“INSIDE OUT” FILM BETTER THAN TOY STORY? MENTAL HEALTH WITH FIVE STARS

Did you hear comedian Peter Helliar on “The Project” claim that the latest Disney Pixar film, “Inside Out” is better than “Toy Story”? Gasps and shock from the panel!

 

Wherever you look, people are raving about this film. From highbrow film reviewers to mental health professionals and children; all have something good to say about this film.

 

“The film is based in Headquarters, the control centre inside 11-year-old Riley’s mind. Five Emotions are hard at work, led by light-hearted optimist Joy, whose mission is to make sure Riley stays happy. Fear heads up safety, Anger ensures all is fair and Disgust prevents Riley from getting poisoned – both physically and socially. Sadness isn’t exactly sure what her role is, and frankly, neither is anyone else.” – Disney Pixar

 

This film appeals to so many because it is clever, funny and looks fantastic. It is a gorgeous looking cartoon that makes you laugh and pulls heartstrings at the same time. The humour is multi leveled so there is in your face comedy for the kids and also subtle adult humour.

 

The very clever thing about “Inside Out” is how it introduces ideas about mental health in a very easy to understand way. For example, every emotion has a purpose. Even though some might be neglected or overused, even sadness has a role in our mental health.

 

Inside Out shows how important relationships are to our mental health. When Riley had to leave her home and life she loved to a new home it was the connection with her parents that was so important. Riley’s memories in the film are shown as glowing pearls and these power different parts of Riley’s personality. These positive memories don’t prevent tough times but make it easier to deal with them when they happen.

 

Riley shows us how important it is not to dismiss emotions. Mental health awareness is not about avoiding the tough emotions. No one feels happy all the time. Sadness is an important emotion for Riley. When she is feeling sadness and has support, it helps to find solutions to problems she faces.

 

There are many places to find support if dealing with some of these tougher feelings. Beyond Blue and Lifeline are worth contacting. Also for youth there is Headspace a great place offering free counselling and support services for young people. Whether at the cinema or on DVD, with or without kids, this movie is worth checking out.

 

Fear: “All right! We did not die today, I call that an unqualified success.”