Toys R' Us

Rating: 8/10 (23 June 2019)

GRADE: B
THIS FILM IS RECOMMENDED.
IN BRIEF: A visually dazzling sequel whose animated heroes work overtime to save their film from a formulaic action-driven plot.
JIM'S REVIEW: Toy Story 4 still follows its heart-warming, yet predictable, formula of lost toys and childhood innocence and the film wisely relies heavily on its well-established and beloved characters. Hail, hail the gang's all here, and then some, even if it seems a tad worn for wear.
The screenplay by Stephany Folsom and Andrew Stanton successfully updates its story for this new generation of moviegoers. The story takes everyone cross country as little Bonnie enters kindergarten and begins to lose interest in her toy friends. However, this sequel spends too much time on the film's action-driven plot and non-stop chases. It's all road trip adventure and rescue missions, and not enough of an emotional build in its storytelling as in previous installments. The film introduces new characters that just do not register as effectively as Mr. Potato Head, Rex, or Bo Peep. Instead we encounter Duke Caboom, a small daredevil unsure of his own courage, Ducky and Bunny, two stuffed teddy bears lacking any heart, and a dumb spork named Forky in search of a brain. They're off, but not to see any wizard.
Still, the technical aspects of this film are beautifully rendered with stunning use of stark shadows and bright lighting. Scenes are densely composed with such unbridled mastery. The background detailing is remarkable, especially the subtle discarded remains found inside a cluttered antique store. Very well directed by Josh Cooley, the film is a lovely visual treat. One simply forgets that we are watching animation at its zenith.
Even though the story doesn't quite compare to other chapters, there are some truly wonderful sequences to enjoy: an opening credit scene that fluidly shows the changes through the years in everyone's lives, a chase sequence staged in the confines of a curio cabinet, a carnival barker unaware of a toy uprising, and my favorite, a macabre encounter with a creepy Gabby Gabby doll and her ventriloquist dummy henchmen stalking Woody in search of his valuable voice-box.
And Tom Hanks does have a valuable voice-box as he perfectly inhabits his sensitive friend in me. His voice-over work as Woody is in a class by itself. Once again, Tim Allen brings to his character the needed swagger, bravado, and comic elements. Solid support is given by Annie Potts as a newly empowered Bo Peep, Wallace Shawn as a nervous dino, and Joan Cusack as Cowgirl Jessie. Breathing life into their new characters are Tony Hale, Keanu Reeve, Jordan Peele, Keegan-Michael Key, and especially, Christina Hendricks as the menacing yet vulnerable Lady in Pink.
Toy Story 4 may not be the series' strongest entry, but the bar is still high compared to other animated films that usually go for cheap laughs and sophomoric humor. This highly engaging film has more to say about the human condition than most animated or, for that matter, live action movies nowadays. The artistry is there in full force, with much to admire, even if the film's narrative loses its way on its nostalgic journey in search of childhood memories and the value of friendship. Yes, this series still has a friend in me.