Since its premiere this summer, “Inside Out 2″ has become one of Pixar’s greatest successes. The film earned $1,690,686,629 worldwide and received over 3.5 million streams during its first week on Disney+.
The sequel follows Riley as she grapples with new emotions: Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui. This narrative unfolds during a week at hockey camp, where Riley worries about fitting in.
The film has a powerful emotional impact. It tells a story that resonates with many teenagers, especially the ones who were kids when the original came out. Pim Pungsuchonsunthron, a student who saw the movie in theatres said, “I love and hate the new emotions at the same time. They remind me that I grew up already. Don’t put on mascara while watching like my friend did.”
The movie addresses the complexities of anxiety well. One of the most notable lines is when Anxiety says, “I was just trying to protect her.” This reminds us that anxiety, at its core, isn’t a bad thing. It’s the alarm system in your head that’s trying to keep you safe. According to author Erik Kain, the film reminds us that “Anxiety and Embarrassment and Envy can make us act without thinking, not out of cruelty, but out of self-preservation.”
This exploration is filled with comedic relief, such as the infamous “Sar-chasam” and smelly reality of puberty. There’s also a sense of irony with the emotions. One example is when Anger generates the thoughtful scenario “What if we win and buy flowers for the losing team?” and Embarrasmnet’s spurt of excitement at the end of the film.
The movie is enhanced by colorful visuals and effects. These details add to the story’s profoundness. Longtime Disney fan Morgan Monguel says, “I thought the movie was cool and I like the new emotions and new ways of animation.”