The Toy Story franchise is one close to many children’s (and adult’s) hearts; the studio defining 1995 hit was a watershed moment for computer generated animation which combined advanced technology with a story full of heart and lovable characters. The sequels that followed were equally as good, if not better – inspiring and entertaining children around the globe and sparking a child-like joy in the adults that watched them. Fears arose in fans when a third film was announced 11 years after its predecessor – some believing that Pixar was simply cashing in on the franchise. These fears were quickly put to rest as the film was a smash hit and a critical darling, showing that whilst Pixar may have had some missteps, it was still very much in control of the Tory Story series. Despite this, the announcement of a fourth film stirred up that same fear in fans, somewhat understandably as Toy Story 3 seemed like the perfect bookend to the franchise. Yet again these fears were proven wrong however, as Toy Story 4 is another stellar entry filled to the brim with plenty of heart, laughs, life lessons and incredible characters that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s faces.
The toys’ fourth outing centres around Woody (Tom Hanks) coming to terms with his role as a toy for new owner Bonnie. Having been the apple of previous owner Andy’s eye, Woody isn’t accustomed to not being the favourite and finds himself being passed over when playtime rolls around. When Bonnie brings home new “toy” Forky (Tony Hale) – a creation made out of a plastic spork, googly eyes and popsicle sticks – Woody is understandably a little miffed, but he also recognises the importance of the self-made toy in helping Bonnie cope with school. Forky is suffering from his own existential crisis, believing his purpose is to be used once and thrown in the trash, and Woody takes it upon himself to help Forky realise just how important he is to Bonnie and what it truly means to be a toy. When Woody and Forky are separated from the rest of the group, it is up to them – as well as a host of characters both new and old such as Buzz (Tim Allen), Jesse (Joan Cusack), Bo Peep (Annie Potts), Ducky (Keegan-Michael Key), Bunny (Jordan Peele) and Duke Caboom (Keanu Reeves) – to work together to get Forky back to Bonnie.
As with all of Pixar’s greatest films, Toy Story 4 is anchored by a central theme: finding one’s place in the world. For Woody, his purpose has always been making Andy happy and he has thrived off seeing Andy grow into his own fully fledged person. Naturally Woody assumes that things will go much the same with new owner Bonnie, but life has other plans. The emotional core of the film centres around Woody coming to terms that he is not Bonnie’s favourite toy like he was Andy’s, yet still having that instinct at his core to see Bonnie happy and fulfilled. He is willing to sacrifice his own happiness if it means that other toys can go on and make Bonnie happy, and this compromise really weighs on Woody as he also yearns for his own personal happiness. Enter Forky, who acts as a physical representation of the opposite view to Woody: where Woody believes his purpose is to help ensure Bonnie’s happiness, Forky believes he is destined for the trash and goes to great lengths to achieve this and ensure his own happiness. The companionship between these two toys allows for a real exploration of the concept of purpose, as both characters come to understand each other’s point of view. It’s a complex concept sold in a visually stunning, funny and endearing way that really appeals to kids and teaches as well as entertains.
Whilst the animation and laughs are always top notch, audiences flock to the Toy Story films for the characters. Children from the 1990’s have grown up with these characters and their adventures and understandably have a special place in their hearts for Woody, Buzz, Jesse and the gang. It might come as a blow to some viewers, therefore, that the film chooses to narrow its focus on Woody and his internal crisis. He is undoubtedly the lead and whilst we get plenty of screen-time from other characters (mostly new), don’t go into it expecting to see much of your favourite supporting characters like Slinky or Rex. This laser focus on Woody and his immediate surroundings works for the story being told and helps the audience understand his mindset; we’re along for the ride with Woody and are experiencing this wider world of toys as he does. Speaking of which, Toy Story 4 branches into unmarked territory for the series as this is undoubtedly the scariest film in the franchise and I was shocked at the horror elements on display and how unsettled I was by certain scenes. On the flip side of this, it’s also the funniest film in the series by far with the addition of comedy sketch duo Key and Peele a stroke of genius. The pair play stuffed animal carnival prize toys who have clearly been strapped to the prize wall for too long given their imaginative and warped views on what is happening around them. Key and Peele obviously have great chemistry and the incessant banter that bleeds from their scenes at the forefront into the background is so good and consistently funny – I could happily listen to the hours of recorded dialogue that was ultimately scrapped.
With the film anchored by Woody, it’s no surprise here that Tom Hanks gives a stellar performance. The character is second nature to Hanks at this point and the way he uses his voice to convey Woody’s emotional state is spectacular. Combine that with Pixar’s best animation to date and the end result is a completely immersive film that really sucks you into the story. Tim Allen reprises his role as Buzz and is quite frankly a little shortchanged here as the character’s involvement in the story seems like more of an afterthought. Allen works well with what he’s given and at this point it’s just reassuring to have Buzz along for the ride, in whatever capacity that may be. Where the voice acting really gets interesting is in the new additions to the cast, mainly Tony Hale as Forky and Keanu Reeves as Duke Caboom. Tony Hale has made a career out of playing excellent side characters on shows such as Veep and Arrested Development, but he really gets a chance to shine here as the voice of the googly-eyed spork, transferring that excellent comedic timing over to the big screen. Forky gets a chance to play off just about every major character and its almost a guaranteed laugh every time as Hale utilises a range of vocal techniques and grunts to hilarious effect. It’s no secret that 2019 belongs to Keanu Reeves and the role of Duke Caboom only adds to his impressive list of credits this year. Reeves’ voice is instantly recognisable at this point and half the fun of having him in this role is hearing John Wick himself voice the Canadian motorbike stunt rider with PTSD from his previous owner. It’s a charming character and the little French-Canadian touches Reeves provides really add to the performance. Last but certainly not least is returning side character Bo Peep, played by Annie Potts, who has been promoted to co-lead this time around. It’s a complete change for the character who has gone from little more than a bit part to a fierce, independent adventurer intent on discovering all the world has to offer without the constraints of belonging to one child. Potts plays this strong aspect of the character perfectly but really shines in showcasing Peep’s vulnerability. She misses the companionship of Woody and despite enjoying her life of freedom longs for that connection.
Toy Story 4 is another rousing triumph for Pixar. A film that not only justifies its existence but which furthers the franchise in every conceivable way: characters, emotional depth and comedy just to name a few. The new additions to the cast are incredible and each new character brings a different flavour to the narrative; be it Bo’s emotional connection with Woody or Forky’s waxing philosophical about trash. Pixar once again proves that they are the industry gold standard in animation and audiences should rush to see this film in the theatre, where it will surely break box office records. If you had any doubts about a fourth film in the franchise, then they will almost certainly be put to bed, and if Pixar decides to continue with the series at this standard, well they can go to infinity and beyond.
Toy Story 4 stars Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Tony Hale, Keanu Reeves, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele & Christina Hendricks and is in cinemas now.