Smart Barbie and Beyond

Rating: 10/10 (19 June 2010)

While I think I've been ripped-off recently with other 3-D experiences, (Alice in Wonderland especially), I knew that Pixar Studios wouldn't disappoint. Preceded by an absolutely charming confection, I was perfectly primed for the epic adventures of Buzz, Woody, and company. Andy is finally leaving home for the next phase of his life--one that won't include his plastic posse. His edited toys, sans Woody at first, are joined by Molly's Barbie for a trip to a strange new land. Part prison movie, part disaster film, the outrageous stakes have rarely been higher, and each act supported a clearly delineated narrative.
Other new characters include the creepiest doll since Chuckie, a strawberry scented purple bear whose southern graciousness conceals a machiavellian desire for power and control. Ken, another iconic character, is as much of a surprise as the scary mechanical monkey is delightfully disturbing.
I adored this elegant final chapter in the Toy Story Trilogy, and think some of the tears I shamelessly shed reflected the bittersweet feelings I have about most farewells. Never can say goodbye, no, no, no, no, no.