Disney/Pixar does it again in the third (and supposedly final) installment in the Toy Story franchise. “Toy Story 3” (rated G) is fun for the whole family. The original cast of characters are all present. Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack return as the voices of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie. All our old favorites are present and accounted for as well as new characters who are introduced with finesse and trademark Pixar humor.
As Andy prepares to leave for college we are reminded of the fun which began fifteen years ago in 1995 with Pixar’s first movie “Toy Story”. As Andy cleans his room in preparation for leaving home to begin his Freshman year of college he finds all the old gang buried in his toy chest. Through a series of unfortunate events all of Andy’s toys, minus Woody, are sent to the curb as opposed to the attic like he originally planned.
Believing Andy has abandoned them they end up at a day care center where they are excited to enjoy kids who will finally play with them. Thinking they have caught their big break Slinky, Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head, Rex, Hamm and the rest settle into their new home looking forward to endless hours of playtime with the toddlers. However, the real test of their friendship comes with the introduction of Lots-O’-Huggin’ Bear (aka Lotso) as the King of the day care. He rules with an iron fist striking fear into the hearts of the new comers. Predictably, Woody arrives to save the day, and his friends, from destruction at the hands of Lotso and his gang of misfits. Eventually they make their way back to Andy where he finds his old friends waiting. What becomes of their fate is left up to you to find out.
I enjoyed this movie from start to finish. While I did get a little misty eyed as Andy and his mom wrestle through their emotions of Andy leaving home, I admittedly laughed the whole way through. Buzz’s spanish mode steals the show followed closely by Ken and Barbie who bring joy and laughter with their stereotypical ditzy personalities. I highly recommend “Toy Story 3” as a family event where dad, mom and the kids can enjoy a night of fun together. – Stephanie Spurgetis