Who says sequels can't be great?

Rating: 8/10 (19 February 2000)

Toy Story 2: When an evil toy collector kidnaps Woody, Buzz and the gang set out to rescue him. But will they get to Woody in time, or will he be sold to a toy museum?
This movie is proof that not all sequels have to suck (Aliens notwithstanding). Once again the creators have crafted a solid story line, with the addition of several well-rounded new characters (they're not just there to provide colorful scenery). I particularly enjoyed the winking nods to blockbusters past (the Star Wars take was hilarious) and the numerous in-jokes for the adults in the audience. As always it's fun to play spot the Disney product placement (I saw characters from Bugs Life, Aladdin and the early Pixar shorts among others). But the best thing about the sequel is the animation.
With Toy Story, Pixar took computer animation to a level that most people only dreamed of (rent Wargames or Tron to see what "cutting-edge" used to look like). Rather than rest on their laurels, the animators have gone a step further and deliver beautifully rendered landscapes, seamless action sequences, and even more realistic human characters. Also, the amazing attention to detail - numbering the parts on the landing gear -makes you forget you are watching a cartoon (I kept expecting to see a gaffer's hand slip into view). This film leads me to believe that it will only be a matter of years before digital characters start replacing co-stars in live action films.
If you're looking for a film the whole family can enjoy, this is it. Just try to avoid the matinee, or the screaming will drown out half the filmAlso, make sure you stay until the end of the credits for the "outtakes".