The Toys are back!!

Sing with me:

The toys are back in town, the toys are back in town…

That’s right, the toys are back and better than ever!

So you thought that Toy Story 3 was the end, the final chapter, the close-out of a well told story? Well, I did, too! I thought TS3 ended perfectly (albeit with some serious ugly cry from yours truly) and didn’t think there was anything left to the story. I was wrong and from the remarks from a few of my co-hosts, so were they!

Sam said,

It’s not about the toys, it’s about the Story… and Toy Story 4 has something for everyone, old favorites new characters on an unexpected adventure…

Lisa added that

I thought this story was over after toy story 3; I was VERY wrong!!!!

Toy Story 4 picks up somewhat where 3 left off, although we are treated to a flashback when we find out why a very important toy wasn’t in TS3. That’s right, Bo is back with her sheep (who we finally learn the names of) and from the very beginning, we remember just why we love her so much.

Back to the present, the toys are living it up with their kid, Bonnie, and helping her learn and grow into a little girl ready for school. Bonnie on the other hand isn’t quite as ready for this changing world and in a moment of creative inspiration, brings to life a new toy to join the gang.

Meet Forky!

Forky has some issues, but thankfully trusty toy Woody is right there to help him get by. With a grand adventure, the entire gang heads off on a summer road trip in the RV, with plenty of bumps along the way.

From the very beginning of this installment, you are swept up in animation so beautifully done, you keep wondering if this is ‘real’ or truly animated. (Trust me, it is animation!) I can’t even begin to tell you how many times my daughter and I would lean into each other and say “Wow!” or “Look at that! Is that real?!” Remember 24+ years ago when Toy Story premiered and we were all shook on the animation done by Pixar? Multiply that by 100 and that is how amazing this movie looks.

With all the toys that we have loved over the past 25 years, there are a few new ones to root for (or against) as well. One of the great things about this movie, as with the others in the franchise, who you think is good, or bad, may not be so by the end of the film.

One new character, Duke Caboom, voiced by Keanu Reeves, is sure to be a crowd pleaser and our own Nerd Jimmy said

Duke Caboom is absolutely my favorite Toy Story character!

Rachel adds about the film,

I have to agree with Jimmy. It was by far the best of the installment. Loved Duke. But Bo was a bad ass. Being [who she is now] hardened her

(quote edited by me to remain spoiler free)

We’ll also meet Giggle McDimples, Gabby Gabby, Benson and more great new friends who help the gang save the day!

Is this movie little kid friendly?

With a G rating, there is nothing that will give you that parenting dilemma we sometimes face in the PG movies, but there are a few dark scenes, mostly accompanied by a few friends of Gabby Gabby. Trust me, you’ll know them when you see them. I’m old(ish) and even I was a little EEKed out by them!

There are also some moments that made me reach for a tissue. Of course there are, this is a Pixar movie! I give this movie a 3 tissue rating, be sure to have some handy (and not covered in popcorn butter). As for little kids, I was in the theater with viewers that ranged from toddler-aged to old age and felt almost all enjoyed it. The 2 year olds in attendance had some moments of crying or distraction, but who’s to say that wasn’t from being denied more candy from big brother’s treats? My granddaughter is five and I think she is the perfect age for this film. Under 3, I suggest to use your own judgment.

Is this film worth a trip to the theater?

Absolutely! What we thought was closure in TS3 wasn’t really but with Toy Story 4, we truly can feel satisfied with how the story ends. Will the story really be over here? Only time will tell, and I am always ready for a little more of the toys, but if we end here, I think a great many fans will be pleased in a tale well done. I know I am, and as Jimmy added,

Toy Story 4 very well could be my favorite Toy Story movie!

and Sam, also included

Toy Story 4 is perfect – looking forward to the next chapter!

Be sure to lookout for the Easter Eggs! There are plenty throughout the film. After you have had a chance to view it, come back and tell us how many you spotted! And don’t forget to grab your coloring sheets and printables to get your family ready for the adventure. We have those HERE.

Toy Story 4 opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, June 21, 2019. You can get tickets here at Fandango.

Be sure to tell us what you think of the movie here, on our Facebook page, in the group, on Twitter or Instagram. We want to hear your thoughts, too!

Until next time,

To infinity and beyond!

Charlotte