Common Sense Media Review
Witty sequel continues Toy Story magic; peril, sad scenes.
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Toy Story 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 68 parent reviews
Parents say that this animated sequel is a delightful watch for families, successfully tackling themes of friendship and purpose that resonate with both children and adults. However, some reviews express concerns about perceived intense scenes and inappropriate language, suggesting it may not be the best fit for very young viewers.
- family-friendly themes
- mixed reviews
- concerns of intensity
- enjoyable for all ages
- entertaining characters
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 133 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a captivating sequel that engages audiences with its emotional depth, humor, and the introduction of beloved characters like Jessie and Bullseye. While some feel it eclipses the original for its character development and charm, others see it as less impactful, noting occasional mature themes and a more complex narrative that might not be suited for younger viewers.
- emotional depth
- character development
- humor and fun
- family-friendly
- new characters
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In TOY STORY 2, Woody (again voiced by Tom Hanks) is stolen by devious toy store owner Al (Wayne Knight), who recognizes Woody as a valuable collectible. With Woody to complete his full set of toys from a 1950s TV show, Al can sell the collection to a toy museum in Tokyo. Woody is delighted to discover his origin and value—and to meet up with Woody's Roundup co-stars Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl (Joan Cusack), Stinky Pete the Prospector (Kelsey Grammer), and faithful steed Bullseye. They tell Woody that he'll be better off in a museum than waiting for his young owner, Andy, to outgrow him—and he starts to think they may be right. Meanwhile, Woody's friends organize a rescue mission led by Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), with a series of hilarious and breathtaking adventures naturally ensuing.
Is It Any Good?
This stunning, exciting, and very moving sequel is just as good as the already sensational original. In fact, Toy Story 2's animation is better—the toys' facial expressions should have qualified the animators for a Best Actor Oscar, and the backgrounds look more authentically lived in. The script is excellent. It's very, very funny, with sly references to classic films, and it's also insightful and touching, with a sort of Velveteen Rabbit theme about the important role that a well-loved toy plays in a child's life.
With collectibles like Beanie Babies all the rage at the time of the film's Y2K-era release—and consumer culture just as fervent, decades later—it's enormously valuable to think about the issue that Woody faces in Toy Story 2. Should he have a brief but satisfying life as the beloved friend of a child who will eventually grow up and leave him bereft? Or should he remain perfectly preserved and perpetually honored as a museum exhibit? It's a hard choice, but one that gets at the very heart of what growing up really means.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what the characters learn in Toy Story 2. Why does Woody worry about his future? What do Jessie and Pete the Prospector teach him? Are they right?
How do the characters in Toy Story 2 demonstrate courage and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Kids: What's your favorite toy? Why? Would you ever want to save it instead of play with it? Do you collect anything?
Did you notice any stereotypes? How did they make you feel? Why are accurate depictions in the media important?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 24, 1999
- On DVD or streaming : May 11, 2010
- Cast : Tom Hanks , Tim Allen , Joan Cusack
- Directors : Ash Brannon , John Lasseter , Lee Unkrich
- Studio : Pixar Animation Studios
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 92 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Awards : Academy Award - Other Category Winner , Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee , Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : June 10, 2026
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