We’ve been speculating this for four years now, and finally, the wait is over. Toy Story 4 is scheduled for release on June 4, 2017, with the director of the trilogy’s first two installments, John Lasseter, back in the director’s chair.
Ever since the third film wrapped in what many consider a testament to cinematic craft, everyone assumed that that was the end of the Toy Story Trilogy. True, we have been treated to the odd short here and there – Toy Story of Terror and Toy Story That Time Forgot – but we thought Woody and Buzz wouldn’t be back for any more big screen outings. Never say never, eh?
Pixar have yet to confirm whether the dynamic duo that have led the trilogy – Tom Hanks and Tim Allen – will return to voice lead characters Woody and Buzz Lightyear. Let’s hope so, for Toy Story wouldn’t be Toy Story without a neutoric Tom Hanks exclamation or a techno-babble Tim Allen speech.
As for the plot, it goes without saying that at this point, Pixar are keeping the story heavily under wraps (assuming they have a story). But hey, that’s where speculation comes in. And who doesn’t speculate?
Considering that Pixar have been rolling out a plethora of sequels to Pixar classics (FINDING DORY, MONSTERS UNIVERSITY), it’s almost unsurprising that Pixar would want to continue the franchise that turned it into the movie powerhouse that it is today.
Fans will no doubt be split over the announcement. Longtime fans will be more than happy to see a treasured childhood franchise expand itself further. On the other hand, some may feel that Toy Story 4 will be an unneccessary add-on, especially considering the seemingly conclusive (and heartbreaking) ending to Toy Story 3.
Fans and filmgoers will decide for themselves as the clock begins ticking and we prepare ourselves for another story with those wonderful toys.
Until more news comes through, open your calendars, and mark June 4, 2017…
If they’re doing Toy Story 4, any chance Pixar could roll out Incredible 2?
