Toy Story in 3D

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It’s easy to get confused, but this isn’t the new Toy Story 3 in 3D. This is actually the original Toy Story, originally released in 1995, given a 3D makeover. No extra scenes, no new subplots, just exactly the same film. But in 3D.

Some may see this as a savvy marketing tool to sell the same film twice. Which it is. But to its credit, it has to be deemed a modern classic, therefore another cinematic outing is definitely a good thing. And did we mention that it’s in 3D now?

The story is a simple one. A group of toys, led by the charming cowboy figure Woody (Tom Hanks), are taken by surprise by the news that Andy’s birthday party has been moved up to today, as the family are preparing to move house. Not only does this mean that his toys are going to be stampeded by a horde of energetic kids, but they will also see the arrival of new toys as presents. All goes well until Andy unwraps his last present – the latest must-have-even-if-my-family-can’t afford-it toy – a Buzz Lightyear action figure.

Toy Story in 3D
Buzz, you really thought this was Toy Story 3 in 3D you were watching?! Sucker!

Unfortunately for Buzz (Tim Allen), he actually believes he’s the real Buzz Lightyear, sent by Star Command to patrol the universe. When he’s brought back down to earth with the news he isn’t the real deal, Buzz doesn’t take it well. This leads to both himself and Woody being trapped in the clutches of Sid, their evil next door neighbour. If they don’t manage to escape, and with the family and toys moving imminently, they could be left behind forever.

Even though this was the very first animated feature by Pixar, it has stood the test of time remarkably well. Not only is the animation (which back in the day was considered groundbreaking) given a new lease of life with its 3D-ness, the story and characters have lost none of their charm. In fact, the high standard of writing can still put a lot of more recently released features – animated or otherwise – to shame.

In all honesty, this fascination with 3D again is beginning to wear a little thin. The film, as it has already proven, works perfectly well in plain old 2D. It certainly doesn’t make it a breathtaking visual spectacle from beginning to end; but at least it’s quite subtle in its execution, and doesn’t detract from the original’s charm.

If you’ve never seen it before (because really, you should get out more), then this is a great opportunity not to be missed. And even if you have seen it, you’ll fall in love with it all over again. So buckle up and prepare to go “to infinity and beyond!”. Again.

five out of five