Review of Toy Story (1995) by James S — 22 May 2015

This was the film that put Pixar on the map. It is a fine example of a kids film that can appeal to adults as well.

The premise is appropriately simple: toys come to life when we aren't looking. Every toy in the kid's bedroom come out, and they are all given very distinct personalities, from Mr. Potato Head's fearful overreactions, to T-Rex's childlike innocence, to the Piggy Bank's dry sarcasm. The leader of the troupe is Woody (beautifully voiced by Tom Hanks), who keeps everyone in line and having fun.

Until, that is, that a new toy comes to the bedroom. He is Buzz Lightyear (voiced with bravado by Tim Allen), the newest Cool ToyTM, and he quickly takes over the show, leaving Woody feel empty. As Buzz and Woody embark on a solo adventure, they quickly become the Odd Couple, but develop a mutual respect.

The film says a lot about our priorities in childhood, and is also packed in with a lot of great humour for kids and adults alike (thanks in part to a co-screenwriting credit to Joss Whedon). A truly entertaining film that holds up twenty years later.