Inside Out 2: A Worthy Successor to a Beloved Original

As a film critic, I’ve had the pleasure of watching some of the most iconic movies of our time. But few have resonated with me on a deeper level than Pixar’s Inside Out. The original film’s unique blend of humor, heart, and psychological insight made it an instant classic. So, when I heard that a sequel was in the works, I was both excited and apprehensive. Could the filmmakers recapture the magic of the first film, or would they fall prey to the pitfalls of sequelitis?

I’m thrilled to report that Inside Out 2 is a worthy successor to the original. The film picks up where we left off, with Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman) navigating the challenges of adolescence. As she enters puberty, her emotions are in turmoil, and her mental HQ is undergoing a radical makeover. It’s a clever and relatable premise, and the filmmakers milk it for all it’s worth.

Riley’s emotional landscape is about to get a whole lot more complicated.

The new emotions on the block, led by Anxiety (voiced by Maya Hawke), bring a fresh dynamic to the table. They’re the perfect foil to Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), who’s still trying to keep Riley’s spirits high. The interplay between the old and new emotions is hilarious and poignant, often at the same time.

The old guard meets the new kids on the block.

One of the standout aspects of Inside Out 2 is its clever satire. The film takes aim at video game characters and kids’ TV shows, and the results are laugh-out-loud funny. But beneath the humor, the screenplay celebrates kindness, loyalty, and forgiveness – values that will resonate with viewers of all ages.

Riley finds her tribe on the hockey team.

As Riley navigates the challenges of adolescence, she’s forced to confront the darker aspects of her own psyche. It’s a journey that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable. The film’s themes of self-acceptance and empathy are more relevant now than ever.

Riley’s emotional landscape is a work in progress.

Inside Out 2 is a triumph, a film that will delight audiences of all ages. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always hope. So, grab some popcorn, gather the family, and get ready to experience the emotional rollercoaster of the year.

Rating: A-II (adults and adolescents)

Classification: PG (parental guidance suggested)

** runtime:** 1h 45m

Genre: Animated Comedy-Drama

Director: Kelsey Mann

Screenplay: Meg LeFauve, Dave Holstein

Voice Cast: Kensington Tallman, Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke

Release Date: 2023