Inside Out 2: Exploring the New Emotions in Pixar’s Sequel

Ever feel overwhelmed by a flood of emotions? That’s the challenge Pixar faced in creating “Inside Out 2.”

The original 2015 film introduced us to five key emotions within the mind of tween Riley, including the effervescent Joy, voiced by Amy Poehler. As Riley transitions into her teenage years, director Kelsey Mann initially added nine new emotions for the sequel, but soon realized it was too much. He ultimately focused on a select few, led by Anxiety (Maya Hawke).

Anxiety Takes Center Stage

When Riley turns 13, puberty hits, and Anxiety steps in, stressing over impressing her hockey coach. Mann explains that Anxiety’s arrival is about protecting Riley, even though she becomes the antagonist, challenging Joy and the core emotions. Anxiety, depicted with frizzy orange hair, believes she can better handle Riley’s emotional turmoil, having spent her time in the background critiquing Joy’s methods.

The Smaller but Significant Envy (Inside Out 2)

Next up is Envy, a teal-haired character who is desperate to fit in and be part of the action. Envy’s small stature is by design, just tall enough to reach the console buttons on her tiptoes, symbolizing her perpetual struggle to measure up.

Embarrassment: The Silent Observer

Embarrassment is a big, pink character who often hides in his hoodie and speaks little. Mann drew inspiration from his own daughter’s nervousness about public speaking. Embarrassment begins to question the new emotions’ takeover, forming a special bond with Sadness (Phyllis Smith).

Ennui: The Eye-Rolling Teen

Ennui, a purple-tinged character with a French accent, embodies teenage indifference. Always lounging with her remote, she’s a master of apathy. Mann wanted Joy to feel intimidated by Ennui’s sophistication, including her bilingual nature, highlighting the evolving complexity of Riley’s emotions.

A Nostalgic Cameo

While not a main character, Nostalgia makes a brief appearance, hinting at the future emotions Riley will encounter as she grows older. Though sent back by Anxiety, her cameo serves as a nod to emotions that will eventually take the stage.

Conclusion

“Inside Out 2” delves deeper into Riley’s emotional landscape with new characters like Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui. These additions reflect the nuanced challenges of teenage life, providing a richer, more complex narrative. As Riley navigates her teen years, these evolved emotions offer a fresh perspective on growing up.

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