Inside Out 2: A Sequel That Falls Short of Emotional Depth
Inside Out 2 display at El Capitan Theatre
The highly anticipated sequel to Pixar’s Inside Out has finally arrived, but unfortunately, it lacks the emotional heart of the original. The film tries to tackle the challenges of puberty, but it falls short of truly exploring the complexities of this critical phase of life.
The story picks up where the first film left off, with Riley Anderson (voiced by Amy Poehler) now facing the challenges of middle school. Her emotions, including Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, are still present, but they’re thrown off balance by the introduction of new emotions: Envy, Ennui, Embarrassment, and Anxiety.
“Girl… Girl… Girl…” - The boy’s emotions run rampant as Riley gives him a smile before skating off to her hockey match.
The film’s plot revolves around Riley’s struggle to fit in with the older kids at a weekend hockey camp, but it lacks the creative ideas and emotional depth that made the original so compelling. The story feels like a rehash of familiar themes, without truly exploring the chaos and uncertainty of being 13.
 Riley on the ice rink
One of the most disappointing aspects of the film is its failure to address the consequences of Riley’s actions. When she sneaks into the coach’s office, there are no repercussions, and her friends seem surprisingly passive as they watch her gravitate towards the older hockey players.
The film also raises questions about Riley’s “crush” on the rising-senior hockey star Valentina “Val” Ortiz. While Riley’s behavior towards Val is certainly awkward, it’s unclear whether this is evidence of a genuine crush or simply a case of hero worship.
 Riley gushing over Val
The film’s lack of emotional depth is further highlighted by its failure to address the significant differences between freshmen and seniors in high school. As someone who attended a Catholic high school with a strong athletic program, I can attest that the dynamics between these two groups are worlds apart.
 High school hockey players
In conclusion, Inside Out 2 is a disappointing sequel that fails to live up to the creative and emotional standards set by the original. While it tries to tackle the challenges of puberty, it ultimately falls short of truly exploring the complexities of this critical phase of life.
Inside Out 2 poster
