The two Inside Out films from Pixar are two of our favourite features. They're about a child and are aimed at children but their sheer psychological wisdom means that adults too come away with a lot to think about
In the 2015 film, 11 year old Riley copes not only with moving house to the other side of America but also the approach of puberty. Her core emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust – suddenly take centre stage in her life.
Fast forward to the 2024 film and Riley is a teenager, with Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, Ennui and Nostalgia entering the fray, meaning she is constantly torn about what to think, what to feel, who to be.
Both films were developed with strong and accurate psychology consultation, and the result is a wonderful explanation of how our emotions can leave us deeply conflicted. And not only when they disagree but also when some emotions are ignored, judged and exiled.
The plot is clear, but the meaning goes deeper. Are we feeling torn because we are exiling an important emotion? Do we feel conflicted because we're ashamed of emotions that are utterly normal and in many ways useful? How can society – as well as Riley – come to peace with the range of emotions that we feel?
If you don't know a child you can see these films with, just watch them alone. In either case! take tissues.
Inside Out 2014. Inside Out 2 2024. Both by Pixar/Disney. Director: Peter Docter, co-director Ronnie del Carmen on Inside Out 1
Available with Disney+ subscription in most international market or for purchase or rental on various digital platforms.