In a middle-class family, the deepest emotions unfold like living characters in the mind of a girl named Riley. Throughout her childhood, she has been dominated by joy and happiness, led by a sparkling and bright emotion called Joy. However, when Riley moves from her home in Minnesota to the chaotic city of San Francisco, her emotions spiral into turmoil. Joy tries to keep Riley positive but cannot ignore the growing influence of Sadness, who seems to affect every happy memory they have.
As the emotions struggle to adapt to Riley's new life, Joy and Sadness are unexpectedly swept into the deep corners of her mind. Meanwhile, Fear and Disgust debate whether to protect her from the new experiences that feel scary and unpleasant. In a desperate attempt to restore emotional balance, Joy embarks on an adventure through the vast landscapes of Riley’s mind, discovering that each emotion plays a fundamental role in her personal growth.
The story explores how the mix of emotions defines Riley’s identity and ultimately reminds us that even in sad moments, there is beauty and a need for growth. With touches of humor and heartfelt moments, this film is a charming journey that challenges the perception of emotional well-being and highlights the importance of accepting all our emotions on the path to maturity.