Pixar Animation Studiosis expanding its creative horizons as it ventures into television with an upcoming series based on the acclaimed 2015 film Inside Out. The new series is entitledDream Productionsand will explore the imaginative universe of Riley’s dreams.
According toBloomberg, the announcement ofDream Productionscame from Jim Morris, president of Pixar. He shared insights on Pixar’s strategy, mentioning the studio’s upcoming projects and its efforts to enhance its offers on Disney+. This initiative begins with Win or Lose, Pixar’s first series slated for release later this year, which chronicles the experiences of various players on a little league team as they advance to the finals.
Additionally, Morris hinted at potential sequels for fan favorites likeThe IncrediblesandFinding Nemo. However, decisions on these sequels will depend on the performance of Pixar’s initial TV ventures. He expressed a strong preference for distinguishing between Pixar’s cinematic releases and its streaming content, stating a desire to reserve feature films for theatrical release while exploring series formats exclusively for Disney+.
Inside Out 2
Inside Out 2 is the sequel to the 2015 original film, which starred a young girl named Riley with a head full of emotions. - literally. With Amy Pohler as Joy, Bill Hader as fear, Mindy Kaling as Disgust, Phyllis Smith as Sadness, and Lewis Black as Anger, the all-star cast brought to life the emotions that adolescents face as they grow, change, and adapt to new situations. This sequel, currently in development, will bring Amy Pohler back as Joy, with Riley, now a teenager.
Inside Out 2 Writer Leaves Fans Guess on the Return of Bing Bong
Meanwhile,Inside Out 2co-screenwriter Dave Holstein skillfully dodged inquiries regarding the potential return of Bing Bong, during an interview with Empire. The beloved imaginary friend from the original Inside Out was voiced by Richard Kind. Bing Bong left a lasting impression with one of Pixar’s most touching scenes, where he heroically sacrifices himself for Riley’s happiness.
Holstein’s evasive response has only fueled further curiosity among the Inside Out fandom. Given Bing Bong’s nature as a creation of Riley’s mind, the door to his return isn’t entirely closed, as imaginative possibilities in the Pixar universe are limitless. Enthusiasts have been scouring trailers and promotional materials for any hint or easter egg that might suggest Bing Bong’s comeback, clinging to the hope that Riley’s nostalgic memories could revive her colorful companion.
However, during the interview, when pressed about the feasibility of Bing Bong’s return, Holstein chose to remain non-committal, saying,
I’ll leave that open-ended.
Watch Inside Out 2 trailer below:
Inside Out 2 Leaves Out Shame to Keep the Sequel’s Tone Light and Fun
While fans are hoping for the return of a well-loved character,Inside Out 2director Kelsey Mann disclosed the reason behindexcluding the emotion of Shame from the upcoming sequel. While the originalInside Outwas celebrated for its creative portrayal of a young girl’s psyche through personified emotions, the sequel’s creative team decided to omit one particularly somber emotion.
Shame, depicted in shades of grey and designed with a notably downcast demeanor, was initially set to be part of Riley’s emotional lineup. However, as the sequel’s development unfolded, it became apparent that Shame’s inclusion was skewing the movie too heavily towards a darker emotional tone. This was problematic, particularly for the film’s intended family-friendly audience. Director Mann said:
“It was not fun to watch. It was not fun. It was too heavy. You know when you see a good movie and you’re like, ‘Man that was a great movie.’ You want to see it again? ‘No, not really.’ There are movies like that."
This Inside Out 2 Fan Theory Points Toward a Secret Fifth New Emotion
The trailer for Inside Out 2 featured four new emotions, but fans found clues implying the existence of a secret fifth one.
Mann expressed concern that Shame’s presence made the film less enjoyable to watch. The director pointed out his desire to create films that both appeal deeply and also invite repeated viewing.
I want to make a movie that’s really meaningful and when you’re asked, ‘Do you want to see that movie again?’ You say, ‘Yes!’
Mann’s philosophy centers on producing movies that leave audiences with a sense of uplift and satisfaction, eager for another viewing. The director candidly remarked on the importance of maintaining a balance that appeals to both children and adults.
