Sequels usually have a reputation as not being as good as the first. However, INSIDE OUT 2 may be one of the exceptions. Inside Out 2 is a more mature Pixar film, but it resonates with so many people as they introduce new emotions into the mix of Riley’s thoughts. Is Inside Out 2 kid friendly? Here’s what parents need to know in this Inside Out 2 Parents Guide.
Inside Out 2 Parents Guide
Riley is now a teenager and is excited to be going to a hockey skills camp with her two best friends Grace and Bree right before high school. It was an exclusive invite and could give them an opportunity to impress the high school hockey coach. However, on the ride over she finds out Bree and Grace won’t be attending the same high school next year. Anxiety kicks in and Riley must now navigate new emotions while trying to impress the best player at the camp -Val. After all, she doesn’t want to be alone in high school.
However, Anxiety and the other new emotions also kick out Joy, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness while trying to create a new Riley. But will the pressure be too much?
Age Rating: Why is Inside Out 2 Rated PG?
Inside Out 2 is rated PG by the MPAA for thematic elements which means some content may not be suitable for all ages.
Language
There is no profanity in Inside Out 2.
Mature Content: Is Inside Out 2 Ok for Kids?
Inside Out 2 has no sexual content, except for flirtation and mention of crushes.
However, the content is more mature than Inside Out as it addresses new emotions often related to puberty. They even have a puberty button on the console to show Riley is going through it.
At one point it shows Riley having an anxiety or panic attack. Riley must go through feelings of loneliness, anger, sadness, etc.
Inside Out 2 is a coming-of-age story in which we watch Riley grow up and all the emotions that come with that. She is now experiencing the emotions of being self-aware and self-conscious of what others think of her. Some kids may not understand the changes Riley is going through.
Anger expresses wanting to punch someone. A character says, “Please kill me.”
Is Inside Out 2 Appropriate for Kids Under 10?
You can expect to dig deep into your emotions during Inside Out 2. Inside Out 2 is kid friendly for kids ages 10 and older. Can kids younger than that watch? Absolutely. I would just encourage parents to watch with younger kids to have conversations about any questions they might have.
At about an hour and a half, it’s the right length for kids, but it’s not as funny as the first film. So little ones may not be as engaged. You still have some light-heartedness and there are definite laughs, but the heart is what’s important.
Inside Out 2 beautifully addresses the complexities of growing up and the new emotions one feels as they become more aware of what people think of them. Sometimes a dominant emotion tries to shove out another, but at the end of the day, there’s room for them all. We are who we are and that is what makes us special.
Director Kelsey Mann did the research to explore how teen girls think and drew from his own experience a a father. This is what will resonate with audiences. If you’re a parent to teens, you’ve been there. If you’ve ever been a teen, you’ve been there. And this can help explain just how messy life can be and the thoughts swirling in your head in a more simplistic and humorous way.
The animation is gorgeous and the pacing works. The 2nd act may be a little slow, but the brilliant writing keeps the audience engaged. Anxiety takes center stage in the film and Maya Hawke does an excellent job of being a likable villain. She does have a bit of a villain arc.
This film is so relatable to teens and families in general, teaching compassion and empathy and giving a peek into what may be going on in a person’s head around you. Frankly, I felt seen. Families, please watch Inside Out 2 together. And then talk about it.
Inside Out 2 is one of Pixar’s best and a welcome addition to the summer movie slate. Welcome back, Pixar.
