Inner Workings (2016): In-depth Exploration

About Inner Workings

"Inner Workings" is a 2016 American 3D hand-drawn/computer-animated adventure short film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The film tells the story of the internal struggle between a man's pragmatic, logical side and his free-spirited, adventurous half.

The plot revolves around Paul, an ordinary man who follows a monotonous, predictable daily routine. However, his Heart, Brain, and other organs have different plans. Throughout the story, Paul, with the help of his Heart, learns to find happiness, balance, and appreciate life's simple moments.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Leo Matsuda and produced by Sean Lurie. The concept of "Inner Workings" was inspired by a blend of Walt Disney's "Reason and Emotion" (1943) and PIXAR's "Inside Out" (2015). Matsuda decided to present the film in a unique way by combining 3D computer animation with traditional 2D designs to depict the contrast between Paul's world and his internal body.

Actors

• Raymond S. Persi as Paul: Persi did an exceptional job portraying Paul's monotonous life and his longing for change.
• Tucker Gilmore as Brain: Gilmore conveys the Brain's role as a worrywart, ensuring Paul's safety and urging routine.
• Terri Douglas as Heart: Douglas gives a vibrant performance, effectively capturing the Heart’s desire for excitement and enjoyment.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was first shown to the public as the opening short for Moana in 2016.
• It was based partially on director Leo Matsuda's own upbringing in a Japanese-Brazilian household where two extreme cultural sides - tackling logic and discipline versus passion and celebration - existed.
• Leo Matsuda and the "Inner Workings" team had a real human heart at the studio for artistic and anatomical reference.

Awards

Though the film received positive reviews, it didn't win any awards.

Quotes

• "Brain, remember. It could always be worse." - Paul
• "Yes! Freedom!” - Heart
• "If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun." - Unknown

Music, Soundtrack

• The music for "Inner Workings" was composed by Ludwig Göransson.
• The main song in the film is "California Loco" by MISSIO.
• Göransson’s composition brilliantly marries the film's theme of duality and delivers an apt musical narrative.