Toy Story (1995)

Genre

Adventure | Animation | Comedy

Director

John Lasseter

Country

USA

Voice Cast

Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger, Annie Potts, John Morris, Erik von Detten, Laurie Metcalf, R. Lee Ermey, Sarah Freeman, Jack Angel, Greg Berg, Debi Derryberry, Jeff Pidgeon, Joe Ranft

Storyline

Cowboy doll Woody (Tom Hanks) has it all. He is the leader in Andy's toy room, Bo Peep (Annie Potts) has the hots for him and he is Andy's favourite toy. But Andy's (John Morris) birthday arrives, along with a brand new toy, Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), a space cadet who thinks he is a space ranger who instantly becomes Andy's new favourite toy, and Woody becomes profoundly jealous. 

Opinion

1995. Pixar Animated Studios creates the first full-length computer-animated picture ever that starts a series of never ending success: "Toy Story", one of the greatest animated films ever made.

The thing that still impress me the most after 21 years is the plot to the film. Absolutely brilliant. The story of a toy that feels pushed aside and becomes jealous and envious when "his" kid receives a new toy that instantly becomes the favourite. 

I know, it may sound like it doesn't have anything special other than toys being alive, but it has been an incredible milestone for Disney as they portrayed for the first time feelings such as envy, jealousy, anger in a film that targets kids. It also teaches when it's time to kind of back off, and accept changes.

In addition to a simple yet effective plot that has both drama and excitement, the script also features outstanding characters and amazing character development. The conflict between Woody and Buzz is taken to a very deep level, and if it wasn't for the animation you'd totally forget what you're watching is a kids film.

Casting the right people to match voices to characters personalities is also extremely important in animated films. And what can I say, they couldn't have cast better actors. Tom Hanks is perfect as Woody, and delivers the character's sarcasm wonderfully. Tim Allen also is nothing short than perfect as Buzz, and gives the best performance in the film. Equally great is the rest of the cast, all believable and entertaining, they make you love each character.

And last but not least, the animation. Have you really thought I wasn't going to mention it? It's needless to say, I know, but it's simply spectacular. Pixar's incredible attention to detail was impressive the first time as well, and watching the film today and seeing how the characters move - from eyes to body movements -, well, it makes you forget how old the film is. 

What else can I tell ya? Life in plastic is fantastic!