As a child grows from the day they are born, they begin to explore a new wave of emotions. Even as adults, we often struggle to explain what happens inside our minds. What can we expect from a child learning to navigate a world of complex emotions? How do we explain to them that it’s okay to go through certain stages because it helps define who they are and who they will become? But how true is this? Do we know which emotions help us become the right person in the future?

Two years pass, and Riley turns 13. She has best friends, loves playing hockey, and has loving parents who try to help her find her place in the world. As Riley enters puberty, new emotions begin to take over her mind: anxiety, envy, ennui, and embarrassment. It takes just one night to demolish and reconstruct her emotions to the point where joy is no longer the main feeling dictating Riley’s emotions daily.

Written by Meg LeFauve, Dave Holstein, and Kelsey Mann and directed by Kelsey Mann, “Inside Out 2” is one of the most significant animated films in recent years. Indeed, you might say there are still great films out there for children, but none create a language that helps adults communicate better with their little ones while also teaching parents what they may have long forgotten. It’s not easy to paint an image of the future or delve into a child’s mind to better understand their emotions. “Inside Out 2” is like a child psychologist – it goes straight to the heart and achieves results no university degree can provide.

The film doesn’t shy away from showing the darker sides of growing up. Riley’s experience with anxiety and embarrassment is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, offering a relatable depiction of the challenges faced by many adolescents. These emotions are not just obstacles but essential components of Riley’s journey towards self-discovery and emotional maturity.

“Inside Out 2” also explores the dynamic between Riley and her parents. The film highlights the importance of parental support and understanding during this critical period of development. Riley’s parents are portrayed as loving and supportive, yet also struggling to understand the changes their daughter is going through. This portrayal underscores the film’s message that parents and children can learn and grow together.

Without revealing too much about what happens in “Inside Out 2,” it’s worth checking out for yourself. However, there is one particular scene that showcases the power of storytelling to the point of giving you goosebumps. You can gather all the “Mission Impossible” stunts together, but none can achieve a blockbuster moment the way “Inside Out 2” does. The moments culminate in a storm of emotions that decide who takes the lead in defining Riley’s future.

In conclusion, “Inside Out 2” teaches us not to let anger, anxiety, embarrassment, or fear dictate who we become. We cannot be angry all the time just because it suits the moment we are in. Anxiety or fear should not dictate our next steps, potentially ruining our entire lives. Our feelings and emotions cannot navigate us – not now, not ever. “Inside Out 2” presents this brilliantly. It hits the mark perfectly.

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