Toy Story 4 is a 2019 animated film directed by Josh Cooley, produced by Pixar Animation Studios, and released by Walt Disney Pictures. It serves as the fourth installment in the Toy Story series, which began in 1995. The Toy Story franchise has been widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved animated series of all time, not just for its groundbreaking animation but for its emotional depth and storytelling. As a result, Toy Story 4 had high expectations to meet, especially given that many fans felt Toy Story 3 was a near-perfect conclusion to the series. So, the decision to extend the story into a fourth film was met with both excitement and skepticism.
The opening of Toy Story 4 wastes no time reintroducing audiences to the familiar group of toys led by Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of their companions. However, what becomes quickly apparent is that this movie, unlike its predecessors, shifts its focus significantly to Woody. While earlier films featured the ensemble of toys more prominently, Woody becomes the clear protagonist here, and the movie centers on his journey of self-discovery. Woody, voiced once again by Tom Hanks, is grappling with the feeling of no longer being the favorite toy. After being handed down from Andy to Bonnie at the end of Toy Story 3, Woody finds himself in a new environment where he is no longer the central figure. Bonnie, the young girl who now owns the toys, prefers other toys, leaving Woody sidelined in the closet for most of the day. This shift in the dynamic sets up Woody’s internal conflict and drives the narrative forward.
At its core, Toy Story 4 is a movie about change, loss, and finding one’s purpose in the face of irrelevance. Woody’s journey is deeply personal, as he struggles to come to terms with the fact that his role in Bonnie’s life is much different from his role in Andy’s. This is exemplified in the introduction of Forky, a spork-turned-toy that Bonnie creates during kindergarten orientation. Forky, voiced by Tony Hale, is a fascinating addition to the cast. He is a toy made out of trash, and he is fully aware of this fact, constantly trying to throw himself away because he believes that’s where he belongs. Woody takes it upon himself to guide Forky and help him understand what it means to be a toy, but in doing so, Woody is also forced to confront his own insecurities and evolving role.
The film’s exploration of identity is not limited to Woody and Forky. Bo Peep, who was absent from Toy Story 3, returns in Toy Story 4 in a significantly expanded role. She is no longer the delicate porcelain figure from the earlier movies. Instead, she is now an independent, adventurous character who has found a life of her own outside of being someone’s toy. Her journey mirrors Woody’s in some ways, as she too has had to reinvent herself after being discarded. Bo Peep, voiced by Annie Potts, serves as a kind of mentor figure for Woody, showing him that there is life beyond being a child’s toy. Their interactions are some of the film’s most poignant moments, as they discuss the difficult reality that toys, like people, don’t always stay in the same role forever.
While Toy Story 4 is primarily Woody’s story, it does not neglect the supporting cast. Buzz Lightyear, voiced by Tim Allen, has his own subplot, though it is somewhat less developed than Woody’s arc. Buzz finds himself struggling to make decisions without Woody’s guidance, and this leads him on a humorous journey where he tries to rely on his “inner voice,” which he interprets as the pre-programmed buttons on his chest. Though Buzz’s storyline adds a lighthearted element to the film, it feels somewhat undercooked compared to the depth of Woody’s arc. Other fan-favorite characters like Jessie, Rex, and Hamm have smaller roles in the film, but they still provide moments of humor and nostalgia for long-time fans of the series.
One of the most compelling aspects of Toy Story 4 is its treatment of new characters. In addition to Forky, the film introduces Ducky and Bunny, a pair of carnival plush toys voiced by Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele. These two provide much of the comic relief in the film, and their banter is reminiscent of the duo’s comedy routines outside of the movie. Despite their comedic roles, Ducky and Bunny are more than just jokes. Their desire to be won at the carnival, to have a purpose, reflects the larger theme of the film: every toy wants to feel needed. Another standout new character is Gabby Gabby, a vintage doll with a broken voice box, voiced by Christina Hendricks. Gabby Gabby is initially presented as the film’s antagonist, but her motivations are deeply sympathetic. She longs to be loved by a child, just like Woody once was, and her arc is one of the more surprising and emotionally resonant parts of the movie.
Visually, Toy Story 4 is a marvel. Pixar continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in animation, and the level of detail in the film is astonishing. From the textures of the toys to the lighting in various scenes, every frame of the movie is crafted with incredible precision. One standout sequence involves the toys navigating an antique store, which is rendered in stunning detail. The film’s action scenes are also well-choreographed, blending excitement with humor in the way that Pixar has perfected over the years.
Thematically, Toy Story 4 touches on some heavy topics for a children’s film. The idea of outgrowing one’s usefulness, of finding meaning in a changing world, is something that resonates with audiences of all ages. Woody’s realization that he may no longer be the center of a child’s world is a metaphor for anyone who has faced the feeling of being left behind or becoming obsolete. However, the film balances these deeper themes with plenty of humor and adventure, ensuring that it remains accessible to younger viewers.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Toy Story franchise has always been its ability to appeal to both children and adults. Toy Story 4 continues this tradition, with jokes and references that will go over the heads of younger viewers but resonate with older audiences. The emotional depth of the film, particularly in Woody’s journey, will likely have a more significant impact on adults who have grown up with these characters. The film also offers a sense of closure, not just for Woody but for the series as a whole, even if it leaves the door open for future stories.
In terms of its narrative structure, Toy Story 4 is well-paced, though some may argue that it lacks the urgency of the earlier films. Whereas Toy Story 3 was a high-stakes adventure with the toys facing the possibility of their demise, Toy Story 4 is more introspective. It’s less about the external dangers and more about the internal struggles of the characters, particularly Woody. This shift in focus may not appeal to everyone, but it allows the film to explore new emotional territory.
The ending of Toy Story 4 is bittersweet. Without giving too much away, it offers a resolution for Woody that feels earned and true to his character. The final moments of the film are a fitting conclusion to his arc, even if they are tinged with sadness. For a series that has always been about the bond between toys and their owners, the ending of Toy Story 4 suggests that it’s okay for toys (and people) to move on and find new purposes in life.
One question that lingers after watching Toy Story 4 is whether the film was necessary. Toy Story 3 wrapped up the series so beautifully that many felt it should have been the final chapter. However, Toy Story 4 justifies its existence by telling a different kind of story, one that focuses on personal growth and change rather than just the relationship between toys and their owners. It doesn’t diminish the impact of the previous films but instead adds another layer to the overarching narrative of the series.
The voice acting in Toy Story 4 is, as always, top-notch. Tom Hanks brings a depth and vulnerability to Woody that makes his journey all the more poignant. Tim Allen’s Buzz Lightyear provides plenty of humor, even if his role is somewhat reduced. Newcomers like Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, and Christina Hendricks fit seamlessly into the established cast, adding fresh energy to the film. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and it’s a testament to Pixar’s ability to create well-rounded, memorable characters.
The music, composed once again by Randy Newman, complements the film perfectly. Newman’s signature style has been a hallmark of the Toy Story series, and his score for Toy Story 4 is both nostalgic and emotionally stirring. The familiar themes from the earlier films are woven into the new score, creating a sense of continuity that ties the whole series together.
