Pixar’s Inside Out 2 has been widely celebrated not only by audiences worldwide but also by critics and major film institutions, garnering an impressive roster of awards and nominations during the 2024 and 2025 awards season. The sequel builds on the legacy of the beloved original with a deeper, more nuanced exploration of adolescent emotions, mental health, and identity, all conveyed through Pixar’s signature animation excellence.
This comprehensive article examines the significant accolades Inside Out 2 received, from globally renowned awards like the Academy Awards and Annie Awards to critics’ circles and cultural honors. It also uncovers what these achievements mean for Pixar, the animation genre, and mental health representation in mainstream cinema.
Academy Awards (Oscars) 2025
A pinnacle of cinematic recognition, the 97th Academy Awards nominated Inside Out 2 for Best Animated Feature. This nomination underscored the film’s excellence in storytelling, technical achievement,
and its courageous handling of themes such as anxiety and adolescent mental health—topics rarely explored in family films with such depth.
Director Kelsey Mann and producer Mark Nielsen were lauded for their leadership in crafting a film that balances whimsy and seriousness, a feat that resonated deeply with both Academy voters and audiences globally.
Annie Awards 2025
The Annie Awards, often regarded as the preeminent honors in animation, acknowledged Inside Out 2 with multiple prestigious nominations including:
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Best Animated Feature
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Outstanding Achievement in Character Animation (Aviv Mano)
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Outstanding Achievement in Character Design (Deanna Marsigliese)
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Outstanding Achievement in Editorial (Maurissa Horwitz and team)
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Outstanding Achievement in Production Design
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Outstanding Achievement in Voice Acting (Maya Hawke as Anxiety)
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Outstanding Achievement in Writing (Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein)
Though fierce competition existed, these nods reflected industry-wide respect for the film’s artistic and narrative craft.
BAFTA Awards
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts nominated Inside Out 2 for Best Animated Film, contributing to the sequel’s international accolades. This recognition cemented Pixar’s impact beyond its home market and highlighted the film’s global emotional relevance.
Critics’ Choice and Other Honors
Critics’ groups across the globe enthusiastically included Inside Out 2 in their top animated film lists, with nominations and awards from the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards, Houston Film Critics Society, Chicago Film Critics Association, and more.
Voice actors received particular attention with Maya Hawke and Amy Poehler garnering multiple nominations for their compelling performances. Sound design and original score by Andrea Datzman were also honored with nominations and awards, emphasizing the film’s holistic excellence.
Cultural Recognition and Mental Health Advocacy Awards
Demonstrating a broader social impact, Inside Out 2 won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Animated Motion Picture, highlighting its cultural significance and diverse representation.
The film’s empathetic portrayal of mental health themes resonated with advocacy groups, educational communities, and families,
elevating its profile beyond entertainment into the realm of social influence.
Technical and Artistic Accolades
Beyond animation and voice acting, Inside Out 2 received commendations in areas such as sound mixing, sound editing, and production design. These elements contributed substantially to the immersive emotional experience that defines Pixar’s storytelling approach.
Particularly noteworthy was the film’s nomination for Outstanding Visual Effects in an Animated Feature at the Visual Effects Society Awards, showcasing the blend of artistry and cutting-edge technology.
The Creative Team Behind the Success
The recognition bestowed upon Inside Out 2 reflects the vision and craft of the filmmakers and creative professionals behind the scenes. Writers Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein were praised for deftly balancing humor and emotional complexity, while directors and animators brought fresh dimensions to Riley’s evolving emotional world.
Voice actors, production designers, editors, composers,
and technical specialists collectively shaped a cinematic experience that garnered both popular and critical acclaim.
Future Prospects: A Promising Franchise Continuation
Following the sequel’s success and extensive award recognition, discussions of a potential Inside Out 3 are underway at Pixar. The continued enthusiasm from fans, critics,
and industry insiders suggests a promising future for this emotionally insightful franchise.
Read More: Cultural Impact of Inside Out 2: Emotional Literacy and Global Resonance
Conclusion: A Celebrated Milestone in Animation
Inside Out 2 comprehensive slate of awards and nominations exemplifies its position as a standout film in contemporary animation. The film’s successes highlight its quality, cultural relevance,
and contribution to normalizing discussions on emotional health and adolescence.
For Pixar, the accolades solidify their leadership in creating animated works that are as emotionally profound as they are visually stunning.
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