By HOWARD McQUITTER II
oldschoolmovies.wordpress.com
howardmcquitter68@gmail.com
“Toy Story 2”(2019) ****1/2 Disney/Pixar Animation/Adventure/Comedy
What”™s makes the “Toy Story” installments so wonderful is the characters are in many ways we can relate to.Â
In the fourth franchise ”“ “Toy Story 4” ”“ is more intriguing than almost any other movie franchise, e.g. “Godfather,” lucky to have a good sequel, but more than likely to plummet with the third installment let lone a fourth installment.Â
Even with the debut direction of Josh Cooley taking from the previous directors of “Toy Story 1,2,3 ”“ John Lasseter (1,2), Ash Brannon (2) and Lee Unkrich, respectively, the project is Pixar”™s shinning light.
One might wonder why there”™s a “Toy Story 4” to begin with, after all, didn”™t the the others provide what”™s needed?Â
One reason is to add a new character(s) such as Forky (Tony Hale), a new toy, owned by a new character Bonnie, a toddler, as well as her making. Bonnie is going through anxiety (as to be expected) because she”™s been told by her parents ”“ equally anxious that she”™s going to kindergarden for the first time. Meanwhile, Woody (Tom Hanks) who use to be Andy”™s toy as Andy has grown out of toys, therefore, Woody is acquired by Bonnie who favors Forky. Forky, made out of cutley, pipe cleaners and goggly eyes, is always ready to jump into the dustbin thinking he”™s trash.
A welcome surprise to reenter “Toy Story 4” is Bo Peep (Annie Potts) who last appears in “Toy Story 2.” She has her lovely sheep ”“Billy, Goat and “Gruff ”“Woody says, “They have names?” She laughs saying, “You never asked.” On a camping trip the toys are hauled into the backseat and Woody and Forky in an accident are thrust out of the van bring walking trying to find the others. They see Granny”™s antique store, entering it running into some louche characters.Â
What”™s here as in all the “Toy Story” series is what should be a lesson to all of us ”“ cherish close friendships, have concern for lost ones, and aggressive attempts to reclaim the missing or those in danger. A catharsis is here in “Toy Story 4,” as in the others, for all of us.
Cast: Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Annie Potts (Bo Peep), Madeleine McGraw (Bonnie), Michael Key (Ducky), Jordan Peele(Bunny), Ally Maki (Giggle McDimples), Jay Herndricks (Bonnie”™s Dad), Lori Alan (Bonnie”™s Mom), Joan Cusack (Jessie), Bonnie Hunt (Dolly), Kristen Schaal (Trixie), Wallace Shawn (Rex), John Ratzenberger (Hamm), Blake Clarck (Slinky Dog), Don Rickles (Mr. Potato Head), Jeff Garlin (Butttercup), Estelle Harris (Mrs. Potato Head), Jodie Benson (Barbie). (G) Director: Josh Cooley.Â
Running time: 90 minutes.Â
Written by Andrew Stanton, Stephany Folsom.
