Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’ is a masterful continuation of Riley’s story. Now, it delves into the tumultuous waters of teenagehood by introducing a new emotion: anxiety. Voiced by Maya Hawke, Anxiety brings a fresh and poignant layer to the emotional dynamics within Riley’s mind, perfectly encapsulating the heightened fears and uncertainties of adolescence.
Having attended the screening with my thirteen-year-old granddaughter, who loved the film, I can attest to the movie’s ability to resonate deeply with young viewers and their parents. The quality of animation is as impressive as ever, bringing Riley’s vibrant and chaotic inner world to life with stunning detail. The depiction of the hockey community and games is not only fun but also realistically portrayed, adding a dynamic backdrop to Riley’s internal struggles.
The film arrives at a critical moment amid concerns regarding the teen mental health crisis; with schools overwhelmed and families deeply concerned, ‘Inside Out 2’ skates into this environment with sensitivity and insight. The sequel follows Riley as she navigates the pressures of a competitive sports camp, dealing with the impending separation from her best friends as they head to different high schools and struggling with puberty and a whirlwind of emotions. Anxiety steps in, initially appearing as a necessary force to help Riley cope with these challenges. This portrayal of anxiety’s role in a teenager’s life is not only insightful but also deeply relatable, offering a sense of understanding and validation to both parents and teens.
Anxiety differentiates herself from Fear, explaining, “He keeps Riley safe from things she can see. My job is to keep her safe from things she can’t see.” This nuanced portrayal is both a revelation and a relief for parents who have witnessed their children grapple with anxiety. Anxiety’s presence at the central console of Riley’s brain, orchestrating plans to ensure her success, is a scenario that many parents will find all too familiar.
The film further expands on the lore of the “headquarters,” introducing new emotions such as Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui, which accompany the onset of puberty. These latest additions, combined with the deep-seated beliefs and credos that shape Riley’s “sense of self,” create a rich and complex emotional landscape. One particularly striking scene shows Anxiety breaking the thread of Riley’s belief, “I’m a good person,” sending it deep into the subconscious. This moment underscores the profound impact that anxiety can have on a teenager’s identity and self-worth.
Anxiety’s plan to transform Riley into an entirely different person to navigate the challenges of hockey camp is both poignant and distressingly relatable. When Joy (Amy Poehler) and the other original emotions attempt to intervene, Anxiety’s assertion, “Let’s change everything about you,” will resonate with many parents who have seen their teens struggle with identity and self-perception.
‘Inside Out 2’ succeeds in balancing these heavy themes with moments of humor and warmth. The camaraderie among the emotions, the endearing antics of Joy and her companions, and the heartfelt interactions within Riley’s mind counterbalance the story’s more serious elements. This emotional rollercoaster is designed to keep the audience engaged and connected, making the movie a truly immersive experience.
‘Inside Out 2’ is a beautifully crafted film that addresses the complexities of teenage anxiety with empathy and insight. It offers valuable perspectives for both parents and teens, wrapped in a visually stunning and emotionally engaging package. The movie’s ability to captivate and move its audience is evident in my granddaughter’s enthusiastic response, serving as a testament to its profound impact.