Lightyear

 

Twenty-seven years, yes, twenty-seven, after the release of Toy Story, Disney/Pixar has brought Buzz Lightyear back to the big screen in the “real life” story of the man, the myth, the legend himself in Lightyear. To be clear, this is NOT your childhood’s version of the popular character.  In fact, if you haven’t already checked out the Beyond Infinity Buzz and the Journey to Lightyear thirty-six-minute documentary on Disney+, I highly recommend you do so. I feel it important to emphasize this as it has a major impact on the film. 

Lightyear is a darker, more mature, grittier film than any of the Toy Story films. Think more along the lines of Up in terms of tone and content.  Less whimsical and more realistic. Something to keep in mind when viewing, so much so, while billed as the movie that Andy watched that made him want the Buzz toy so badly, Lightyear comes across more like the documentary of the man that inspired the film Andy loved more than the actual film he saw.  Got it?  If you do than you’ll be in the correct mind set for what takes place in Lightyear.

On to the actual film.

Disney/Pixar once again out does itself with the visuals.  Absolutely stunning and a treat for the eyes. Attention to detail, textured, and the lighting is off the charts with this one as well. Good action sequences, some get a bit intense, but the kiddos in the audience didn’t seem to have issue with them.

The story itself is rather simple and straightforward, pacing is good, and the voice acting, again, top notch. Chris Evans’ Buzz works perfectly in this iteration of the character and while yes, I missed Tim Allen, I had no problems overall buying in and enjoying his performance. That’s not to say that I was also frustrated and annoyed with the character (I didn’t have an outburst but yeah, Buzz was pissing me off) as well.  That’s more of a writing/characterization issue than an acting one.   While Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi, Dale Soules, and Uzo Aduba bring their A games as well their characters didn’t quite light up the screen. They’re fine, but don't pack much of a punch.

Not gonna lie, for me, when all is said and done, Lightyear is all about Peter Sohn’s SOX.  Think Rhino from Bolt. This scene stealer brings the joy, humor, and relatability/likeability that’s largely missing from the film.  I’m going to tell you right now, parents, go ahead and get your SOX toys now for Christmas.

Did Lightyear knock my socks (no pun intended)?  Not entirely, but it’s definitely a solid and enjoyable film. I was never bored, but never "wowed" either. It’s charming, emotional, and entertaining, but falls a bit flat overall.  There’s a certain lack of spark or “magic” to really stick the landing.  This goes back to the disconnect between what’s actually on the screen and the action/adventure Space Ranger that would make a 9-year-old (let alone the rest of the world) want a Buzz Lightyear.  A divide I’m sure will be closed in a sequel. I'm sure there will be a sequel and I'm down for it.

Lightyear gets a 7 from me.

Oh, yes.  Again, I warn you not to leave the theater immediately.  There are 3 credit scenes (top, mid, and post) in this one.