Toy Story 4

Pixar has proven time and again that their brand of animation can mix childlike wonder and adult themes with a deft hand, and "Toy Story 4" further refines that strength. Yet, this entry in the "Toy Story" franchise doesn't feel like the others, and for good reason: It's a natural progression of a narrative that ends up doubling down on the most troubling aspects of our favorite toys and their adventures. And as is Pixar's won't, it does it all while being a breezy, fun time. Take this chapter in the franchise as a nice addendum, even though it does open the door for plenty of other possibilities that don't seem necessary given the story's progression.

Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), Rex (Wallace Shawn), Mr & Mrs. Potato Head (Don Rickles & Estelle Harris) and the rest of the gang are happy with their existence as Bonnie's (Madeleine McGraw) toys, but something is eating at Woody. He's not being played with as much anymore, and he's incapable of working himself back into Bonnie's good graces. This becomes doubly true after Bonnie makes Forky (Tony Hale), a toy made out of a spork and pipe cleaner, and pays extra special attention to him. While on a family trip, Forky ejects himself out a window and Woody must bring him back. The toys aren't prepared for the adventures to follow, especially after the return of Bo Peep (Annie Potts) throws Woody's life into a tailspin.

At one point during "Toy Story 4," Woody catches sight of the lamp which Bo Peep frequented before being given away to another family. Behind him stands a pathway back to Bonnie's good graces and the other, a retreat into the past he once loved. Naturally, the sheriff opts for the latter, and this sweeps him into a dangerous adventure the likes of which he's never seen before. Small moments like these give emotional weight to the proceedings, even when they're just fleeting glimpses of a film that could've taken a headfirst dive into despair.

"Toy Story 4" has an incredible video and audio presentation with the new 4K Blu-ray combo pack. So many of the finite details of the animation come across clearer and more vibrant. There's a clarity and vitality to the image that really makes this home entertainment release one to own. Plus, there's a slew of special features to dig into. While the deleted scenes are presented mostly by storyboards, there are more than a few featurettes "Toy Story" fans are bound to love here. Other special features include:

� "Toy Stories" - The Toy Story 4 cast and crew share their love of toys!
� "Woody & Buzz" - Take a look at the relationship between these two legendary characters.
� "Bo Rebooted" - Discover how Team Bo reimagined all aspects of Bo Peep's identity to arrive at the fully realized character seen in the film.
� "Toy Box" - A collection of mini-docs on the film's memorable new characters, featuring the voice actors, director Josh Cooley and Pixar artists talking about the many elements that make these characters fun and lovable
� "Let's Ride With Ally Maki" - Ally Maki, the voice of Giggle McDimples, learns all about Pixar's dialogue recording process from director Josh Cooley and his team.

"Toy Story 4"
4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray and Digital Copy
$44.99
https://movies.disney.com/toy-story-4