Amy Poehler is overwhelmed with emotion when it comes to Beyoncé. The Emmy Award-winning actress shares her admiration for the superstar’s music and her role in the 2002 film “Austin Powers in Goldmember.” Poehler was particularly touched by Beyoncé’s praise of “Inside Out 2,” which she described as the best movie she has seen this year during a rare interview with GQ.
Poehler, who voices Joy in the Disney/Pixar animated film, humorously notes, “Well, she’s a Virgo, so she knows what she’s talking about,” before expressing her excitement, “Wow! I’m kind of overwhelmed that Beyoncé liked it – I’m going to need a minute. That means a lot. She’s just such a GOAT; she’s incredible at absolutely everything she does.”
Now available for streaming on Disney+ and for purchase on platforms like Apple TV and Prime Video, “Inside Out 2” has achieved remarkable success, grossing approximately $1.7 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing animated film of all time.
Poehler attributes much of the sequel’s triumph to its timely themes. The film continues to explore emotions within the mind of a girl named Riley, now confronted with new teenage feelings, including Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke. Given the cultural shift towards discussing mental health, particularly among Gen Z, Poehler feels audiences were primed for this conversation. “People have just spent the past 10 years really going in and talking about their feelings,” she says, emphasizing the importance of addressing topics like anxiety and toxic positivity.
Addressing parenthood, Poehler mentions that there are relatable themes for those like Beyoncé, a mother of three. She reflects on the challenges parents face, such as allowing loved ones to experience their emotions fully.
Since the release of “Inside Out 2,” Poehler has enjoyed the viewers’ reaction to Pouchy, a talking fanny pack who Joy meets in Riley’s mind. She acknowledges the character’s quirks, saying, “He doesn’t mind opening up his pouch, let’s just say that.” The film also hints at Riley’s Deep Dark Secret, which is revealed to be light-hearted, much to fans’ relief.
Poehler celebrated her 53rd birthday at the star-studded premiere of the Marvel series “Agatha All Along” with former “Parks and Recreation” co-stars Aubrey Plaza, Kathryn Hahn, and Adam Scott. She shares her contentment with aging, saying, “I’ve had a really wonderful year filled with a lot of love.”
As awards season approaches, the actress hopes “Inside Out 2” will be considered for an Academy Award for Best Picture, noting that the last animated film nominated in this category was “Toy Story 3” in 2011.
While there have been no official talks of an “Inside Out 3,” Poehler expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m always ready for more.” She even joked about the possibility of Beyoncé voicing a new emotion in a potential sequel, saying, “From your lips to God’s ears, God, aka Beyoncé.”