Why Toy Story succeeds where other toy movies fail: A lesson in moving on
By
Jesse Hassenger
Summary
This article argues that amid a summer crowded with toy-based movies (like Masters of the Universe and The Mandalorian & Grogu), only Toy Story understands how to properly evolve its characters and themes. While other toy films try to nostalgically recapture a fading plastic past, Toy Story has always been about change, impermanence, and moving on — from its 1995 original through Toy Story 4's poignant farewell. The piece contrasts the emotional maturity and thematic depth of the Toy Story franchise with the hollow commercialism of other toy IP adaptations that merely exploit nostalgia without offering meaningful storytelling.
Source
The A.V. ClubWhy Toy Story succeeds where other toy movies fail: A lesson in moving onavclub.comKey quotes
· 3 pulled"Back in 1995, short-sighted retailers did not order enough dolls to meet demand." So says Tour Guide Barbie, not speaking about merchandise from her brand's own 2023 box office smash, but instead describing a gleaming wall of Buzz Lightyears as she ushers visitors through a Toys-'R'-Us-sized store in Toy Story 2.
The Toy Story films have always been about endings. About the necessity of moving on, even when it hurts. About the fact that nothing — not childhood, not friendship, not the perfect play session — lasts forever.
In a summer of toy movies, Toy Story is the only one that knows to move on. The rest are still playing with the same old toys, hoping no one notices they've run out of new ideas.
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