Toy Story + Toy Story 2 3D

Editorial

Pixar has just released not one, but two, new 3-D films at cinemas. Plus, they’ve packaged this dynamic duo into a double feature, complete with an interactive introduction and intermission.

You haven’t heard about the latest Pixar delights? Not terribly surprising, considering this five-star two-for-one cinema offer has not really received the publicity or promotion you’d expect for such a fantastic event.

While we’ve already watched these Pixar films about one million times before, there’s no reason for the big screen re-release of Toy Story and Toy Story 2 to be kept as such a secret.

Sing from the rooftops that Pixar’s first super successes are back, back, back, because these digitally scrubbed-up and dimension enhanced family films remain cinematic magic of the timeless variety.

Neither of the excellent adventures of cowboy Woody (Tom Hanks), space ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and their box of pals were intended for the 3-D treatment they’ve been afforded, but you will see plenty of extra clarity, depth and appeal when your special glasses enliven the Toy Stories more than before.

The imaginative chase sequences which conclude both films offer some of the best 3-D moments, as well as our first meeting with the three-eyed aliens in the pizza parlour, and the interstellar start to Toy Story 2.

Pixar has come a long, long, long, long way since stunning the world with Toy Story in 1995. However, it’s amazing to rediscover how advanced is the huggable animation of Toy Story and its sequel, as well as their near flawless blend of scripting, vocal talent and mix of exuberance, pathos and old fashioned heart.

Although it’s highly likely that viewers of all ages will want to use the 10-minute intermission to rub eyes, stretch legs and visit the facilities, it pays to stay put and be thoroughly amused by on-screen Toy Story trivia and “treats”.

Two 5-star movies for the price of one? Plus a cool intermission? Sorry, Tooth Fairy, but going back to play with the newly revived Toy Story films is the best way to spend at the box office these school holidays. Also, it will whet your appetite for the next Toy Story sequel – to be released, in 3-D, on June 24. Can’t wait.

Hilton Thomas