Just
when you thought Toy Story 3 was the
perfect conclusion to the saga of Woody and Buzz Lightyear, comes Toy Story 4, a feel-good, touching
journey that takes the toy mythology to another level. This G-rated, animated adventure will make
you make you laugh and cry, all wrapped in love.
In
a flashback, the toys experience separation and loss over the years as they are
moved from Andy to Bonnie, who ‘makes’ a new
toy, Forky, who subsequently runs away. As
Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), and the other toys band together to rescue
Forky, their pursuit leads to a
carnival and an antique store, where a group of mysterious toys awaits. Old faces
appear, and new relationships are forged as the toys’ world is upended.
The
film encompasses important themes of acceptance and having a purpose and the
need to belong to a child. The aspects of loyalty and self-sacrifice loom
heavily, and what has always been the
hallmark of these films is the redemption of characters when all seems lost.
Woody
leads the narrative with strong support by Bo Peep (Annie Potts) and Buzz, who
listens to his ‘inner voice’ recordings.
Comedians Key and Peele (yup Jordan Peele) as plushy, wisecracking
animals and Keanu Reeves as a motorcycle daredevil, Duke Caboom, are a riot.
The computer
animation is remarkable and renders characters and backgrounds in brilliant detail.
Sharp eyed
viewers may catch Easter Eggs from other Pixar films, and the voice credits may
surprise you too.
There
are wild, exciting scenes, funny gags, and engaging pathos as the film builds
to an emotional climax, and a new
dynamic emerges that promises new, exciting adventures. Toy Story 5, anyone? (Stay through the
end credits for bonus fun.)
****
of **** stars
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