Andy (John Morris) is getting ready to head off to college and is forced to decide what to do with all his childhood toys. Although Andy intends to store most of them in the attic, a mix up causes Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), and the rest of the gang to end up in the Sunnyside Daycare facility. At first the daycare looks like heaven on earth for the toys. They are warmly greeted by Lotso (Ned Beatty), who seemingly is the head of all the Sunnyside toys, and there are tons of kids to play with the toys. Even the possibility of romance arises as discarded Barbie (Jodi Benson) meets Ken (Michael Keaton). While most of the toys seem to enjoy their new surroundings, Woody is determined to get back to Andy. It is only after setting out to find Andy that Woody discovers Lotso may not be as friendly as he appears. With his friends in danger, Woody must figure out a way to save his pals and get back to Andy’s house before it is too late.
Thank you Toy Story 3 for offering up yet another engaging buddy film that never felt forced. Not for a minute. The movie features two distinct, and fully realized, story arcs that allowed both Woody and Buzz to continue the growth established in the previous two films. Woody’s arc leads the film into in a much darker place than the other films. Even though the main characters are toys Toy Story 3 offers a lot of food for thought in regards to death and the longevity of friendship. It is touching to witness Woody struggles with issues of mortality while still trying to maintain a brave face amongst his friends.
Director Lee Unkrich smartly balances the more somber mood of Woody’s adventure with Buzz’s more comedic arc. What I like about the Buzz Lightyear segments are that they never resort to cheap gags. Unkrich ensures that the humour is always grounded and often ties back into the allusions to Buzz’s love life. Another thing that is noticeable about Buzz’s arc is that it provides a platform for all the supporting characters to have their moments in sun. Unlike many film out right now, there is not one supporting character that feels out of place. Jesse, Rex, Hamm and the Potato Heads have become such an essential part to the Toy Story universe. Toy Story 3 would have felt odd without them.
I would also like to say thank the film for finding a way to sell Happy Meal without ever comprising the integrality of the main product. Are you taking notes Shrek? Whether it is the references to classic films such as Escape from Alcatraz and The Great Escape, or the reflective moments that will leave your eyes a little misty by the end, Toy Story 3 just gets better as the film goes on. Even in its final installment the Toy Story series continues to be a reminder that you can make big budget films that tell good stories, are full of action and humour, and feature well rounded characters.
If I had to make a complaint about the film, it would be that Pixar opted to go the 3D route yet again. Similar to Up, Toy Story 3 really does not need the 3D gimmick at all. I would have been impacted the exact same way had the film been done in 2D, the only real difference is I would have few bucks more in my pocket. Still, the loss of three extra dollars is minor considering how much the Toy Story franchise has given me back in return. So thanks again guys, it has been a fun ride and I am sad to see you go.
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