Inside Out 2 Was Originally Set to Introduce 9 New Emotions
Director Kelsey Mann reveals that the much-anticipated sequel, Inside Out 2, originally aimed to introduce nine new emotions to Riley’s mind. As Riley navigates puberty and her teenage years, the sequel brings five new emotions into the brain’s command center, complementing the original core emotions.
The film continues to follow the familiar voices of Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Liza Lapira replacing Mindy Kaling), and Fear (Tony Hale replacing Bill Hader). The new additions are Anxiety (Maya Hawke), Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser), Envy (Ayo Edebiri), and Ennui (Adèle Exarchopoulos). Additionally, Nostalgia (June Squibb) makes occasional appearances.
Director Mann shared with Entertainment Weekly his initial vision for the film: “I started with nine new emotions showing up. It was ridiculous. There were so many. I wanted Joy to feel overwhelmed.”
This creative decision underscores the complexities of Riley’s emotional landscape as she enters a new phase of her life. The introduction of these new emotions promises to enrich the narrative and provide audiences with a deeper understanding of the character’s inner world.
Inside Out 2 aims to deliver the same heartfelt and humorous exploration of emotions that made the original film a beloved hit. With the addition of these new characters, viewers can expect a fresh and engaging take on Riley’s journey through adolescence.