Toy Story 3 – Funny, Clever and Full of Adventure
After 11 years, the wait is finally over for fans of Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story franchise with the release of Toy Story 3.
It’s a sad day in the toy chest when Andy starts packing for college. Will Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), Jessie (Joan Cusack), Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head (Don Rickles & Estelle Harris), Rex (Wallace Shawn) and the rest of the gang be taken along, relegated to the attic or kicked to the curb?
The friends find themselves donated to the preschool set, where they are at the mercy of grubby, manhandling toddlers and a posse of two-faced toy bullies, led by Lot-s-Huggin (Ned Beatty) and a suave Ken doll (Michael Keaton). In true Toy Story fashion, our heroes show ingenuity, loyalty and courage as they make their exciting escape. In the end, the toys and their Andy learn to accept that while change is hard, it results in growth. The chance to share love and bring happiness to others trumps all.
What makes this movie work so well across generations is its emotional intensity. Whether it’s the joyful belly laughs, the poignant drama, or the very real sense of fear – as when the toys are nearly incinerated and reach out to one another to say goodbye – the viewer is taken on an unexpectedly satisfying and cathartic journey. The fact that it’s funny, clever and full of adventure doesn’t hurt either!
Toy Story 3 is rated G and opens in Disney Digital 3D on June 18. Thanks to Cyndi Menegaz for her review.
From our student reviewer:
Toy Story 3 is the one of the best movies I have ever seen. That is a lot coming from me. My star rating for this film is 5/5. It is hilarious, witty and absolutely charming. So, go buy your ticket today because I predict they’ll sell like hotcakes. “Ride like the wind Bullseye!” Today was my last day of school (of 6th grade). I felt trapped like next year everyone will forget me. The toys felt this way too in the movie. Remember when you go watch the movie, don’t just sit in your seat, relate. I love this movie and I hope that you do, too. Goodbye for now and see you next time on Lauren’s Critic Corner.
Reviewed by Lauren Boxer, KIDS FIRST! juror, age 12
