Maya Hawke Breaks Down Inside Out 2’s Anxiety Attack Scene with Pixar Animators, Director & More

In this exclusive breakdown, the cast and crew of ‘Inside Out 2’ take us inside one of the film’s most powerful moments—the anxiety attack scene. This deep dive explores how every department, from animation to cinematography, worked together to bring Riley’s overwhelming emotions to life in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Maya Hawke (the voice of Anxiety) unpacks the unique vocal approach she brought to the character, capturing the jittery, intrusive energy of a mind in overdrive. Character designer Deanna Marsigliese reveals how Anxiety’s spindly frame, darting eyes, and layered textures were meticulously crafted to visually embody the feeling of unease.

Directors of Photography Adam Habib and Jonathan Pytko break down the lighting and camera choices that heighten the intensity of the moment, while animator Robb Denovan shares how subtle movements helped make Anxiety feel all too real. Editor Maurissa Horwitz explains the pacing and cut choices that mirror the spiraling, out-of-control sensation of an anxiety attack while director Kelsey Mann gets emotional as he reflects on the personal connection he has to the scene, sharing how his own experiences shaped its authenticity.

Watch as the team reveals how every artistic choice, from Maya Hawke’s voice work to the final frame, was carefully crafted to make Inside Out 2’s depiction of anxiety both breathtaking and deeply relatable.

‘Inside Out 2’ is now playing in theaters.

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