Inside Out 2, the latest installment from Pixar, brings back teen Riley as she navigates the complexities of growing up. In a standout moment, Riley senses that one of her friends is withholding information. A dive into her mind reveals our familiar emotions in action, particularly Disgust, voiced by Mindy Kaling, who humorously analyzes her friend’s expressions, showcasing the film’s clever use of psychology.
Dacher Keltner, a professor of psychology at UC Berkeley, has collaborated with Pixar for over a decade, advising them on the science of emotions. In a recent episode of UC Berkeley’s Academic Review video series, he elaborated on how the film reflects real scientific principles. Keltner has dedicated much of his career to studying facial expressions associated with emotions, particularly embarrassment, and shares insights on the emotional nuances displayed in the film.
The film’s playful approach to scientific research has led to significant additions in the emotional cast, with new characters representing Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment joining the original five emotions from the first movie. Keltner highlights that while he initially suggested a broader range of emotions, the film’s characters have expanded organically to reflect Riley’s growth in her teenage years.
As the characters evolve, so too does the portrayal of mental health and emotional understanding, making Inside Out 2 not only entertaining but also relevant. With Anxiety at the forefront, the film captures the challenges and pressures teens face, resonating with audiences as it highlights the importance of acknowledging and managing emotional experiences.
In summary, Inside Out 2 continues to innovate by intertwining emotion and science, contributing to an ongoing conversation about mental health and the complexity of human feelings, especially during adolescence. As viewers engage with these concepts, the film fosters a deeper understanding of themselves and each other.
This thoughtful exploration of emotions in the film suggests a hopeful narrative, encouraging audiences to embrace their feelings, acknowledge their complexities, and find strength in vulnerability.