Inside Out 2: What We Know So Far

After nearly a decade, Pixar is preparing to return to the emotionally rich world of “Inside Out” with the highly anticipated sequel, “Inside Out 2.” This exciting announcement was initially made at D23 2022, Disney’s biennial fan expo, and it has sent waves of excitement through fans of the original film, which is still celebrated as one of Pixar’s finest creations. The original “Inside Out” received critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Scheduled to be one of Disney’s major releases for 2024, “Inside Out 2” will venture back into the intricate and colorful landscape of the human mind, specifically focusing on the emotional turmoil that comes with being a teenager. While detailed information about the sequel remains limited, we do have some exciting tidbits to share.

Release Date and Potential Delays:

“Inside Out 2” was initially slated for a vague “Summer 2024” release when first announced at D23 2022. However, eager fans didn’t have to wait long for a specific release date, as it was later confirmed that the film would hit theaters on June 14, 2024. This release date, almost a decade after the original film’s debut, coincides with the much-anticipated return to the world of Riley and her emotions.

Nevertheless, it’s essential to note that the ongoing writers’ and actors’ strikes in Hollywood have impacted the pre-production cycle of “Inside Out 2.” Should these labor disputes persist and hinder the film’s ability to move into full production promptly, it’s possible that the release date could be subject to delay. While fans are hopeful for a timely release, they should remain prepared for possible adjustments to the schedule.

Returning Cast and Characters:

Several key cast members from the original film will reprise their roles in “Inside Out 2,” ensuring continuity and familiarity for fans. These confirmed actors and their respective characters include:

• Amy Poehler as Joy: The central emotion representing happiness in Riley’s mind.
• Phyllis Smith as Sadness: The counterpart to Joy, representing sadness.
• Lewis Black as Anger: The fiery emotion known for outbursts and outrage.
• Diane Lane as Mom (Jillian): Riley’s mother, navigating her family’s move to San Francisco.

However, the return of Kaitlyn Dias, who voiced Riley in the original film, remains unconfirmed. Given that “Inside Out 2” explores Riley’s life as a teenager, the character of Riley will be going through significant physical, mental, and emotional changes as she matures.

Notable Absences:

Unfortunately, “Inside Out 2” will also see the absence of two beloved emotions from the original film: Disgust and Fear. Mindy Kaling, who voiced Disgust, and Bill Hader, who portrayed Fear, will not be returning for the sequel. Reports suggest that contractual disputes played a role in their absence, as Amy Poehler negotiated a notably higher compensation package compared to the rest of the main cast.

While Bill Hader has not publicly commented on his decision, Mindy Kaling confirmed her non-participation in the film, stating that she is “not working on it” at this time. It’s worth noting that the situation may evolve, and there remains a possibility of her returning if agreements are reached.

New Emotions and a Teenage Perspective:

As “Inside Out 2” delves into Riley’s teenage years, audiences can anticipate the introduction of new emotions to her mental landscape. The original film primarily explored five core emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear. With the sequel, Riley’s evolving emotional experiences will likely introduce additional emotions, further enriching the narrative.

Pixar CEO Peter Docter hinted at this expansion, stating that “a bunch more emotions get to come in” in “Inside Out 2.” This expansion promises to add depth and complexity to Riley’s emotional journey, allowing viewers to connect with her struggles and triumphs on a deeper level.

Plot and Themes:

The plot of “Inside Out 2” will shift its focus from Riley as a preteen to her life as a teenager. In an interview, Amy Poehler revealed that the sequel will explore the idea introduced at the end of the original film, where the characters hesitated to press the “puberty button.” Poehler explained that “Inside Out 2” will indeed press that button, immersing viewers in the emotional whirlwind of adolescence.

The film aims to provide an authentic portrayal of the challenges faced during the teenage years, capturing the tumultuous journey of self-discovery, identity, and relationships. “Inside Out 2” will venture into Riley’s “teen brain,” exposing the emotional chaos that resides within as she grapples with complex feelings and questions of belonging.

Poehler emphasized that this phase of life is characterized by moments of uncertainty, self-doubt, and intense emotions. It’s a time of exploration, making mistakes, and taking bold risks, all of which contribute to the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by teenagers. The title of the film, according to a product description for the Disney/Pixar Inside Out 2 Middle Grade Novel, has been aptly labeled an “emotional rollercoaster,” promising exciting adventures within Riley’s mind, with both familiar and new characters.

Trailer Expectations:

While no trailer for “Inside Out 2” has been released to the public yet, fans can anticipate one to drop in the near future. Pixar typically launches trailers alongside the theatrical release of their other films. However, given that Pixar’s next feature, “Elio,” is set to premiere in March 2024, this timing could be somewhat late for a first trailer if “Inside Out 2” adheres to its June 2024 release date.

One plausible scenario is that Disney and Pixar will unveil the first look at “Inside Out 2” in November. This would align with the release of Walt Disney Animation’s highly anticipated animated musical, “Wish,” on November 22, 2023. This animated feature could provide the perfect opportunity to debut the trailer for the upcoming Pixar sequel, further fueling anticipation among fans.

In summary, “Inside Out 2” promises to revisit the beloved characters and explore new emotional territory as it delves into Riley’s teenage years. With returning cast members, the addition of new emotions, and an authentic portrayal of the challenges of adolescence, this sequel is poised to capture hearts and emotions once again. As fans eagerly await its release, the film’s first trailer is expected to offer a glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster that awaits them.

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