Inside Out 2 is the highest-grossed animated film ever. But behind the scenes, Pixar workers grappled with crunch, layoffs, and an avoidance of LGBTQ+ themes. Our report of the tumultuous making of the sequel to one of the most beloved Pixar films ever.
  • @[email protected]English
    15•2 months ago

    The sequel to Pete Docter’s Oscar-winning 2015 blockbuster is Pixar’s biggest hit in years, and it’s not even close. Inside Out 2 isn’t just Pixar’s highest-grossing film. It’s the highest-grossing animated movie of all time, sitting at a jaw-dropping $1.6 billion at the worldwide box office. It’s a stunning turn of events when considering the studio’s aforementioned recent struggles. And who doesn’t love a redemption story, especially when a brand as beloved and nostalgic as Pixar is involved?

    But for many of the workers behind Inside Out 2, its record-shattering success is more than a little bittersweet. As reported earlier this year, the studio began layoffs affecting 175 workers, or 14% of its staff, in May. And not only are laid-off employees unable to benefit from a bonus for Inside Out 2’s success – some are also recovering from what several sources describe as an “unprecedented” crunch surrounding Inside Out 2.

    Sounds like the usual corporate greed we’re seeing everywhere.