1995 | Dir. John Lasseter | 81 Minutes
"Look, over there in that house is a kid who thinks you are the greatest, and it's not because you're a Space Ranger, pal, it's because you're a toy. You are his toy!"
Fearing that he will be replaced as the favorite toy of his owner, a young boy named Andy, cowboy doll Woody feels threatened by the arrival of endearingly delusional spaceman action figure Buzz Lightyear. While Andy, his family, and the rest of Andy’s toys prepare to move to a new home, Woody and Buzz learn to set aside their differences, working together to escape a dangerous situation when their rivalry lands them in the home of a wicked child.
The first feature-length computer-animated film in cinema history is a technical marvel and, above all, a funny, delightful and touching story. The film’s primary themes of adapting to change in the face of insecurity and fear are expertly presented, resonant to more mature audiences while amusing to viewers of any age. The humor is sharp, with plenty of clever sight gags and witty dialogue without relying too much on broad pop culture references. Director John Lasseter's vision is dynamic and wholly original, imbuing the entire film with genuine heart. Truly groundbreaking sequences include a visually stimulating trip to the video arcade, the rather spooky section of the film in which Woody and Sid’s damaged toys teach the boy an eerie lesson, and the high-speed ingenious finale.
Featuring the voice talents of A-list Hollywood actor Tom Hanks as Woody and sitcom star Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear at the forefront, Hanks and Allen form an excellent natural comedic pair. Comedic character actors Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn, and Annie Potts round out the supporting cast in iconic turns as classic toys. Friends star Jennifer Aniston is featured in a minor role as Andy's mother.
Toy Story is an unprecedented success that single-handedly established the viability of a new animation style. The film sets an astoundingly high standard for Pixar Animation Studios from the get-go and is the first in a line of amazing and delightful films.
JOHN RATZENBERGER AS...
- Hamm the tech-savvy piggy bank
A113
- The license plate number of Andy's mom's car
PIXAR INTERCONNECTIVITY
- The titles on a bookshelf seen behind Woody during his address to the toys about the big move are named after early Pixar animated shorts The Adventures of André and Wally B., Red's Dream, Tin Toy, and Knick Knack
- The ball from 1986 Pixar animated short Luxo, Jr. rolls down a hallway in Andy's house, is seen bouncing into Andy's room, and Buzz bounces off of it when he attempts to fly
