As a 9-year-old when the first 'Toy Story' movie came out in 1995, the movie thrilled and enthralled me. Buzz Lightyear, Rex, Mr. Potato Head and of course our pal Woody, made the animated feature mystical and special and exposed a new, secret world to children. Why couldn't our toys be walking, talking creatures replete with unique personalities while we weren't playing with them? Doesn't that almost make sense, to some extent? Aside from the concept, which was ingenious, the story crafted in that first picture kept everyone involved. The script was sharp and funny, filled with plenty of humor for children and adults alike. 'Toy Story 2' followed in suit, but it wasn't until 'Toy Story 3' that Pixar, the company that produced the trilogy, outdid themselves.
The story picks up with Andy now a young man, ready to enter college. While age has changed Andy, the toys are still the same hoping Andy will still play with them. When Andy has to clean his room, it's the attic, the trash or donation time for the toys. The toys are accidentally donated to a daycare center, leading to a new life that some accept, and others (Woody) just can't handle.
The scenes at the daycare are hilarious and the new characters are excellent. Part of what makes these movies so witty and enjoyable is how the creators make personalities for the toys that completely fit what you would imagine, i.e. Barbie's kinda ditzy. I couldn't help but laugh out loud at tons of the jokes, most of which are made for people older than 16. And yes, there are scenes where I did get that "hurty feeling" in my throat, holding back the urge to cry (say what you will, but its tough!). The voices, script and all the characters are excellent and really, it's hard to find anything negative to say. I'm eager to see it again and I highly recommend it. After all, didn't you have toys you left home to go off to college?
9 out of 10 stars
Here's the trailer:
