“Toy Story of Terror”, Pixar’s first TV special, is only 22 minutes long, but it’s far better than most of the animated features released in theaters this year. The first half plays-on the classic horror movie theme, with young Bonnie and her mom stuck at a rest-stop after getting a flat tire on a rainy night. Woody, Buzz and the gang explore the motel bedroom, but soon find themselves in danger as they try to find Mr. Potato Head, who has suddenly gone missing.
Mr. Pricklepants (voiced by Timothy Dalton) dominates the first half, confidently narrating every situation, because, as Rex the dinosaur says: “He’s the only one who knows what the heck is going on!” But “Toy Story of Terror” quickly becomes Jessie’s show, as she is forced to face her fears and save the day. New characters, including Combat Carl (voiced nicely in the 3rd person by Carl Weathers) assist in the rescue mission.
Pixar realizes this is a Halloween-themed comedy aimed at both kids and adults. Even so, there are a few moments that will probably frighten the little ones. But the script is as sharp and smart as ever, borrowing from and giving the “Toy Story 2” storyline a fresh look. And the animation is fantastic. In one scene Woody and Co. appeared to be in an ACTUAL hotel bathroom.
“Toy Story of Terror” will air on Disney Channel and ABC Family several times over the next few weeks and is well worth a viewing or two. Forget about those “Monsters”, the Toys are Back in Town!