One narrative segment from Inside Out resonated very deeply with me. As a young boy, my father got cross with his parents and decided to leave home. Into his satchel went two very important items: toy pearl handle pistols. Something similar occurs during Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen's film. As such, there are more layers and thought-provoking tangents than the typical animated offering.

It was a bold concept presenting a “children’s movie” about emotion. For Riley (voiced by Kaitlyn Dias), the process of growing up, making decisions and navigating her school life (including friendships) isn't simple. To help her find the right path, there are five key moods: Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Anger (Lewis Black). The latter happens to be my favourite. He's a red hued, imposing soul trapped inside a diminutive mass. When flames shoot from his head, it creates an instant laugh-out-loud conduit.

Although there's much to admire including Michael Giacchino's soundtrack, Inside Out can feel a little crazy at times. Put that down to sheer creative inspiration. Honestly, there were moments when my laughter couldn't be contained and it felt like I was being a nuisance to fellow audience members. Thankfully, no one said anything!

For those who love musicals, there's some singing too. If that doesn't whet your appetite, then the seven minute animated short entitled Lava -- revealed prior to Inside Out -- definitely will.

(Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and rated "PG" for mild thematic elements and some action.)