‘Toy Story 4’: The film we didn’t know we needed

Toy Story 4’ is the fourth addition to an already perfect trilogy. This film is full of hilarious characters and heartfelt moments that it does not overstay it’s welcome.

The iconic duo of Tom Hanks and Tim Allen return to lend their voices to Woody and Buzz Lightyear. A few talented voices appear in this film as well including Keanu Reeves as the Canadian stuntman, Duke Caboom.

Josh Cooley makes his incredible directional debut with ‘Toy Story 4’. Cooley understands how to place the characters on the screen as if he was a seasoned director. He knows how to make the characters pull at our heart strings or make us laugh.

I was skeptical about this film from the first moment it was green-lit. ‘Toy Story 3’ ended on a perfect note, completing the trilogy. This film seemed like a cash grab that did not need to be. However, Pixar added on to the trilogy rather than destroying what they ended on.

There is no doubt that Hanks and Allen are amazing in their roles. They were born to voice these characters. There was not one voice in this film that was out of place. Every single voice actor did phenomenal in their roles.

The animation with movies today is incredible. The characters look so realistic which makes for a beautiful looking film.

On the negative side, the story is repetitive because it is the same in every movie. The toys get lost and must find their way back to their kid. However, this story seemed different as it had a deep meaning behind it all to wrap up the stories for the characters.

Woody takes on this parental role for Bonnie’s new toy named Forky. Forky does not understand his reason for being alive, and Woody helps him understand the meaning of life.

If you grew up with the ‘Toy Story’ series, then this movie will be a roller coaster of emotions. The themes of growing up and saying goodbye to people close to you may hit close to home for you.

This film series did not need a fourth addition, but this film does not take away from anything the first three films had established. You might want to bring tissues because Woody and Buzz’s last words will bring the water works.

 ‘Toy Story 4’ will play in Phelps Theater on Thursday, September 26 at 2:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. There will be one final showing on Friday, September 27 at 7:00 p.m.