Inside Out (Rated A)
Cast: Amy Poehler, Mindy Kaling, Phyllis Smith, Lewis Black
Genre: Animated Fantasy Comedy-Drama
Dwight's Rating: 3 Stars
It's quite interesting that over the past couple of decades, some of the deepest, most introspective and most thought-provoking movies have been animated. Those who dismiss these as mere "cartoons", and refuse to watch them (gasp!), are missing out on some of the most compelling cinematic experiences these days. It can be argued that as far back as 1942's "Bambi", animated movies have been emotionally moving experiences. But things really kicked into overdrive with the original "Toy Story" in 1995. And now, more than ever, what may on the surface appear to be "kid stuff" -- replete with goofy looking characters, talking inanimate objects, and sometimes even silly songs -- in many cases, have been better able than some live-action productions to hold up a mirror to our society and social practices and constructs.
Modern day classics like "Shrek" have subtly taught us lessons about love and friendship, and the errors of judging people based on their appearance. Similar themes in "How To Train Your Dragon" tackle pre-conceived notions and stereotypes about those we've been historically conditioned to regard as enemies. Those two stellar films were both DreamWorks Animation productions. But it's been Disney's Pixar Animation Studios that has set the industry standard, with a long-list of groundbreaking productions like the aforementioned "Toy Story" and its sequels, and other beloved, sensitive flicks like "Finding Nemo", "The Incredibles", "Monsters, Inc." and "Ratatouille".
Pixar has found an uncanny way of tapping into some very powerful human emotions and fears. In "Up" it addressed getting old and being alone in a mature yet entertaining manner, hitherto unimaginable in an animated feature. What on paper could/should have been a disaster, "WALL-E" became a brilliant examination and warning of the dangers and impact of human waste and consumerism on the environment. And I dare you to admit you didn't shed a tear during at least one of the "Toy Story" franchise films, and their tales of being cast aside and replaced by the one you love.
With "Inside Out", the Pixar animation geniuses are at it again. This time, we are getting insight into our innermost thoughts and feelings, particularly those of notoriously moody pre-teen girls.
Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) is a happy 11-year old girl from Minnesota, but her world is turned upside-down when she and her parents move to San Francisco. Riley's emotions -- led by Joy (Amy Poehler) -- try to guide her through this major change. However, the stress of the move bring another one of Riley's emotions, Sadness (Phyllis Smith) to the forefront, which eventually leads to Joy and Sadness being cast aside, leaving only Anger, Fear and Disgust in charge of Riley's decisions and actions.
We learn that all these major emotions are stationed at "Headquarters" and work together to ensure that Riley remains balanced and happy. The screenwriters have crafted a complex scenario for these inner-workings, and seem to have considered everything. You may find yourself frequently nodding in agreement when you recognize similar traits in your own personality.
While "Inside Out" was released in 3-D, Galleria Cinemas seems to have completely abandoned this format, and is only showing the 2-D version. Luckily, it's still quite vibrant and detailed, and the film doesn't really need gimmicks like 3-D. The storyline, and especially the performances, are more than strong enough.
Those performances include some perfectly cast voices. There are standouts like Mindy Kaling as Disgust. And there could be no better choice for the character Anger than Lewis Black, who has long promoted himself as the angriest comedian around.
But the real heart of the movie is the spectacularly peppy-sounding Poehler, who is simply perfect as Joy. And Phyllis Smith of TV's "The Office" (US), effectively uses her trademark dry and droll voice as Sadness.
Children will be drawn to "Inside Out" by the captivating animation, and the pre-teens in the showing I attended seemed to enjoy themselves. But as is usually the case with Pixar films, it's the adults who will most appreciate and enjoy it. Get to the theater early for the traditional short-film before the feature; "Lava" is beautifully animated and touching, and is sure to be on the list of Academy Award-nominated shorts next year. And be sure to stay for the "Inside Out" credits, as well.
"Inside Out" had a history-making weekend at the US box office, opening at $91 million. That makes it the biggest ever opening for an original (non-sequel) film -- beating the previous record-holder, "Avatar". That still wasn't enough to knock the Tyrannosaurus-size "Jurassic World" off its perch at number one.
Nevertheless, "Inside Out" is a great film, helping Pixar redeem itself after a couple of lackluster ("Cars 2") or underwhelming ("Brave") releases. It may not quite be in the same "total masterpiece" league as "Up" or "Toy Story 3", but it is a wonderfully illuminating experience.
o Dwight Strachan is the host/producer of " Morning Blend" on Guardian Radio. He is a television producer and writer, and an avid TV history and film buff. Email dwight@nasguard.com and follow him on twitter @morningblend969.
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