The folks at Pixar have developed quite a positive reputation, and rightfully so. With titles such as Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc., and The Incredibles under its belt, Pixar animation has attracted a loyal following not from some form of naïve devotion, but by producing quality animated films. The Toy Story franchise has, possibly more than any other Disney associated work, become a truly cherished member of the Disney film family. With the recent addition of the Toy Story Mania ride at Disney’s California Adventure theme park, park patrons and Disney fans alike have certainly been in the “mode” for a new film following everyone’s favorite clan of collectible toys. The question, however, was never whether fans wanted a third Toy Story film, but rather, whether or not it would live up to the standard set by the first two. It did. It really did.
The plot behind Toy Story 3 is one of understandable concern for any childhood toy. Andy, the toys’ owner, is leaving for college. Although Andy’s prime toy-playing days are long gone, Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang are determined to be noticed by their young adult owner, in hopes of resonating a kind of nostalgic affection. The ultimate goal is to “convince” Andy to take the toys with him to college. Through a series of accidental misfortunes, the toys end up at Sunnyside Daycare, a place that initially seems the perfect destination for affection-seeking toys, but ends up a “newcomers” worst nightmare. All the while, Woody is determined to return to Andy, the boy to whom he has always belonged.
You would think that Toy Story 3 is a film exclusively suited for young children. This is not the case. Pixar’s jaw-dropping animation and wonderful storytelling abilities remain active in this third installment of a truly beloved franchise, and makes the film entertaining for all ages. Although (sadly) the Disney label has recently become indicative of sub par cinematic entertainment, Pixar’s reputation looks to be trending upward, consistently. Again, this trend reflects nothing but the quality of Pixar’s movies.
The qualities of the writing and voice acting in Toy Story 3 certainly contribute to its financial success and critical reception (I’m almost shocked this film doesn’t have a “100 % fresh” rating on rottentomatoes). The story is intricately composed both in major actions and brilliant subtleties (some excellent references to “old school” toys). Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and the rest of the cast breathe life into their characters, regardless of 100 spoken lines or merely a few. Fans of the series will appreciate seeing all of the iconic toys back in action, but will also be impressed by the seamless integration of new, memorable characters (Plotso, the film’s villain, is especially noteworthy). As I read reviews of this film from both professional critics and “average” moviegoers, I noticed quite a few individuals from both sects claiming that they had shed some tears at points. Frankly, I was curious whether these accounts were exaggerations… they are not. Toy Story 3 demonstrates versatility in being able to provide laugh-out-loud entertainment (Don Juan Buzz was especially entertaining) as well as resonate sincere emotional responses from audience members (I can make this claim based on my observation that there was probably one person in my full screening not crying at some point).
I thought this film was wonderful, and frankly, I was never a true devoted fan of the Toy Story franchise. Beyond my appreciation for this film as a critic, however, I am pleased that devoted Toy Story fans have a “threequal” to be proud of. I find it impressive that Pixar continues to produce quality entertainment. It should be especially noted that quality Pixar films don’t come about sporadically after three or four missed attempts. Each and every film is a keeper.
Rating: 9/10
P.S. The short film attached to the feature, titled Day and Night, is fantastic as well.
© 2010 Brent Bracamontes
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