Maya Hawke’s portrayal of Anxiety in “Inside Out 2” is already resonating deeply with audiences, even before the film’s release. The sequel to Pixar’s 2015 hit “Inside Out” introduces a new set of emotions as Riley, now 13, navigates the tumultuous waters of adolescence. Among these new emotions, Anxiety, voiced by Hawke, stands out as particularly relatable.
In the first “Inside Out,” we were introduced to Riley, an 11-year-old girl whose emotions—Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness—controlled her actions. The film beautifully illustrated the importance of all emotions, even the seemingly negative ones like Sadness. “Inside Out 2” takes this concept further by adding new emotions such as Ennui, Embarrassment, Envy, Nostalgia, and Anxiety, reflecting the more complex emotional landscape of a teenager.
Anxiety, as personified by Hawke, is not just a villain in the traditional sense. Instead, the character is given depth and nuance, making it clear that anxiety, while challenging, is not inherently evil. This portrayal is crucial for many who live with anxiety, as it acknowledges the emotion’s dual nature. Anxiety can be debilitating, but it also serves a protective function, helping individuals anticipate and prepare for potential setbacks.
Hawke’s performance captures this complexity. In the trailer, Anxiety appears disheveled, with hair standing up in a tuft and eyes darting around nervously. This visual representation, combined with Hawke’s rapid-fire delivery, makes Anxiety instantly recognizable and relatable. “Oh, I’m SORRY,” she says hurriedly, encapsulating the frantic energy that many people with anxiety experience daily.
The film’s director, Kelsey Mann, and writers Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, understand that anxiety is not just a negative force. It can drive people to be meticulous and prepared, as seen in Riley’s obsessive practice sessions for hockey. However, the downside is that it can also lead to sleepless nights and a constant state of worry, as Riley experiences.
Anxiety’s impact on Riley is profound. Before its arrival, Riley is confident and kind, but anxiety introduces self-doubt and a loss of her core values. She becomes unpredictable and even dangerous, suggesting that unchecked anxiety can lead to harmful behaviors. This portrayal aligns with psychological findings that link anxiety and aggression, particularly in adolescents.
Yet, the film also shows that anxiety is a form of caring. Riley’s emotions, including Anxiety, act as her caregivers. Joy, for instance, exhibits maternal concern, worrying whenever Riley forms unhappy memories. This dynamic illustrates that anxiety, while challenging, stems from a place of deep care and concern.
Hawke’s Anxiety is not just a character; it’s a reflection of the modern world’s pressures. Young people today face unprecedented levels of anxiety due to various factors, including social media, climate change, and political instability. Pixar’s decision to include Anxiety as a central character shows their awareness of these issues and their commitment to addressing them in a way that resonates with audiences.
Fans have already expressed their connection to Hawke’s Anxiety. Comments like “I too have anxiety and a lot of baggage. 5 stars,” and “10/10, notes,” highlight the character’s immediate relatability. This response suggests that “Inside Out 2” will not only entertain but also provide a sense of validation and understanding for those who struggle with anxiety.
Pixar’s ability to personify complex emotions in a relatable way is one of their greatest strengths. “Inside Out 2” promises to continue this tradition, offering insights into the emotional lives of teenagers. By giving Anxiety a voice through Maya Hawke, the film acknowledges the challenges of growing up while also highlighting the importance of understanding and accepting all our emotions.
In a world where anxiety is increasingly common, Hawke’s portrayal offers a much-needed reminder that this emotion, while difficult, is a part of who we are. It can drive us to be better prepared and more caring, even as it challenges us. “Inside Out 2” is set to be a film that not only entertains but also provides valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of our emotional lives.
