In his speech to the 2011 graduating class of the University of Pennsylvania, two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington discussed the importance of failure. He noted, “Thomas Edison conducted 1000 failed experiments. Did you know that? I didn’t know that because the 1001st was the light bulb?” I was reminded of that compelling speech during a recent screening of the new Pixar comedy Inside Out.
It wasn’t because the movie was a failed experiment— it’s, in fact, a rousing success— but because the film dealt maturely with the idea that failures, disappointments and sadness are often necessary obstacles that we all must face in order to find success and joy.
Like many of Pixar’s earlier films, Inside Out is awash in delightful colors and characters....