OK for kids 6+
Smart, funny "threequel" is scarier than the first two.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that while the third movie in Pixar's flagship Toy Story franchise is bound to please moviegoers of all ages, it is scarier and more intense than the first two (which is why we've rated this "threequel" at a higher age than Toy Story and Toy Story 2). Overall, the latest adventure shared by Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), and the rest of Andy's favorite toys is kid-friendly -- but there's a fairly long scene of the toys in serious peril toward the end of the movie that many 3- to 5-year-olds could find quite upsetting. There are also a few new toys that act a bit mean and creepy (particularly a Big Baby doll and a cymbal-clapping Monkey) and scenes in which favorite characters are trapped by cruel authority figures. But there are also wonderful, touching messages about friendship, loyalty, and imagination. Note: The 3-D version of the movie may make certain parts feel more immediate/lifelike, but the movie's intense scenes have a strong impact no matter which version you see.
- Families can talk about how the core group of toys have had to change since Andy's gotten older. How are they different? Who's missing, and why? What is the movie saying about childhood, play, and toys that mean a lot to kids?
- Even though Andy's about to head off to college, he ultimately takes a moment to rediscover his favorite toys. Which of your toys do you think will stay with you forever? Parents, tell your kids about your beloved toys that you kept until you were grown up.
- Why is Lotso so angry? Why is his motto "no owner, no heartbreak"?
- How does the third movie compare to the first two? Which one do you like most and why?
- What is the role of consumerism in the Toy Story movie franchise?
The good stuff
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Educational value: Kids may learn the value of appreciating and taking good care of their favorite toys.
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Messages: Pixar's Toy Story movies are all about friendship, loyalty, and "being there" for Andy and for each other. Through teamwork and collaboration, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Bullseye, Hamm, Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head, Slinky Dog, and Rex band together to overcome their many obstacles and disagreements. Sharing, teamwork, and ingenuity are all celebrated.
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Role models: Andy's toys are all brave and willing to sacrifice themselves for each other. Woody is one of the most loyal characters in movie history -- his dedication to Andy above all else is admirable (if sometimes hard for his friends to understand). The rest of the toys are also quite brave and helpful, and they don't quit on Buzz when he's not acting like himself. Even the alien "kids" are quite willing to do anything and everything to save their "parents" Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head and friends from danger. Toy Story 3 introduces some new characters who aren't as admirable as Andy's crew, but they face the consequences of their behavior in the end -- and some even get a fresh start.
What to watch for
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Violence and scariness: Spoiler alert: In one particularly harrowing/scary sequence set in a junkyard, Andy's toys narrowly escape death several times; at one point they look like they're about to fall into a very fiery incinerator. It's a tense scene, and some kids will find it upsetting. A few of the Sunnyside toys are creepy -- especially the Big Baby doll and the screeching Monkey. A few scenes meant to suggest prison culture/abuse show toys being tied up or thrown in a sandbox as "punishment" -- or, in the case of Buzz, "reset." Some bullying and harsh talk between toys; a few perilous scenes. The opening sequence includes spaceship attacks and a train falling/crashing, but it ends up being the product of Andy's imagination.
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Sexy stuff: Flirting between toy characters like Ken and Barbie (it's love at first sight!) and Buzz Lightyear and Jessie. Some innuendoes (as when Baribe tells Ken that she likes his "ascot").
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Language: Mild insults like "shut up" and "junk."
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Consumerism: Several of the Toy Story characters are recognizable brands (like Barbie, Ken, and Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head). And beyond that, the Toy Story franchise has the potential for the most merchandising tie-ins of any kid-targeted movie series. Toys, action figures, books, party supplies, plush dolls, you name it -- Disney's Toy Story characters are everywhere, especially kid favorites Woody and Buzz Lightyear.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Not an issue
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Five Word Review by redyeah
Feels like I'm home again:)
5
Toy Story 3 by rsiters
I would advise any one not only parents to see this movie. I went to see the last story movie with my oldest daughter and son when they were thhree and 5 and I went to see this one with my other children who are 9, 5, 4, 4, and 3. I have raised 7 yes 7 children on Disney movies and the 7 of us went last night to see Toy Story 3 and it was funny, hartworming and heartbreaking all at the same time. It is a MUST SEE!!!!
4
another good movie that i love by diet pepsi
i must admit as old as i am i still loved and still do love this movie it is just so cute and fluffy and fun i mean who could not fall in love with woddy and the gang agin after so long of them being gone loved it and i think you will to
5
everything it used to be, with new technology adding some effect by nycdude22
i caught the screening last night and i must say, this film was as good or better than the first one and better than the 2nd. you will laugh, cry,and remember your childhood. pixar has done it again and continue to lead the world in creativity
5
Take the whole family by dbuttrey
Amazing addition to the first two Toy Story movies! Definately see this again.
5
Five Word Review by vgolike
Exciting Funny Family safe cute
4
Toy Story 3 by areichbart
Another great Toy Story movie - but ideal for older kids. My 4 year old was a little uneasy during a couple of the scenes and even referred back to those as being "scary" for a night or two after. I would still recommend it - but probably best for ages 6 and up. Adults of course will enjoy it as well..
5
Enjoyable! by artygirl
We went as a family to see this movie. We did not see the 3D version. The story was exciting, sweet, and well told - entertained our 8 yr. old, my husband and myself. There is only one moment of the toys nearly getting put to the fire that may stress younger children, but other than that, it was suitable for everyone. Brought a tear to my eye in the end....an animated movie!
I wasn't sure I would enjoy the introduction of new toys, but they were a good addition.
We saw the matinee. I think evening prices would be still worth it, however, I wouldn't want to pay 3D & Evening prices based on the story itself. Unless you're a diehard for 3D, I don't feel like we missed out on anything. We usually skip the 3D version to save money these days.
5
For the Family by PhotosOfNewMexico
Wonderful Movie, could not be any better for the family.
Allen
5
Love to see the gang together again by missylynn77
I don't believe you can truly go wrong with kids movies..... well almost, this movie (even though it was a 3rd) was as good if not better then its predecessors, a little tear jerker but so very awesome. I sat in a theater with a guy behind me that absolutely enjoyed himself laughing, it truly was worth the money spent. Thanks to Disney and Pixar for not disappointing the fans we appreciate it. If you have the opportunity go see it you won't be sorry.