“INSIDE OUT: EMOTION & ITS ROLE IN OUR LIVES & ITS IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH” – Movie Review From Mental Health Perspective.

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      Written by Keerthi Aithal, Psychologist, Ph.no: +919980476255                                         Read time 5 minutes


               
  • Inside out is a Disney Pixar animated film directed by Pete Docter & produced by Jonas Rivera, p.g.a. The movie name “INSIDE OUT” emphasizes that we experience the external world through our inner reality (i.e. our internal state of mind). The movie has beautifully showcased the intricate workings of the human mind, provides insights into how our emotional experiences shape us & impacts our mental health.
  • The movie unfolds through the eyes of Riley & her emotions - Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear & Disgust.
  • The “Headquarters” serves as the control center of Riley’s mind, where her emotions interact & influence her actions, representing the complex interplay of emotions within the human psyche.
  • The movie highlights the importance & purpose of each emotion & finding balance among all emotions, even those we might perceive as negative is paramount for the overall growth & wellbeing of an individual.
  • In the movie, the emotion ‘Joy’ strives to keep Riley happy, motivated & fosters a sense of wellbeing. ‘Sadness’, initially shunned & dismissed, comes off as to play a critical role in emotional healing & growth.
  • Riley’s crucial moments & her meaningful experiences of her life shape her personality islands like Family, Friendship & Goofball Island which forms her core memories. These islands symbolize the foundation of our identity & values which acts like compass bearings, pointing our life in the chosen directions.
  • Riley's move to a new city was a major transition of her life which makes her to feel disoriented & shakes her emotional stability that brings a shift in her core memories & crumbling of her islands. The film reassures us that life’s upheavals can be challenging, & could feel like a roller coaster ride, & its normal to feel confused, aimless & hopeless. With patience & endurance we can rebuild & restore our inner balance.
  • Riley’s emotion ‘Joy’ is shown initially suppressing ‘Sadness’, but sadness surprises every other emotion by comforting Riley’s imaginary friend Bing Bong, who grieves the loss of his connection with her. This scene from the movie is a profound reminder that acknowledging, validating & accepting pain caused due to the difficult emotions is essential for healing, rather than suppressing & avoiding it. Emotional balance can be restored through acceptance, which fosters growth & resilience.
  • The movie emphasizes the power of connection, & how open communication can mend emotional rifts & strengthen bonds. Riley’s emotional breakdown & tearful confession to her parents serves as a gentle reminder that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step toward healing & illustrates the power of expressing feelings & seeking support.  

The key takeaway from the movie ‘Inside out’ is that
  • Every emotion has a role in our lives. They guide us, teach us & make us unique from others.
  • Joy gives us hope, sadness fosters empathy, & anger, fear & disgust protect us in their own ways.
  • We can find harmony & strength by embracing the full spectrum of our emotions.
  • Our emotions are not our enemies, rather they are our allies. Together they shape our journey through challenges & triumphs.

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