Pixar has such a strong record with its output, with Inside Out being a particularly shiny jewel in that crown. However, aside from Toy Story 2 it's rare for one of their sequels to rival the original. Thankfully though I think Inside Out 2 does a great job of recapturing the magic and creating a worthy successor to Inside Out.
We pick up the story with Riley as she approaches high school, which brings with it a whole new bunch of emotions. Enter Embarrassment, Ennui, Envy, and everyone's favourite Anxiety, as they shake up Riley's world and clash with returning emotions Anger, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Joy.
Much like the first film, the story of this movie is really sweet, special and heartwarming. There is so much to take away for people of all ages about how to navigate our emotions, and how all of our experiences and feelings shape us. I don't think it is as much of a tearjerker as the first film, but it builds to an emotional climax that is really endearing and sweet.
As always with Pixar films the imaginative elements are brilliant. The world inside Riley's head was so beautifully crafted in the first film, and this is extended in fantastic ways in this film. We explore new areas all of which are well designed and beautifully animated.
The humour throughout the film is really solid. As you'd expect from a Pixar film there are jokes for all ages which will keep kids and adults entertained.
In terms of the voice acting I was super impressed. A couple of changes in the main characters from the first film was a shame but the new actors performed well. Particularly impressive however was Maya Hawke who gives a terrific performance as Anxiety. Amy Poehler is of course fantastic.
All of the above means that if you enjoyed Inside Out then you will love this follow up too. It captures all of the wonderful magic of the first film, and even though it doesn't quite have the emotional punch that the first film did, it still has a heartwarming and important message, great acting, and just brilliant vibes throughout!
We pick up the story with Riley as she approaches high school, which brings with it a whole new bunch of emotions. Enter Embarrassment, Ennui, Envy, and everyone's favourite Anxiety, as they shake up Riley's world and clash with returning emotions Anger, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Joy.
Much like the first film, the story of this movie is really sweet, special and heartwarming. There is so much to take away for people of all ages about how to navigate our emotions, and how all of our experiences and feelings shape us. I don't think it is as much of a tearjerker as the first film, but it builds to an emotional climax that is really endearing and sweet.
As always with Pixar films the imaginative elements are brilliant. The world inside Riley's head was so beautifully crafted in the first film, and this is extended in fantastic ways in this film. We explore new areas all of which are well designed and beautifully animated.
The humour throughout the film is really solid. As you'd expect from a Pixar film there are jokes for all ages which will keep kids and adults entertained.
In terms of the voice acting I was super impressed. A couple of changes in the main characters from the first film was a shame but the new actors performed well. Particularly impressive however was Maya Hawke who gives a terrific performance as Anxiety. Amy Poehler is of course fantastic.
All of the above means that if you enjoyed Inside Out then you will love this follow up too. It captures all of the wonderful magic of the first film, and even though it doesn't quite have the emotional punch that the first film did, it still has a heartwarming and important message, great acting, and just brilliant vibes throughout!