You Still Have A Good Friend In Toy Story 4

It takes a strong person to admit when they are wrong, and I can proudly say when it comes to Pixar’s latest release, I am eating a heaping helping of crow.

Ever since the announcement of Toy Story 4 I found myself groaning at the thought of this franchise continuing after what I (and everyone) originally thought was a perfect finale. However, after experiencing Toy Story 4 for myself there is no doubt that the old dog still had few tricks left in it.

The film continues from Toy Story 3, where Sheriff Woody and Buzz Lightyear, among their other toy friends, have found new appreciation after being given by Andy to Bonnie. They are introduced to Forky, a spork that has been made into a toy and embark on a road trip adventure.

The amount of love put into this film by its creative team is only trumped by the love that it filled the audience with.

Kudos to director Josh Cooley for allowing the animators to create such stunning environments, and just simply upholding the degree of quality that Pixar is known for. The visuals were the icing on this scrumptious cake, which drew out joy from this colorful cast’s many triumphs, sadness in the more somber moments, and fear caused by the accursed ventriloquist dummies.

Voices carry
The voice work is done masterfully by both returning cast like Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, and the long overdue return of Annie Potts as Bo Peep. Newcomers Christina Hendricks, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, Keanu Reeves and Tony Hale all do an excellent job holding their own alongside the long-timers.

It is important to note that this was the final performance of the late comedy legend Don Rickles. His scenes were brief and made up of archived sound from previous films, but he left his mark.

But this talented cast had an excellent script to work with, thanks to the talents of Pixar vets John Lasseter, Will McCormack, director Josh Cooley, and among a handful of others the always hilarious Rashida Jones. Her snarky wit shines through in many scenes, and most of the jokes land flawlessly.

As for music, if you like Randy Newman (which I guess someone does) you’re in luck! This soundtrack is the most Randy Newman-iest thing that I have ever heard.

Toy Story 4 is an absolute must see in theaters — it’s a fantastic send-off in so many ways and I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did.

I give Toy Story 4 (Pixar Animation Studios; G; 1hr 40mins) a 4.5 out of 5.