Inside Out 2: Anxiety Takes the Lead in a High-Stakes Game of Emotional Chess

The highly anticipated sequel to one of Pixar’s best movies, Inside Out 2, is generating buzz with the recent revelation that the intense thriller Uncut Gems served as a major influence. Director Kelsey Mann and the creative team have shared insights into how this inspiration has shaped the upcoming film, particularly through the introduction of a new emotion and character, Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke.

The new trailer for Inside Out 2 showcases a plethora of new emotions, with Anxiety taking center stage. In a recent interview with Animation Magazine, Kelsey Mann discussed the role of Anxiety in the sequel, highlighting her strategic nature and ability to outmaneuver the other emotions. The dynamic between Anxiety and Joy, voiced by Amy Poehler, is expected to be a highlight of the film, adding a layer of complexity and humor.

Drawing inspiration from A24’s Uncut Gems, the creative team behind Inside Out 2 has taken a bold approach to storytelling, exploring the anxiety associated with puberty. The visual language of the film has been influenced by the tense and high-stakes nature of the thriller, with the animation team using innovative techniques to convey the emotional journey of the characters.

While some original voice actors from the first film will not be returning for the sequel, fans can still look forward to seeing familiar faces like Amy Poehler, Lewis Black, and Phyllis Smith reprising their roles. New voices, including Liza Lapira and Tony Hale, will be taking over the characters of Disgust and Fear.

Inside Out 2 promises to be a captivating exploration of the human mind, with Anxiety at the forefront of a high-stakes game of emotional chess. Set to release on June 14th, the film is not just entertainment but a deep dive into the complexities of emotions. Fans can catch up on the first movie with a Disney+ subscription and mark their calendars for this summer’s must-see animated feature.