Have you seen Toy Story 2? Don't overlook this movie, it's positively delightful! The film stars the two characters from the original To y Story-- Woody, the old-fashioned cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, the newer trendier space hero. Both still sport their original voices-- Tom Hanks is Woody and Tim Allen is Buzz. Toy Story 2 is a production of the Pixar studio, with its idiosyncratic 3D animation that looks very different to any other animated feature. Toy Story 2 is also out of the ordinary in that it markedly improves on the original film.

        Indeed, Toy Story 2 is not only highly entertaining, it is also deliciously sentimental, and a particularly well put together story. There's plot, sub-plot, emotion, a hint of romance, and enough mush to encourage pensive recollection. The plot cleverly mixes an action/adventure theme with references to toys past and present, and cinema legend, to create a truly rewarding 92 minutes.

        When the story opens, Woody's arm is torn, so he can't go to Cowboy camp with his owner Andy. Then he is stolen by a toystore owner named Big Al, who recognizes Woody as an original and very valuable toy. Wayne Knight, who is best known as Newman on Seinfeld, provides the vocals for Big Al, speaking the role with the same lust for wickedness that so annoyed Jerry.

        In Al's office, Woody discovers his roots. It appears he was once a very famous toy, with his own tv show and everything. He meets his trusty steed Bullseye, as well as Prospector Pete and Jessie the Cowgirl. At first all Woody wants to do is get back home, but slowly he becomes fascinated by his heritage and lured to stay with his newly found family.

        Meanwhile Andy's other toys set out to rescue the kidnapped Woody. Their quest leads them to Al's toybarn where they have some very interesting encounters with Barbie, and another Buzz Lightyear.

        The story has so many delightful jokes built in to the fabric of the plot, as well as enough twists and turns to ensure that Toy Story 2 has no down time. None of the scenes have that dreaded feeling of inevitability. In fact, there are many laugh out loud moments. This movie is fresh and really clever.

        But more than good entertainment, Toy Story 2 manages to offer adults a moment to reflect back on long loved playthings. My most treasured toy is a doll named Mary Jane, who's been with me since I was 2. Toy Story 2, gave me pause to reminisce about Mary Jane, and to be thankful that she has made it through childhood, college, and marriage. Don't miss Toy Story 2, I love this movie.



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