Lotso Good Buzz

A review of Toy Story 3.

There are some things you can always count on: You will always spill something dark and sticky on white pants; you will always be hungry half an hour after eating Chinese food; and you will always, always leave the theater smiling (and probably humming) when you go to see a Pixar movie. Toy Story 3, written by Michael Arndt (Little Miss Sunshine), John Lasseter (Cars, Toy Story 2, Toy Story), Andrew Stanton (WALL-E, Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc.) and Lee Unkrich (Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story 2) and directed by Lee Unkrich, continues Pixar’s unblemished streak of original, clever and downright moving films.

Set about ten years after Toy Story 2 (which approximates real time, as it was released in 1999), Toy Story 3 continues the story of Andy and his toys, following the consequences for all of them of Andy’s imminent departure for college. Because Andy must pack up his entire room to make way for little sister Molly to move in, Andy is confronted with the difficult decision of what to do with toys that no longer plays with, but which still hold a great deal of sentimental value. And by the same token, his toys, corralled as always by steadfast leader Woody, must survive a dangerous adventure into the unexpectedly hostile territory of a local daycare center. Themes of duty, loyalty and selflessness play prominently amidst the amusing hijinx of old favorites Buzz Lightyear, the Potato Heads, Rex, Slinky Dog, new friends Ken and Chatter Telephone and many, many others.

I should provide a disclaimer, in case you couldn’t already tell, that I am an unabashed lover of Pixar movies. As far as I’m concerned, Up was the best film of 2009. I think that the artists and writers at Pixar handle story and character better than just about any filmmakers -- including both animated and live action films. Toy Story 3 is yet another example of their ability to create sophisticated stories that entertain at multiple levels and appeal to children and adults of all ages. There are great callbacks, winks and nods to adults and some of the funniest “potty” humor -- which will appeal to both sixty and six-year-olds.

The vocal talent employed for every character is outstanding. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen infuse Woody and Buzz with warmth and heart and inhabit them, never allowing their own personas to overshadow the characters. Newcomer-to-the-franchise Ned Beatty is terrific as Lotso, as is everyone new (Michael Keaton as Ken, Timothy Dalton as Mr. Pricklepants) and old (Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head, Estelle Harris as Mrs. Potato Head, Wallace Shawn as Rex, John Ratzenberger as Hamm, etc. etc. etc.). The animation is vibrant and exciting. In particular, the specificity of the movement and detail of the Ken and Barbie dolls was impressive. However, I will note that I saw the 3D version and don’t know that my visual experience was significantly enhanced by it; the 2D version should be just as enjoyable (especially given the sky high price for 3D movie tickets).

Toy Story 3 should also be just as enjoyable for someone who has never seen the first two movies in the Toy Story franchise as for someone who has. While I’ve seen both films, it’s been many years since I’ve watched either and it did not detract from my movie-going experience. Toy Story 3 is more than just a fun movie, it shares important lessons about sticking by your friends, doing for others and knowing when to let go. Only the most cynical will not be made a little bit misty by the end of the film, but it’s not a sadness that weighs upon the heart, rather, a recognition of a shared experience that resonates. You are only depriving yourself if you choose not to see Toy Story 3; is the first must-see movie of the summer, if not the year.