Toy Story 2 is a 1999 American computer-animated feature film produced by Pixar Animation Studios for Walt Disney Pictures. It is the second installment in the Toy Story franchise and the sequel to Toy Story (1995). The film was directed by John Lasseter, co-directed by Ash Brannon and Lee Unkrich, and written by Andrew Stanton, Rita Hsiao, Doug Chamberlin, and Chris Webb from a story by Lasseter, Stanton, Brannon, and Pete Docter. The plot of the movie revolves around Woody being stolen by a toy collector, prompting Buzz and his friends to embark on a rescue mission to save him before he becomes a museum toy property.
Toy Story 2 received critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling, gorgeous animation, and talented cast. It is often regarded as a rare sequel that improves on its predecessor. The film features a mix of old and new characters, including the energetic Jessie the Yodelling Cowgirl, the hot Barbies, and Woody's faithful and hyper-steed, Bullseye. The sequel's success demonstrated the timelessness of the characters and their appeal to audiences of all ages.
The film's humor is enhanced by its bright visuals, with sequences such as the one with the traffic cones and the riff on The Empire Strikes Back in the lift providing entertainment for viewers. Similar to the first Toy Story, the sequel balances its humor and bright visuals with a story that has a touch of melancholy, making it a more emotionally engaging experience. Kelsey Grammer and Joan Cusack join the cast as the Prospector and Jessie, respectively, bringing their unique talents to the film. The main plot of the movie revolves around the toys' attempts to rescue Woody and bring him back home, showcasing the strong bond between the characters.
Toy Story 2 was initially planned as a direct-to-video production, but the enthusiastic Pixar team managed to upgrade it to a full theatrical release. The film faced challenges during its production, with John Lasseter deciding that the sequel wasn't up to Pixar standards. Despite this, the team managed to deliver a finished product within the tight deadline set by Disney.
Cast
- Tom Hanks as Woody
- Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear
- Joan Cusack as Jessie
- Kelsey Grammer as Prospector
- Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head
- Jim Varney as Slinky Dog
- Wallace Shawn as Rex
- John Ratzenberger as Hamm
Other notable ast members include Estelle Harris, Wayne Knight, and Jodi Benson, who played the new characters introduced in the film. The voice cast received critical acclaim for their performances, with Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reprising their roles as Woody and Buzz Lightyear, respectively. The chemistry between the characters and the voice actors' performances helped make Toy Story 2 a beloved classic.
Director: John Lasseter
Writers: Andrew Stanton, Rita Hsiao, Doug Chamberlin, and Chris Webb
Box Office Gross: $497,375,381
Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Genre: Adventure Animation Comedy Family Fantasy
Release Date: November 19, 1999
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