Kellan’s review published on Letterboxd:
A step down from its predecessor, Inside Out 2, is not an unnecessary sequel - there is so much material the Pixar team can delve into when it comes to animating the inner workings of the mind that it will always be entertaining. However, some charm is lost this time around.
While Sadness was an effective and productive antagonist in the first film that brought humor as you saw yourself in the reflection, Anxiety as the villain here makes for an unenjoyable time, with no redeeming qualities to root for. And as Anxiety makes you, well, anxious, as you watch the action inside her mind, Riley’s actions in the outside world make you cringe. Obviously, anxiety and embarrassment are core pillars of being a teen, but they make for an unpleasant viewing experience at times.
The story is redeemed by the details put into each character’s development and the exploration of the depths of Riley’s mind, which continues to stand as one of Pixar’s greatest set pieces.