Monday, July 1, 2019

Toy Story 4 (2019)

It's been 9 years since the 3rd and presumably final chapter in the "Toy Story" series nearly broke all of us emotionally. Now after much disagreement to make another film, the film is here and it is truly an end of an era. The 3rd film ended things on a high note- or so we all thought. This 4th and for sure final chapter is also a heart breaker and a crowd pleaser. This film may not be as emotional as the 3rd one but it's a delight for fans who've been with Woody & Buzz and the rest of the gang of toys all these years. 

Director Josh Cooley makes a name for himself as this film is a joyful and entertaining sight to behold. The cleverness and genuine fresh and overall sense of closure is satisfying to see. The films story may not be as emotionally gripping as the third installment but it's still a good and pleasing one. 

Returning one last time to voice our favorite characters are: Tom Hanks & Tim Allen plus newcomers to the film series Keanu Reeves, Tony Hale Key and Peele. This films cast couldn't be any less than amazing & delightful even if it so desired. They all do another outstanding job at once again proving to us that these characters have had a childhood impact on everyone of us young enough to remember our first time seeing them on the big screen or even perhaps owning a Buzz and Woody as a kid. 

Not only do we get some fresh new characters, but we also get the return of Bo Peep and her sheep. Bo Peep, voiced again by Annie Potts, is a standout in this film and also quite a leader. Seeing her back is surprising and joyful because we haven't seen her since "Toy Story 2" in 1999. 

Though I did gripe at the fact that a fourth installment was made due to the success of the third film, I thought that the 3rd film was an excellent conclusion to the franchise. After seeing this film, I unfortunately can say that the third one is still my favorite. Yeah, this film is indeed truly the end (or so lets hope), it may not be as emotional as the third film. 

Returning to compose the score is veteran "Pixar" composer Randy Newman. Newman who is not shy to this franchise, crafts yet another beautifully sounding composition that resonates well with the film so eloquently. 

Not only does this film have amazing visuals and story, it also has some life lesson and commentary about life. It uses the characters and script to tell audiences that life is essentially meant for exploration of the world. It's something nice and not too preachy. 

With audiences still reeling 9 years after the emotionally gripping third installment, this installment may not top that one, but is as cheery and delight as the films previous installments. The film sure does do a great job at entertaining its audiences with one spectacular and delightful finale. 

Photo Courtesy of Disney & Pixar
















Rate: B+

Director: Josh Cooley

Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, Annie Potts 

MPAA Rating: G (for all audiences) 

Runtime: 1 Hour & 40 Minutes

Synopsis: Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang embark on a road trip with Bonnie and a new toy named Forky. The adventurous journey turns into an unexpected reunion as Woody's slight detour leads him to his long-lost friend Bo Peep. As Woody and Bo discuss the old days, they soon start to realize that they're worlds apart when it comes to what they want from life as a toy.