First things first, the little heroine in this movie is named Riley, and I have a fourteen year old Granddaughter with the same name. So, to my Riley, this review is dedicated to you. Love, Poppa.
Over $90 million in ticket sales the first two days, and thunderous applause by the audience when the movie ended, confirm this is a first class, entertaining production. Disney/ Pixar combines again for (what will be) a timeless adventure for kids and parents alike for years to come.
The story takes place principally inside the mind of twelve year-old Riley, whose parents pulled up stakes and relocated from Minnesota to San Francisco. The move creates a gamut of emotions for her, including Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger and at times Disgust. Each of these emotions, plus many others, is played by characters only Pixar could create. Amy Poehler is the voice of Joy, the one leading the effort to help Riley live with the changes. One thing leads to another, and suddenly a great adventure begins. And as is often the case, the least likely one emerges as our hero.
Inside Out
Entertainment Rating: ★★★★
Rating: PG: Total family fare, a few exciting and adventurous moments
Possible Oscar Nominations: Best Animated Film
This is a highly creative and colorful film, obviously a huge hit with the early teens and under age groups. I may have been the only adult without a youngster in tow, but that was okay with me. I’ve been fortunate to see some fine movies in the past year, and right up there with all of them are three Disney productions for the kids: “Frozen,” “Cinderella,” and now “Inside Out.” And, if there are no grandkids available, go anyway; you’ll most likely be glad you did.
You may recall my column published on June 4 listed the ten movies I would take with me to a desert island if those were all I had to watch for the duration. I invited you to send me your lists, and did you ever! Thanks to those of you who took the time, I not only enjoyed your lists, but your comments as well. Lots of names were submitted, four tied for first place. They were “Godfather 1,” “Moonstruck,” “Groundhog Day,” and “The Shawshank Redemption.” Runners up were “Jaws,” “Rocky 1,” “Castaway,” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Perhaps my favorite vote was from one of you who listed “My Cousin Vinnie” as their top movie of all time. I love that film, too, Duane. Thanks for submitting it.
