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Inside Out 2: Out of My Mind for Watching or Worth the Emotions?

Alright folks, I recently had the pleasure of seeing “Inside Out 2”. Let’s get this out of the way: I was super pumped for this sequel, but hesitantly optimistic given Disney’s recent track record. How did it fare out? Let’s dive in.

Almost There, But Not Quite Mind-Blowing

“Inside Out 2” brings back our beloved emotional crew – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear – along with some new faces that shake up Riley’s teenage mind. The gang’s all here, and their banter is just as entertaining as ever. But while the first “Inside Out” was a masterclass in making us feel all the feels, this one doesn’t quite hit the same high notes.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a good time. Imagine going to your favorite ice cream shop, ordering the double fudge sundae, but they give you the single scoop instead. It’s still delicious, but you’re left thinking, “This could have been epic.” That’s “Inside Out 2” in a nutshell – satisfying, but you know it had the potential to be something more.

Image by Ster-Kinekor

Tackling Tough Topics... with Kid Gloves

Pixar is known for weaving deep, complex themes into their films, making them accessible to kids and thought-provoking for adults. “Inside Out 2” dives into the messy waters of adolescence, tackling identity, growing pains, and the angst that comes with it. They handle these themes with their usual gentle touch – never pushing too far, keeping everything palatable for the young audience.

But here’s the thing: I wanted them to take a few more risks. It’s like watching a friend’s daring balancing act, and they’re just staying on the safe side. Come on, Pixar, throw in a few more wobbles and see where it takes you!

Image by ComicBook.com

Anxiety – The Unfair Villain

Here’s where the movie left me scratching my head – Anxiety is painted as the villain. Anxiety is as much a part of our emotional toolkit as Joy or Sadness. It’s that little voice that keeps us on our toes, making sure we double-check if we locked the door or study a bit harder for that big test.

Making Anxiety the bad guy sends a mixed message, especially for teens already wrestling with these feelings. In a film that’s all about embracing the complexity of our emotions, this portrayal feels like a step back. It’s like saying, “Hey, this normal, everyday struggle? Yeah, it’s the enemy.” Not exactly the kind of message we need right now.

Image by The New York Times

Bringing on the Feels

Despite its shortcomings, “Inside Out 2” still managed to tug at my heartstrings. There were moments that had me tearing up. The film beautifully captures the bittersweet reality of growing up and the inevitable changes that come with it. Pixar knows how to hit those emotional notes just right, even if it didn’t completely knock me out this time.

Image by Pixar Post

Old Meets New – A Blend That Works

One of the film’s highlights is how it integrates the old crew with the new characters. Each new emotion brings a fresh twist, and their interactions with our old favorites are heartwarming, hilarious, unexpected, and even at times, a little fearful. It’s like meeting up with your childhood friends who’ve brought along some cool new buddies. You might not know the new ones yet, but they fit right in and add something special to the mix.


Image by InsideTheMagic


Final Thoughts

So, should you rush out to see “Inside Out 2”? I don’t know about rush out, but was it worth the price of admission? Yes, easily. Pixar, for the first time in a long time, has made another classic. It’s a heartfelt, funny, and visually stunning film that continues Pixar’s tradition of exploring human emotions in a way that’s both deep and entertaining. It might not eclipse the original, but it’s still a solid ride that offers plenty of laughs and a few tear-jerking moments.


Pros:

- Seamless blend of beloved old characters with intriguing new ones.
- Humor and creativity are on par with the first film.
- Thoughtful metaphors for the complexities of human thought.
- Successfully captures the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.

Cons:

- Plays it safe with its themes, missing out on deeper exploration.
- Villainizes the Anxiety character, sending mixed messages about mental health.
- Lacks some of the magic and innovation that made the original unforgettable.

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