242. Toy Story 2

Toy Story 2 (1999)

Director: John Lasseter

Starring: Tom Hanks

Tim Allen

Joan Cusack

IMDb Rating: 7.9

My Rating: 8

"You're right, Prospector. I can't stop Andy from growing up... but I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the toys are back in the Golden Globe winning Toy Story 2. Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) and his owner Andy are headed to cowboy camp. Sadly, Woody gets a rip in his arm, and has to be left behind. While Andy is away, his mother holds a yard sale. When she throws Wheezy the Penguin into the box of items to sell, Woody immediately plans a rescue mission. After saddling the family dog, Woody completes his rescue, but compromises his own safety in the process. He is stolen by toy collector Al (voiced by Wayne Knight), who wants to send him to a museum in Tokyo, Japan. When Buzz (voiced by Tim Allen) and the toys see Woody get stolen, they plan a rescue mission of their own. What follows is an exciting lesson in the strength and care of good friendships.

I am not sure Pixar Studios has ever turned in a bad film. Toy Story 2 is no exception. Woody and Buzz are icons all by themselves. We almost forget that Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are the voices behind the duo. The introduction of new characters, to an already strong stable, works perfectly. Joan Cusack is hilarious as cowgirl Jessie. It's also a touching montage, featuring a look back at Jessie's time with her owner, that steals the film. I was very happy to see that Hamm (voiced by Pixar staple John Ratzenberger) was given more of a role than in the first film. Toy Story 2 blends new and old characters to give us the perfect cast, for a fantastic time.

Toy Story 2 also stands as one of the best spoof films in recent years. Films such as 2001 : A Space Oddssey, The Empire Strikes Back, and Raiders of the Lost Ark are all sent up in a fashion that flatters, rather than bashes. My favorite reference occurs when Rex falls out of the Jeep that Hamm is driving. When Mr. Potato Head looks in the rear view mirror, the audience is reminded of another iconic moment when a dinosaur chased down a Jeep. The style, in which the films of the past are referenced, does not steal. Rather, it shows that the creators of the film are appreciative of other past visionary films.

This June the third installment of the Toy Story franchise hits theaters. Watching Toy Story 2 only added to my excitement for this summer. There is not much that I could say negative about the film. It's rare that a sequel will outshine it's predecessor. I am not sure if this is one of those cases, but it's safe to say that Toy Story 2 does not disappoint. It would not surprise me if spin-off films came out of this series. The secondary characters behind Woody and Buzz, are just as lovable. Pixar has really found a way to appeal to families and adult audiences at the same time. This film is a perfect example of that. I do recommend everyone enjoying this film if you haven't already.

*Toy Story 2 won Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy and Best Original Song.