Toy Story 2 [2000]

Although the toys look the same as in the 1994 feature, Pixar shows how much technology has advanced: the human characters look more human, backgrounds are superior, and two action sequences that book-end the film are dazzling. And it's a hoot for kids and adults. The film is packed with spoofs, easily accessible in-jokes and inspired voice casting (with newcomer Joan Cusack especially a delight as Cowgirl Jessie). But as the Pixar canon of films illustrates, the filmmakers are storytellers first. Woody's heart-tugging predicament can easily be translated into the eternal debate of living a good life versus living for forever. Toy Story 2 was deservedly a huge box-office success. --Doug Thomas, Amazon.com

A great story following the gang attempting to rescue Woody after a toy collector has kidnapped him (technically I guess he is stolen but it feels like a kidnapping). As in the first film the story works on a number of different levels successfully appealing to children and adults.

Once again the animation is fantastic and the vocal talents superb: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Kelsey and Joan Cusack are all excellent.

Simply wonderful


Superb   January 23, 2002
J. Smith (England)
5 out of 7 found this review helpful

I just LOVE this film, you cannot help but smile at it. The jokes, the action and the storyline. Its just great, no more needs to be said. Other than that the picture quality of the dvd is amazing, and the extras are good too. Although personally I can never be bothered to watch the interviews, but the outtakes are class :)


A remarkable tribute to modern humour in animation   September 16, 2000
simon@abingdoncole.freeserve.co.uk (UK)
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Although this film is aimed at children. It packs a punch for the mature viewer with its 'tongue and cheek' approach which is so admirable. TOY STORY 2 deserves to become a classic along with it's predecessor. This is one of few sequels (along with THE GODFATHER PART II) which has such depth and originality.

The jokes in this sensational movie keep you laughing till bedtime. I remember resiting all the witty lines to my friends who had yet to see it.

The voices are first rate (a grade up from the original), Joan Cusack most notably. Kudos most also be given to the animated team who (still) make us marvel at such fantastic special-effects animation skills.

The mood is different from the original too. The whole set-up of the story felt different and there was one touchingly tender moment involving beautiful little Jessie (Joan Cusack).

I think this movie should be taken from the kids and watched late-at-night when they're all tucked in bed purely because this is deep, touching and often hysterically witty storytelling. Just don't tell the little rascals you've bought it!


Dire Disney   November 19, 2000
2 out of 13 found this review helpful

Once again woody and his pals are back for another fun filled adventure hurrah (!).

Not only is this film witless, charmless and altogether so sugary that it makes you want to pull your own teeth out before disney's claptrap will rot them away. Essentially it's the same as the first one and yes its just as boring. Not only do the jokes sound like they've come fresh from a 3rd rate comedian, the over exagerated and "cute" computer graphics makes you want to throw up. Give me manga anyday.


Great fun for the whole family   December 11, 2000
hal_mustafa@hotmail.com (London)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Toy Story 2 explores the simple (though intriguing) theme of the meaning of life for a toy! This was touched on in the first film but it is central to Toy Story 2.

The animation is excellent, and the film is commendable simply on this basis alone, but the characters are even better. The pace of the film is handled very well with never a dull moment.

Some may dismiss this as a film for children, but I think that would be a mistake. There's plenty there for children and adults alike. No need to get too deep and meaningful over this as it's just good wholesome family fun.

If you enjoyed the first film you will certainly enjoy this one!