It's Surprisingly Amazing!

Rating: 10/10 (28 June 2019)

Toy Story 3 seemed like a perfect ending for so many, which is why they hated the idea of a fourth film. But for others, especially the Pixar crew, the journey's not over yet for Woody and his pals. To quote Anastasia's grandmother: "It's a perfect beginning."
Toy Story 4 culminates welll the character that shaped the series as a whole-Woody. It gives Woody a whole new perspective in his post-Andy life, that is to reach out a toy in need to make its life worth enjoying, and he did it through Forky and Gabby Gabby. His reunion with Bo Peep, now better than ever, even strengthens that purpose.
About the new characters, I find them to be enjoyable and funny (thanks to Ducky and Bunny, both voiced by the witty Key and Peele). Duke Caboom is one Canadian standout, and not too stereotypical. I also like the way Gabby Gabby stands out from most Toy Story villains who are toys just like her. Stinky Pete and Lotso are bullies who have grown to hate children and never believe in love. Gabby Gabby however, treats the heroes (especially Forky) and her minions well and wants to be loved by a kid and believe in it. That opportunity has been sadly hampered for years by her broken voice box, leaving her abandoned in an antiques store. She reminds me of two Toy Story 2 characters: the aforementioned Stinky Pete (a vintage doll yet to be played with for decades) and Wheezy (abandoned due to an internal defect). Moreover, she is the first Pixar villain to be redeemed onscreen without being defeated, and I like it!
The movie has a meaning of giving a second chance, which is shown in Gabby Gabby's path towards redemption. No wonder the antiques store has a fitting name to it.
Overall, it's the movie I enjoyed for something most fans thought would fail.