossing over $1.6 billion worldwide.
Streaming Availability
Following its theatrical run, Inside Out 2 became available for streaming on Disney+ as of September 30, 2024, allowing audiences to revisit or experience the film anew from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
Inside Out 2 offers a thoughtful and entertaining exploration of the adolescent mind, introducing new emotions that resonate with the challenges of growing up. The film continues Pixar's tradition of delivering stories that are both emotionally engaging and thought-provoking, making it a valuable addition to the animated genre.
