"Toy Story 4" Movie Review

Most of the time, sequels are not as good as the original and hardly ever surpass their predecessors. Toy Story, on the other hand, has been that rare series that has never once disappointed and has always delivered high quality stories each time. The movies have become as synonymous with bonds and friendship as Woody and Buzz themselves.

The film follows our favorite gang of toys at their new home with Bonnie. Bonnie is starting kindergarten, which leaves very little fun time anymore. When Bonnie comes home with Forky, a toy she made out of leftover pieces of trash, Woody takes it upon himself to keep Forky safe so Bonnie will remain happy. After a road trip goes wrong, Forky is lost ad Woody sets out to find him. He stumbles upon someone he never expected to see again, and must make a heartbreaking choice that will change all the toys' lives forever.

Some people go to movies because of series loyalty, or because of a particular actor, but what makes the Toy Story franchise stand out is the constant riveting storytelling. This time around is no different, however, the meaning within the story was far deeper and will certainly resonate with a lot of people.

The new additions were absolute perfection. From the duo Key & Peele to Keanu Reeves to Christina Hendricks, it seems like Disney has recruited everyone you could think of to voice a toy at some point in this series. Look out for Carl Weathers' cameo! It's quick but still fun all the same.

A lot of people had issue with part 3 surprising fans with Bo Peep's departure. For all those people out there, part 4 opens with a prologue that explains what happened to her and also sets up the coming story. The real question is, will there be a part 5? My answer: I hope not. The way the film ends feels conclusive and and further storytelling would just be treading water. John Lasseter, who came up with the idea for the first Toy Story and directed the first two, has said that he would not make another unless the story equals or surpasses what has come before. I just don't see how any future project could measure up to the 4 works of art that already exist.

In conclusion, go see this film. Whether you have kids or not, the film will make you laugh and teach you a few things about yourself that you may not have known before. I give the film a 4 out of 4.