Verdict
Summary
Toy Story 4 is a wonderful addition to this franchise – a must-watch for anyone looking for an emotional and entertaining time.
Plot: When new toy Sporky joins Woody and the gang on a family road trip, Woody finds himself questioning his existence as a toy.
Review: The Toy Story franchise is such a timeless classic and this fourth installment is no different. With the surplus of sequels and remakes coming out, there was definitely a risk of this movie being just another pointless addition but I am really glad that Disney decided to revisit Woody and the gang—grateful even, to spend a couple of hours with beloved characters from our childhood.
This time around, we focus more on Woody’s character (voiced by Tom Hanks) as he learns what it truly means to be a toy. In a Post-Andy world, Woody finds himself constantly clinging onto the past rather than being open to new experiences. His existential struggle really pulls at your heartstrings as it parallels many of our childhood memories. Even as a new generation of Disney/Pixar movies come out, with much excitement also comes a bit of reluctance and nostalgia.
This film brilliantly captures past and present in a way that is not only heartfelt, but highly entertaining too. As we are reintroduced to the toys we’ve known and loved, we get to see how the years have changed (and unchanged) them – particularly with Bo Peep (Annie Potts). It was very touching to see characters reunite and even interact with new toys as well. They were a great addition to an already incredible ensemble, and let’s just say—I’m all for a Ducky and Bunny spinoff.
With this new chapter in the series, Toy Story 4 still remains loyal to what this franchise is all about: the importance of friendship. Whether Disney plans on making a fifth installment or not, this movie certainly doesn’t fail to touch the hearts of audiences.