It is no revelation that numerous children’s films often masquerade as deeply philosophical or existentially provoking films suited to adult audiences; Inside Out is a prime example of that. Released in 2015, it follows the five emotions that govern the mind of a young girl, Riley, and how she negotiates her life after moving to San Francisco. Although the film contains a big-name cast including Amy Poehler (Joy), Bill Hader (Fear), and Mindy Kaling (Disgust), it is perhaps the inclusion of multiple psychologists brought in by the producers that makes it so touching for the audience. Their inclusion lines the narrative with factual findings about how human emotions work and this realism teaches the audience about themselves and how they interact with the world. We can identify ourselves in Riley and in the emotions that govern her, allowing an investment in the story that makes us laugh and cry in equal measure (RIP Bing Bong).
Watch the trailer below:
