So many kids are seeing ” Inside Out 2″, but ironically, this animated movie is becoming a quick favourite among adults too.
If you’ve ever found yourself in the grip of anxiety, you know how it can feel like a relentless storm, churning up chaos within you. The struggle to manage this emotional turmoil is all too real, and sometimes, it feels like you’re the only one battling this tempest. Enter “Inside Out 2,” Pixar’s brilliant sequel that delves deep into the human psyche, offering a relatable and insightful look at anxiety, our emotional landscape and our complex belief systems. This movie is a must-watch for every adult, providing not only entertainment but also a profound understanding of our emotional landscape.
The Storm of Anxiety
In “Inside Out 2,” we journey into the mind of a young girl, where emotions are brought to life as distinct characters. One of the standout elements of the film is how it portrays anxiety as a persistent storm, capturing the essence of this often debilitating emotion. Let’s explore some of the scenarios depicted in the movie that many of us can relate to:
- Anticipatory Anxiety: Have you ever found yourself worrying about things that haven’t even happened yet? The movie illustrates this beautifully, showing the character’s mind racing with ‘what if’ scenarios. This anticipatory anxiety can be paralyzing, making it difficult to focus on the present.
- Social Anxiety: The fear of being judged or not fitting in is something many of us have experienced. “Inside Out 2” showcases moments where the character feels the weight of social expectations, highlighting how anxiety can make social interactions feel overwhelming and isolating.
- Panic Attacks: One of the most powerful scenes in the film is the depiction of a panic attack. The sudden, intense fear and the sense of losing control are portrayed with striking accuracy. This visual representation helps demystify panic attacks, making them more understandable for those who haven’t experienced them and more relatable for those who have.
The Complexity of Our Belief Systems
What I actually found fascinating about “Inside Out 2” is that it dives into the intricacies of our belief systems. Often, we think of our self-beliefs in extremes: we’re either confident or insecure, happy or sad. However, the movie shows that our beliefs about ourselves are far more nuanced.
- A Mixture of Beliefs: The film demonstrates that we hold a blend of positive and negative beliefs about ourselves. One moment, the character feels capable and strong; the next, she is filled with doubt. This mixture is a natural part of being human and recognizing it can help us approach our sense of self with more compassion.
- Embracing Complexity: “Inside Out 2” encourages us to move beyond black-and-white thinking. By integrating our positive and negative self-beliefs, we can develop a more balanced and realistic view of ourselves. This message is particularly empowering for those dealing with anxiety, as it validates the complexity of our emotions and beliefs.
Bottling Up Feelings? They have it covered !
Although the message can be easily missed, the process of bottling up emotions is depicted in a way that highlights its potential dangers:
- Suppressing Emotions: The movie shows how putting on a brave face or trying to ignore negative feelings can lead to a buildup of emotional pressure. We see the character pushing down feelings of sadness, anxiety, and frustration, thinking that ignoring them will make them disappear.
- Internal Conflict: Bottling up emotions creates internal conflict, as the character struggles to reconcile their true feelings with their outward demeanor. This conflict often leads to a sense of disconnect and confusion, which is vividly portrayed in the movie.
- Emotional Explosion: Eventually, the repressed emotions find a way to break free, often resulting in an emotional explosion or crisis. In “Inside Out 2,” this is depicted as a dramatic and intense release of pent-up feelings, underscoring how ignoring our emotions can lead to bigger problems down the road.
Why Every Adult Should Watch Inside Out 2
“Inside Out 2” is not just a movie for children; it’s a cinematic experience that resonates deeply with adults, especially those struggling with anxiety. Here’s why it’s worth your time:
- Relatability: The film’s portrayal of anxiety and the internal chaos it causes is incredibly relatable. It offers a visual and emotional language that can help you better understand and articulate your own experiences.
- Validation: Seeing your struggles depicted on screen can be incredibly validating. It reminds you that you’re not alone in your feelings and that anxiety is a common human experience.
- Insight: The movie provides valuable insights into the complexity of our belief systems. It encourages self-reflection and growth, helping you see that it’s okay to have conflicting emotions and that these do not define your worth.