Average At Best

Rating: 3/10 (14 August 2015)

Inside Out and Mad Max Fury Road currently stand as two of the highest rated films of the year. Critical reviews shine as well as audience ratings, however only one belongs to the title of highest rated film of 2015 and that is Mad Max Fury Road, not Inside Out. Pixar's latest feature is likable and decent, but not as amazing as people are saying it is.
Inside Out lacks a consistent flow of chuckles, I smiled and nodded more as there are never any truly laugh out loud moments. This hour and a half feature felt longer, as the themes of depression completely padded out any potential comedy. However, I can't deny the voice work as it is excellent. Amy Poehler's unabashed optimism shone through even the most downbeat moments, Bill Hader is as entertaining as ever shouting and squealing with fear, and Mindy Kaling is sassy and does a great job as disgust, in fact I couldn't imagine anyone else fitted to it. For me, and my mates who I saw it with, found that Phyllis Smith who voiced sadness was the funniest and most effective. The drained feeling in her voice and lack of happiness serves the plot greatly throughout, especially in the ending.
The animation is vibrant, and whilst there are fine details seen in the people side of the film, I felt there was a lack of detail and depth inside the character heads scenes, which is where the majority of the film is set. It's far from Pixar's best work, yet people are hailing it as the finest since Toy Story. I just don't see it, I got a lot of stick from my mates and lecturers for not enjoying it as much as they did but tough, Inside Out is not all it's cracked up to be. The concept is really cool, and this film is admittedly perfect for both kids and old viewers, exploring the darker sides of emotions and what can go on in a persons head but what really lacks is a strong heart and comedy.