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“Inside Out 2” is a film with minute stakes, just like its predecessor. And also like its predecessor, it’s for the better. Kelsey Mann creates a hearty and relatable tale for the younger demographic. Despite narrative issues, this is a great family film and a solid sequel that is nowhere near the likes of the first, but still manages to provide the heart and soul of what a good Pixar movie should be - a magical time at the cinemas.
It’s obvious at times that this film plays it safe when it comes to its narrative in general, and this is noticeable from the first act. A quick recap of the emotions, Riley’s brain and what she’s been up to since the first “Inside Out”, and from here on it’s easy to predict exactly what is going to happen in the film. And most people will guess it exactly correct from the inciting incident onwards. It also borrows plot points from its predecessor, so at times it doesn’t always feel fresh. Though what is new and interesting to see is Riley’s emotional development as a person who seems to be going out of her comfort zone through gaining more opportunities with her personal hobbies and academic life. All of this, and of course (the relatable experience) puberty strikes too. It’s a lot for Riley, and it’s definitely what kids going into their teenage years will experience, with the film doing a great job of expressing this and the tough experiences that children go through just like the first movie.
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| Maya Hawke as "Anxiety' in Inside Out 2 |
Along with these changes come new emotions: Anxiety, Embarrassment and Envy - who change the game up in headquarters and make things tough for Joy and the OG’s. The stakes are raised a bit higher than the first, though it’s not for long. Anxiety is the standout new emotion by far, the rest lack any depth or nuance, but even her treachery fails to end in a believable way. Instead, it’s the development of our known emotions that stand out. There is actually more characterization done to these emotions, especially Joy, who faces upheavals that cause her to question what she really stands for and what her emotion truly means. The OG’s learn to grow into one big guardian figure for Riley as the movie progresses, and it’s something that the adults can find satisfying too. As for the adults, the humor caters for both their demographic and the target audience of children perfectly through nostalgic cameos and more, crafting a perfect example of a great amalgamation of humor and heart. In some ways, especially when it comes to age-related narrative catering, “Inside Out 2” can be seen as an example of what will keep audiences and families happy when turning up to the cinema. Even Riley’s arc in this film is something that the adults or teenagers in the audience can relate to as well as it’s genuinely meaningful and a reflection of real-life troubles. Though, some of the human interactions and decision-making in this film can be questioned and does show hints of lazy writing, but it doesn’t detract from the fact that this is all well-mannered and meaningful, and that’s what I love most about “Inside Out 2”.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the movie is sublime. The animation has leveled up since the first movie, and it would be insane to watch in 3D. As for our voice actors, the whole cast does a sublime job once again - and even newcomers such as Maya Hawke shine (even though some don’t have much to say).
Ultimately, “Inside Out 2” is a joy to watch. It does have its narrative issues, but it doesn’t detract from the fact that this is a smartly crafted movie, one that, similarly to the first, truthfully depicts some of a child’s emotional upheavals in an entertaining fashion that caters for all audiences and demographics.
Overall Score: 7.6/10 - RECOMMEND.
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