Pixar’s ‘Lava’ Short Before ‘Inside Out’ Packs An Emotional Punch

Pixar’s Inside Out hit theaters on June 19, but the short film Lava, which runs directly before it, is earning as many raves as the feature.

Pixar’s ‘Lava’ Short

Lava tells the story of an Uku, a lonely volcano who, over millions of years, dreams about being sent someone to love. The talking volcano sings a heartfelt melody with the lyrics, “I have a dream — I hope will come true. You’re here with me and I’m here with you, I wish that the earth steered the sky up above will send me someone to love.” The tragic and emotional lyrics of the song from the volcano’s point of view had viewers reaching for tissues, wanting to reach out and hug the lonely volcano.

Directed by Pete Docter, Inside Out is set in the mind of a young girl, Riley Anderson (Kaitlyn Dias), where five emotions—Joy (Amy Poehler), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), Fear (Bill Hader) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith)—try to lead her through life as she moves with her family to a new city.

Docter first began developing Inside Out after noticing changes in his daughter’s personality as she grew older. The film’s producers consulted numerous psychologists and researched the mind in preparation for building its story.

Take a look at a short clip of the “Lava” short.

Inside Out grossed $90 million in its first weekend—the best opening for an original Pixar title ever. Watch Inside Out in theaters — and don’t forget to bring your tissues!