buzz lightyear movie review

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, chaz's journal, great movies, contributors.

Now streaming on:

“Lightyear” is not the origin story of the Buzz Lightyear toy from Pixar’s “ Toy Story ” series. It’s the origin story of the reason the Buzz Lightyear toy wound up in Andy’s bedroom. You see, Andy’s Mom bought a Buzz Lightyear toy back in 1995 because he was the main character in Andy’s favorite film. “This is that film,” a title card tells us before plunging us into an animated space opera starring Chris Evans as Buzz. Along the way, we’ll meet the Evil Emperor Zurg and learn where all those catchphrases folks have been saying for the past 27 years originated.

I won’t fault suspicious viewers who think this sounds like a bunch of cash-grabbing malarkey, but I should point out that this retrofitting is not without Pixar precedent. If you recall, “ Toy Story 2 ” revealed that the Woody toy was originally a tie-in to a television show from the 1950s. Which begged the question as to why the Hell a millennial like Andy would want him. At least this time, the toy came from a contemporary reference for the kid. After seeing “Lightyear,” I was full of even more questions, such as, “Would Andy’s Mom have allowed a toy version of Buzz’s partner in her house?” And, “Come on, Andy! Why didn’t you ask your Mom for a toy version of Buzz’s cat?!”

More on the kitty cat later. “Lightyear” begins with a special mission for space rangers. Buzz is partnered with Alisha Hawthorne ( Uzo Aduba ), his best friend. They share in-jokes and memories of missions past. Hawthorne is a Black woman, something you don’t often see in space movies despite all that work they did for NASA in “ Hidden Figures .” She constantly mocks Buzz’s penchant for “monologuing,” that is, recording the Shatner-like captain’s log into that device on his arm. Before each adventure, the duo touch fingers and yell “To infinity and beyond!” which I assume would have been the tagline for this film when Andy saw it. By that rationale, the makers of “Lightyear” can sue the makers of “Toy Story” for stealing it.

But I digress. Buzz Lightyear, the movie character, has the same penchant for being stubborn and following his own path that his toy did. This gets him in a heap of trouble when he disregards the advice of both his team and his ship’s autopilot navigator I.V.A.N. ( Mary McDonald-Lewis ). The turnip-shaped ship he’s flying crashes, marooning everyone on a hostile planet filled with killer vines and bugs. Guilt-ridden, Buzz makes it his mission to discover an energy source that will help them achieve hyperspace and get off the planet.

Or something like that. The most important thing to know is that every failed attempt to reach his goal results in Buzz missing four years of life back home. Everyone gets older while he stays the same age. “Lightyear” represents much of this repeated passage of time in a montage scored by Michael Giacchino ; it’s reminiscent of the opening scene in “ Up .” Buzz’s unwillingness to accept failure keeps him from celebrating the marriage of Hawthorne and her girlfriend, the birth of their daughter, and far too many in-jokes and experiences for him to count. When he finally achieves hyperspace, it costs him 22 more years. By this time, Hawthorne has passed on, leaving him a recorded message that Aduba delivers with such bittersweet beauty that there were audible sniffles at my screening. You’ll hear them at yours, too.

Hawthorne’s message is delivered to Buzz by her daughter, Izzy ( Keke Palmer ). She’s inhabiting the latest iteration of their home planet, one that’s full of hostile robots who are under the control of the suspicious “Zurg” space ship. Buzz sees a new shot at getting everyone off the planet. Unfortunately, he’s on the outs with Commander Burnside (Isiah Whitlock Jr.) the military man who used to run things, and must retrieve the turnip ship without any skilled help. Izzy offers to assist and volunteers her team of amateurs, ex-con/bomb expert Darby Steel ( Dale Soules ) and Mo Morrison ( Taika Waititi ). Their space ranger abilities are best described by Whitlock’s profane catchphrase on “The Wire.” Morrison is so bad, and causes so much trouble, that he manages to make the pig-headed Buzz look reasonable.

Director Angus MacLane and his co-writer, Jason Headley do a very good job gently mocking the type of space movie that would have existed in the 1990s. They fill “Lightyear” with details that are sure to inspire arguments on Twitter from the “Toy Story” faithful. The film’s visuals gleefully rob from other movies. I saw “ Return of the Jedi ,” “ Avatar ,” “ 2001: A Space Odyssey ” and even “ The Last Starfighter ” amongst the inspirations. I.V.A.N. looks like something Nintendo would have created. Each character fits neatly into the familiar roles the genre specifies: Flawed heroes seeking redemption, rookies hoping to prove themselves, villains with secrets, and so on. The score by Michael Giacchino is one of his best, a delectable spoof of bombastic space movie music that elevates every scene it plays under.

Of course, every great hero needs a great sidekick. “Lightyear” gives us Sox ( Peter Sohn ), an adorable cat whose job is to offer emotional support to Buzz. Sox speaks in soothing tones, sort of a cross between “ Big Hero 6 ”’s Baymax and HAL, and will purr if you scratch his stomach. He is exceptionally good at calculations and occasionally makes a noise that sounds like “Be-boop, be-boop, be-boop!” Like any cat, Sox is full of surprises both hilarious and ominous. If Pixar’s plan was to create a character whose toy would fly off the shelves, they were successful. He has one scene in the movie—you’ll know it when you see it—that elicited audible gasps of panic in the theater. I’m not a cat person, but I was stanning so hard for Sox that I wanted to—you’re mocking me, aren’t you?

No matter. As far as spin-offs go, “Lightyear” is a lot of fun. The voice talent is topnotch, especially Palmer and Evans. They have big shoes to fill; Palmer has to build on the emotional bond Aduba created, and Evans has to give us a Buzz Lightyear that’s close enough to Tim Allen ’s characterization to make us believe the film’s toy tie-in. Sohn is perfectly feline and Bill Hader has a good time with his small role as a rookie with a difficult to pronounce last name. When Zurg finally appears, he’s voiced with a deranged glee by Mr. Barbara Streisand himself, James Brolin . Hell, if his kid can play Thanos, I guess he can play Zurg.

After the lackluster “ Toy Story 4 ,” I’d had enough of this series, so much so that I expected to file a negative review. In the immortal words of Buzz Lightyear, “Not today!”

"Lightyear" will be available only in theaters on June 17.

Odie Henderson

Odie "Odienator" Henderson has spent over 33 years working in Information Technology. He runs the blogs Big Media Vandalism and Tales of Odienary Madness. Read his answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire here .

Now playing

Dirty Pop: The Boy Band Scam

Brian tallerico.

The Convert

Monica castillo.

Peyton Robinson

Sheila O'Malley

Great Absence

The Human Surge 3

Carlos aguilar, film credits.

Lightyear (2022)

Rated PG for action/peril.

107 minutes

Chris Evans as Buzz Lightyear (voice)

Keke Palmer as Izzy Hawthorne (voice)

Dale Soules as Darby Steel (voice)

Taika Waititi as Mo Morrison (voice)

Peter Sohn as Sox (voice)

Uzo Aduba as Alisha Hawthorne (voice)

James Brolin as Emperor Zurg (voice)

Mary McDonald-Lewis as I.V.A.N. (voice)

Efren Ramirez as Airman Diaz (voice)

Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside (voice)

Keira Hairston as Young Izzy (voice)

Angus MacLane

Writer (based on characters created by)

John Lasseter
Pete Docter
Andrew Stanton
Jason Headley

Cinematographer

Jeremy Lasky
Ian Megibben
Anthony Greenberg
Michael Giacchino

Latest blog posts

Apple TV+'s Bad Monkey Struggles to Find Its Voice

The Box Office is Everything: In Praise of the Window at the Front of the Theater

The Fairy Tale Shoes: Interview With the Cast and Crew of Cuckoo

On the Trail: India Donaldson on Good One

Supported by

‘Lightyear’ Review: Infinite Buzz

The new Pixar movie recounts the adventures of Star Command’s most famous Space Ranger before he was a toy.

Share full article

By A.O. Scott

The simple, charming premise of “Lightyear” is explained in an onscreen text. “In 1995, a boy named Andy got a toy from his favorite movie. This is that movie.” In other words, it’s the origin story not of a hero but of a piece of merchandise, one that started out fictional but long ago crossed the boundary into real life. More than one hard plastic Buzz Lightyear lived in my house for a long time, just like in Andy’s. To be part of the “Toy Story” universe is to be intimately acquainted with the metaphysics of the commodity form.

This Buzz is a little different, though. He isn’t a toy, and he doesn’t sound like Tim Allen, who did the voice work in the four chapters of Pixar’s “Toy Story” cycle. He’s a real live animated make-believe Space Ranger, and he speaks in the manly baritone of Chris Evans, who played Captain America over in the Marvel Universe zone of the Disney empire.

Like Cap, Buzz is square-jawed, stoic and shadowed by a hint of melancholy — a soulful soldier in an endless corporate campaign. If “Lightyear” lacks both the sublimity and the giddy inventiveness of the best “Toy Story” movies, that may be by design. This isn’t supposed to be a 21st-century masterpiece, but a kid-friendly, merch-spawning movie from 1995. (That was a pretty good year for commercial cinema , by the way.) The Buzz Lightyear toy was meant to stick around after the movie had been forgotten, and to populate a richer, more varied imaginative landscape.

“Lightyear,” directed by Angus MacLane from a script by Jason Headley, aims to please by pandering, to be good-enough entertainment. As such, it succeeds in a manner more in line with second-tier Disney animation than with top-shelf Pixar. The hero, fighting off an invasion force of alien robots, falls in with a motley group of misfits, in whom he must instill the competence and confidence necessary for the task. The action is wrapped in lessons, delivered in a manner that isn’t too preachy, about how it’s OK to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. And there is a scene-stealing animal sidekick, in this case a robot cat named SOX, voiced in perfect feline-A.I. deadpan by Peter Sohn.

A few soft-boiled Easter eggs pop up to connect “Lightyear” with various “Toy Story” episodes. Remember Zurg? He’s back, with James Brolin’s growl and a secret I won’t spoil. An early section — a kind of extended prologue to the main action — recalls the celebrated montage in “Up” that compresses a long marriage into a few short minutes. This time, the focus is on the friendship between Buzz and his closest colleague, Alisha Hawthorne (Uzo Aduba), who crash-land a crowded space vessel on a distant planet.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

Tickets & Showtimes
Trending on RT

Lightyear First Reviews: An Exhilarating, Visually Spectacular Sci-Fi Adventure for Fans who Grew Up with Toy Story

Critics say pixar's toy story -adjacent space romp is gorgeous and fun, even if it doesn't reach the studio's greatest heights, and a scene-stealing sox the cat will be everyone's new favorite sidekick..

TAGGED AS: animated , Animation , Film , films , movie , movies , Pixar , toy story

Pixar returns to theaters with Lightyear , a sort of spin-off of their Toy Story franchise featuring the in-universe inspiration for the Buzz Lightyear toy (voiced here by Chris Evans ). The first reviews of the movie celebrate its animated sci-fi action and adventure story and visuals, as well as its scene-stealing robot cat for comic relief, but it’s not necessarily the studio’s greatest release.

Here’s what critics are saying about Lightyear :

Does it live up to peak Pixar?

Lightyear is the best movie of the year so far, and the best Pixar movie in quite some time. – Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky

Lightyear emerges as a disappointing runner-up, capturing but a fraction of the comedy, thrills, and poignancy of its predecessors. – Alonso Duralde, The Wrap

Sadly it never reaches the emotional highs that Pixar was known for. – John Nguyen, Nerd Reactor

It lacks the emotional weight and meaning Pixar moviegoers expect. – Jeff Nelson, Showbiz Cheat Sheet

Not every Pixar production needs to be a new modern classic, but… Lightyear is not exactly going to occupy too much space in my mind in the weeks to come. – Aaron Neuwirth, We Live Entertainment

(Photo by ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

Will Toy Story fans love it?

The film captures the magic of what made the Toy Story franchise while confidently opening the door for new fans to the franchise. – David Gonzalez, Reel Talk Inc.

For old and new Toy Story and family adventure fans alike, this is worthwhile dream fulfillment and highly exciting entertainment. – Don Shanahan, Every Movie Has a Lesson

Angus MacLane’s animated space adventure is an absolute winner with thematic and emotional resonance, just like the Toy Story films before it. – Ryan McQuade, Awards Watch

This is a movie for Toy Story adults — the people who grew up on the movies and now hold jobs and mortgages — not Toy Story children. – Hoai-Tran Bui, Slashfilm

It won’t engage the heart or the head in the way that Toy Story films have led viewers to expect over the last quarter-century-plus. – Alonso Duralde, The Wrap

What ultimately waters down Lightyear … is an absence of the excitement and disciplined storytelling spirit that made Toy Story such a pioneering hit. – Tomris Laffly, AV Club

How is the writing?

Angus MacLane and his co-writer Jason Headley craft a transportive and imaginative screenplay… The most impressive thing about the duo’s screenplay is added layers of freshness to an already beloved character. – David Gonzalez, Reel Talk Inc.

The script… tosses off a few gently mind-bending twists, but otherwise rests comfortably within an accessible, highly allusive branch of family-friendly science fiction. – Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times

The movie feels a little episodic… like a kid recapping the plot of a movie, saying, “This happened and then this happened and then this happened.” – Fred Topel, United Press International

This feels like a story designed off a checklist rather than one told from the heart because it needs to be told. – Rob Hunter, Film School Rejects

What about a strong message for the kids?

Lightyear will show you why Andy was enamored with his movie of choice and make you remember which one did that to you too back when you were a kid. – Don Shanahan, Every Movie Has a Lesson

Lightyear is a moving movie to see in our modern, cynical times when we can see people grow beyond what they are into the people we need them to be. – Ryan McQuade, Awards Watch

There is a lesbian kiss in Lightyear … This is a great way to have LGBTQ+ representation and inclusion on the screen, and should be applauded. – Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky

A tired message better taught in Monsters University : never underestimate the hard work, determination, and loyalty of your allies. – Tomris Laffly, AV Club

Does it play well as a sci-fi action movie?

Lightyear is still an extremely fun action sci-fi film that is better than most animated films released in a given year. – Ross Bonaime, Collider

The space action is genuinely thrilling with stakes as high as Gravity . – Fred Topel, United Press International

Pixar has dabbled in the action genre with The Incredibles and doubles down here with visually impressive, grin-inducing shootouts and fights. – Jonathan Sim, ComingSoon.net

It works out well enough to be entertaining overall for people who enjoy animated films that take place in outer space. – Carla Hay, Culture Mix

Offers exhilarating action sequences, involving racing rockets, robot armies, and a truly breathtaking space walk. – Kristy Puchko, Mashable

The outer-space visuals and action-packed fight sequences are undoubtedly riveting. – Mike Massie, Gone With the Twins

Chris Evans as Buzz Lightyear in Lightyear (2022)

How are the visuals?

If it needs to be said, the film is a visual triumph, with stunningly photo-real images and richly detailed deep-space locations. – Scott Mendelson, Forbes

Lightyear is easily Pixar’s best-looking movie yet. It isn’t even a question. – Tessa Smith, Mama’s Geeky

One of the most aesthetically appealing features Pixar has done. The environments’ scale and scope are dazzling. Many gorgeous frames are pure art. – Courtney Howard, Fresh Fiction

With stunning space sequences, Lightyear adds to a genre rich in space beauty with one of the best-looking films of the year. – David Gonzalez, Reel Talk Inc.

Lightyear has visual pizzazz, from the hyperspace sequences to the heretofore hidden surprises that emerge from those colorful buttons and dials on the Space Ranger uniforms. – Alonso Duralde, The Wrap

The visuals are definitely up to Pixar standards, but the visual effects in Lightyear are not really game-changing or extraordinary. – Carla Hay, Culture Mix

How is Chris Evans as the new voice of Buzz?

While Evans’s version of Buzz is akin to Tim Allen’s interpretation, this version is given the space to mold something fresh. – Ryan McQuade, Awards Watch

Evans puts his stamp on the character and makes it relatively easy to forget about the re-voice casting and fall back into the world of Buzz. – David Gonzalez, Reel Talk Inc.

Evans also does a commendable job of taking on the iconic role of Buzz Lightyear, giving the character just the right amount of gravitas and heroism that he needs, but mixed with just a dash of ignorance and naivety. – Ross Bonaime, Collider

He’s intentionally impersonating George Clooney for the entire movie; that’s how it sounds, anyway. – Alonso Duralde, The Wrap

[He] does a creditable job… though a bit of that Allen snap gets lost. The character seems less funny, a notch more ordinary. – Owen Gleiberman, Variety

Peter Sohn as the voice of Sox the cat in Lightyear (2022)

Will fans love the new characters too?

One of the movie’s greatest strengths is that it introduces characters with memorable personalities and quirks, with Sox being the one that viewers might be talking about the most. – Carla Hay, Culture Mix

Sox immediately belongs in the pantheon of great Pixar secondary characters, alongside Edna Mode, Dug, and Bing Bong. – Ross Bonaime, Collider

One of the best character debuts in any Pixar film. – David Gonzalez, Reel Talk Inc.

[Sox the cat is] one of the best new characters in recent Pixar memory. – Ryan McQuade, Awards Watch

Despite feeling a bit derivative of Baymax in Big Hero 6 , [Sox] the cat brings much-needed charm, heart and smile with his cute behavior, funny situations, and loyalty as a companion. – John Nguyen, Nerd Reactor

Izzy is an instant fan fav. She has the charm, the comedy, determination, overall countenance, natural hair, and all, of a character people can relate to. – Catalina Combs, Black Girl Nerds

This [movie] is packed to the gills with vibrant characters and creepy villains, most of which are sadly more interesting than Buzz himself. – Tomris Laffly, AV Club

Should they have just titled the movie “ Sox the Cat “?

His presence alone makes this movie worth the price of admission. – Jeff Nelson, Showbiz Cheat Sheet

Suffice it to say, Sox would be the toy every kid would have wanted after this film, not a Buzz Lightyear. – Aaron Neuwirth, We Live Entertainment

Hey, if Disney wants to make a Sox streaming show or spin-off movie, I’ll happily watch that. – Scott Mendelson, Forbes

Is it a good sign for the future of Pixar?

If Luca , Turning Red , and Lightyear is the vision of Pixar going forward… then we are looking at a whole new renaissance by this prestigious animated institution. – Ryan McQuade, Awards Watch

If this is what Pixar can accomplish without really stretching its creative or emotional talents, just imagine what they could do if they gave it their all. – Rob Hunter, Film School Rejects

Lightyear opens in theaters on June 17, 2022.

On an Apple device? Follow Rotten Tomatoes on Apple News .

Related News

All Alien Movies In Order: How to Watch Chronologically

The Freakier Friday Cast on New Music, Filming the Iconic Scream Scene, and More

Weekend Box Office: Deadpool & Wolverine Crosses $1 Billion

Everything We Saw at Disney’s 2024 D23 Entertainment Showcase

The Most Anticipated Movies of 2024

The Most Anticipated Movies of 2025

Movie & TV News

Featured on rt.

August 13, 2024

August 12, 2024

30 Most Popular Movies Right Now: What to Watch In Theaters and Streaming

Top Headlines

The 100 Best Movies of 2009, Ranked by Tomatometer –
All Alien Movies In Order: How to Watch Chronologically –
30 Most Popular Movies Right Now: What to Watch In Theaters and Streaming –
25 Most Popular TV Shows Right Now: What to Watch on Streaming –
All 55 Billion-Dollar Movies, Ranked by Tomatometer –
50 Best 1980s Cult Movies & Classics –

Lightyear is a good movie — and an even better IP grab

Lightyear will makes lots of money, and sell even more toys.

by Alex Abad-Santos

The running joke about Disney-Pixar movies is how well they imbue feelings into objects and lifeforms that don’t often clearly display them. Finding Nemo is about how fish have feelings. Ratatouille is about how rats have feelings. Cars is about how automobiles have feelings. Even Pixar’s logo, a little anthropomorphized lamp, seems to have feelings.

Similarly then, Lightyear is about how white men have feelings.

Lightyear centers on Buzz Lightyear. You likely know Buzz as a starring character in the vaunted, 27-year-old Toy Story franchise about a boy named Andy and his secretly sentient batch of action figures, dolls, and playthings. However, Lightyear is not a continuing solo adventure of that tiny plastic hero (who was voiced by Tim Allen). According to Disney and Pixar lore, Lightyear (2022) is the actual 1995 sci-fi flick that inspired the Buzz Lightyear toys in Andy’s universe. Andy saw Lightyear and wanted the action figure, which his mother purchased for him in the original Toy Story.

Buzz Lightyear in the Toy Story movies is simply a toy representation of this original, fictional Buzz Lightyear (who is voiced by Chris Evans). Despite their differences, a shared idea of both Buzzes Lightyear — daring, stubborn, strong — is understood by Andy and by us. It’s a pretty high concept for a children’s movie.

Lightyear itself is a sweet musing on the value of friendship, an origin story that gives the titular character a sense of purpose, and a zippy ride through an often-gorgeous cosmic world. There’s also a hilarious robot cat named Sox; I am frightened by my own affection toward Sox. All in all, Lightyear is easily in the top half of Disney and Pixar’s filmography. It’s a charming and, at times, acutely funny space adventure.

Yet, there’s something beneath the surface that compromises Disney and Pixar’s proficient storytelling. It’s the idea that Lightyear exists not to just give us a free-standing movie about this space ranger’s feelings, but rather to take advantage of Disney’s very lucrative intellectual property. For a character whose famous words are “to infinity and beyond,” Lightyear feels predictable, content to play within Disney’s plum boundaries rather than push Disney and Pixar into a thrilling future.

If you think about Lightyear ’s existence too much, your brain may start to itch with questions.

Lightyear is animated the way Andy from Toy Story is animated, so does Andy perceive Lightyear as an animated movie, or is it live-action? Can Andy, who is 6 years old at the start of the first Toy Story , even understand what the movie is about? And how does Lightyear even exist in our own universe, 27 years after its debut? How did it get here? And why is it here?

Like a faceless god, the movie does not give any concrete answers to those queries. Instead, it gives us a story about failure (kind of) and friendship.

This Buzz Lightyear, along with his bestie, space ranger Alisha Hawthorne (Uzo Aduba), is part of a crew responsible for exploring an unexplored planet. They quickly discover this uncharted world is a hostile one, full of giant bugs and strangling vines, which is made even more complicated when some decisive action from Buzz leaves the entire crew of their turnip-shaped spacecraft stranded there indefinitely.

Buzz Lightyear and Alisha Hawthorne in Lightyear

Buzz is intent on righting his wrong, trying again and again to travel back home by hyperspeed — the velocity needed to get the entire crew to jump through space. He gets closer with every attempt, but still faces the nagging problem of the unbreakable relationship between time and space. Each of Buzz’s trips are just minutes for him, but they’re four years for his marooned friends, all of whom are aging normally. Buzz doesn’t see a problem with this because he sees sacrifice as virtuous (it’s one of the qualities that makes him similar to Chris Evans’s other major Disney character, Captain America). This is, in fact, the Buzz Lightyear we know and love — one who is brave and loyal, and doesn’t always have the best ideas.

There’s a question implicit in the higher-budget, better-cast, more winking IP adaptations. You can feel it in The Lego Movie , in many of Disney+’s TV series, in the stills for Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie film. Sure, it seems to say, this is a project based on a familiar intellectual property, made to almost-surgically extract dollars from the wallets of longtime fans … but can’t it still be creative? Isn’t it still fun?

Lightyear ratchets that up yet another notch. The whole premise of Lightyear is that the Buzz Lightyear action figures in Toy Story were actually just promotions for this movie; that this film is not just the IP we know and love but something more authentic. Lightyear is, according to Disney-Pixar’s retrofitted storyline, the actual real-deal story. And in a creative landscape devoted to ransacking the past, isn’t this a pretty clever idea?

This is slightly complicated by a sensibility in Lightyear that, as an audience, we’re smart enough to understand the way money-grabs work. It’s hard to take Disney’s smirking critique about consumerism too seriously because Disney is the force that it pretends to laugh at.

The very many movies in the Toy Story franchise are about how these cookie-cutter toys actually are individuals with human feelings that aren’t disposable. This nifty caveat allows for new Lightyear merchandise and Toy Story toys, plushies, tents, and costumes to exist side by side in Disney’s stores .

Lightyear is very much mining existing nostalgia and brand name to pad its box office haul. Depending on its financial success, there may be several more Lightyear movies in the future. The ability to keep churning out Buzz Lightyear content is especially convenient for Disney since 2019’s Toy Story 4 was supposed to be the end of the Toy Story movies.

But the funny thing is: There’s plenty in Lightyear that’s good enough to stand on its own. It didn’t need to be about Buzz Lightyear. “Brave and loyal without the best ideas” could apply to lots of characters. It’s Buzz’s friendships that make this movie.

First, with Alisha. While Buzz reacts to tragedy by trying to force correction, Alisha adapts. She leads the rest of the crew in creating a home for themselves on this new planet: constructing buildings and living spaces, building labs to cultivate resources and sustenance, and learning to defend against the planet’s very large bugs. Scientists and architects and engineers thrive.

Alisha also starts her own life.

She begins to date a fellow crew member, which blooms into romance. As the years tick by, Alisha and her partner have kids and their kids have kids. Buzz, who returns as often as a leap year, misses out on so much of her life.

Alisha doesn’t resent him. She knows her best friend needs to try to save his crew — even if they might not need saving, given how well they’ve adapted. She understands that Buzz will keep charging into space four years at a time, so she gives him a robot cat named Sox (Peter Sohn) to keep him company.

This is Buzz Lightyear and his new crew. Notice Sox the robot cat (front). He is the best part of this movie.

Eventually, Buzz’s final space run is successful and he has the solution to get everyone home! But unfortunately Buzz returns 22 years into the future, and his adopted planet is now under siege from a robot threat. Buzz and Sox are the colony’s best hope, but also find themselves responsible for Alisha’s sunny, but extremely green granddaughter, Izzy (Keke Palmer), and her companions, the cowardly Mo Morrison (Taika Waititi) and octogenarian ex-con Darby Steel (Dale Soules). It’s time for the lessons of friendship, round two.

Izzy, her ragtag crew, and Buzz inevitably teach each other about heroism and life — the kind of lessons that Pixar is so adept at telling. These emotional beats are hit so precisely, Pixar should think about charging its competitors for the clinic. Buzz will grow a heart. Izzy will learn more about her grandmother. Sox will learn to love despite his android circuitry.

Lightyear ’s conclusion telegraphs another movie: Buzz, Izzy, Sox, and all the friends they made are strapped in and prepared to fly into hyperspeed. And while I’m sure it’ll be a great time, I’m just a little more hesitant about joining along.

The appeal of Buzz Lightyear — the toy and now the astronaut — has been that the character dares to dream despite an entire world telling him it isn’t practical. His existence is supposed to be a testament to endless possibility, and his adherence to it is so stubborn that it borders on frustrating. Lightyear gives us a fleeting glimpse into that, but this good-enough movie isn’t the slightest bit concerned with the unknown. There’s no thought to mapping out a future for the character that feels the slightest bit surprising or inventive, especially compared to the places that the original Toy Story took him.

The box office might go to infinity, but we’ll never get anything beyond the limits of intellectual property.

Business & Finance

Today, Explained

Understand the world with a daily explainer plus the most compelling stories of the day.

This is the title for the native ad

More in Culture

The fight over Jordan Chiles’s bronze medal is barely about gymnastics

The Olympian was asked to give her medal back — and the racist attacks began.

What George Orwell’s 1984 can teach us about 2024

Orwell prized clear communication, so why are people misusing his name?

Industry is the soapy, sleazy spectacle prestige TV is missing

How is a show about banking more fun than anything else?

The case for pole dancing in the Olympics

Pole dancing is basically gymnastics. But the world isn’t ready for it.

Tim Walz is riding the wave of the vibes election

This moment is all about feelings. Enter a friendly Midwestern governor armed with dad jokes.

Paris reminded us why we love the Olympics

Paris hosted a great Olympics. That’ll probably be the exception going forward.

Lightyear follows a familiar Pixar theme — and that’s its biggest problem

By echoing so many past Pixar messages, the Toy Story tie-in opens itself up to comparisons and comes out behind

by Tasha Robinson

Buzz Lightyear and his robot cat Sox stand in the cockpit of an X-wing-like ship in Lightyear

For the last seven years, one of the most popular critical analyses of Pixar Animation Studios movies has come from a Tumblr meme. Granted, it’s an insightful meme. The idea that Pixar movies all boil down to “ What if [random object] had feelings? ” does hold water, and given how much the studio built its name on the idea of evoking profound, powerful adult emotions in animated movies, it’s an understandable lens for viewing Pixar work.

But the studio’s new science fiction movie Lightyear suggests another way of looking at Pixar that’s a little less simple, but just as relevant. Arguably, Pixar’s strongest movies are about people (or toys, rats, robots, anthropomorphized emotions, etc.) figuring out how to accept who they are and how to live with each other. Lightyear forges new ground for Pixar with an ambitious story built around a new alien world and a new human society, focusing on how one man deals with his own shortcomings and losses over the course of more than half a century of lost time. But at heart, it links back to that core Pixar concept about opening up to other people as a first step toward finding a comfortable place in the world. That should be a resonant theme — certainly past Pixar movies, from Inside Out to Up to Coco to the original Toy Story , have drawn powerful narratives from the same message. But Lightyear takes such a disjointed, surface-level approach to the idea that it doesn’t land as powerfully as it should.

Lightyear has a slightly complicated place in Pixar’s franchise thinking. It’s meant to be a fictional artifact from the Toy Story world: the favorite sci-fi movie of Toy Story ’s central human character, Andy. Toy Story ’s toy version of Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen) is a piece of merch from the Lightyear movie, where Buzz is a human astronaut (voiced by the MCU’s Captain America, Chris Evans), part of an elite team of Space Rangers. The bits and pieces of Lightyear ’s arc implied throughout the Toy Story movies — like Buzz’s various pull-string catchphrases and the existence of his big purple robot enemy Zurg — were all elements Finding Dory co-director Angus MacLane and his co-writer Jason Headley ( Onward ) had to deal with in plotting Lightyear . (MacLane told Polygon in an interview that they ignored the previous Toy Story animated spinoff, 2000’s film and TV series Buzz Lightyear of Star Command .)

A grubby Buzz Lightyear, Izzy, and robot cat Sox stand together in Lightyear

But those connections aside, Lightyear is meant to stand entirely on its own as an adult science fiction story rather than a movie primarily aimed at 6-year-olds like Andy. Which certainly explains some of its bigger ideas. As the film opens, Buzz is part of a human mission into deep space, aboard a bulbous, turnip-shaped ship full of cryogenically frozen explorers. When the ship is diverted to explore life signs on a planet en route to their final destination, Buzz and his commanding officer Alisha (Uzo Aduba) are thawed out to investigate. The planet proves dangerous, and Buzz tries to pilot the ship to safety, but he miscalculates, damaging the fuel crystal that lets the ship enter hyperspace and leaving it stranded in hostile territory.

Obsessed with fixing his error, Buzz takes on a series of experimental missions to space to test new fuel crystals. But because he approaches the speed of light in those missions, time passes more slowly for him than for the colonists he left behind. After every mission, most of which blur by in a quick montage, he returns to find Alisha older — first married to a woman she met while he was gone, then with young children, then adult children, and so forth. The colonists move on as well, settling in on their new planet and adapting to it, until they finally decide there’s no point in devoting resources to Buzz’s ongoing mission.

That’s a lot to take in as just the scene-setting for the actual action of the film. Too much of it whips by as if there are no questions to be asked and nothing worth mentioning about the ship’s original mission or the society it came from, the time that passes between Buzz’s missions, or whether anyone starts questioning their worth before the hammer finally drops on them. There’s nothing in that setup about how Buzz lives from one day to the next when he’s on the planet, or whether Alisha ever tries to talk him out of his obsessive space jaunts. It’s all presented as the basic buy-in for the rest of the movie, which deals with Buzz’s refusal to accept the future he’s suddenly found himself in, and his struggle to let go of the past.

As a Flash Gordon-style space adventure packed with fast-moving alien creepy-crawlies, snappy banter, and big explosive action, Lightyear is perfectly enjoyable. There’s a lot of funny business about Buzz narrating his actions as if he’s the hero in a space serial, and a strange, silly scene about the sandwiches of the future. It’s no wonder all this would appeal to Andy and his generation, who likely see it much like 6-year-olds in our world might: as an exciting rush through a world packed with killer robots, icky monster-bugs, and cool laser swords.

But Lightyear is so clearly calibrated to be something more: a thoughtful meditation on the passage of time. Its biggest ideas all point to the need to connect with people and live in the present rather than the past. It’s a warning about all the things we might miss if we fixate on past mistakes instead of letting them go. And on that level, the film never hits as hard as it’s meant to.

Izzy, Mo, Darby, Buzz Lightyear, and Sox the robot cat ride together in a vehicle as Buzz narrates his actions into his wrist communicator in Lightyear

In part, that’s because the script spends too much time explaining those themes. In part, it’s because there’s so much other business getting in the way. A robot cat named Sox, given to Buzz as a therapeutic tool to help him adapt to his time skips (and voiced by The Good Dinosaur director Peter Sohn), serves up plenty of gleeful visual and verbal jokes, but never serves his primary purpose. Buzz’s new allies Izzy (Keke Palmer), Mo (Taika Waititi), and Darby (Dale Soules) each get micro-arcs of their own, but they’re largely underdeveloped characters who mostly exist to remind Buzz that he needs to learn the value of teamwork — a moral lesson that crops up so often in kids’ movies that it’s hard to see it as an adult value here.

The way that arc plays out is particularly familiar. In the setup sequence, Buzz repeatedly refuses to accept a rookie on his mission with Alisha. He insists that he works alone and doesn’t need help or input from others. He’s echoing another big-chinned hero who has to learn the value of teamwork: Mr. Incredible, whose similar rejection of a rookie sidekick in the opening sequence of Pixar’s The Incredibles drives the entire plot of that movie.

But Lightyear doesn’t have the same narrative neatness or force. Buzz continues to echo his “I’ve got this, I don’t need help” line as he’s making his big mistake, but there’s no real evidence that teamwork could have solved the problem, or that the rookie he’s shoving aside had anything to offer. His error stems more from overconfidence in his own abilities, and not listening to the ship’s computerized autopilot. There’s only a slight disjunction between “accept other people’s help” and “listen to a robot’s calculations,” but it’s still a fairly serious one that highlights the little ways Lightyear doesn’t entirely connect its emotional dots. When Zurg finally emerges — and unlike so many recent Pixar movies, Lightyear is absolutely a story with an actual old-school villain — there’s a thematic connection to the film’s morals there as well, but one that doesn’t fully make sense within the world MacLane and Headley have laid out.

None of this keeps Lightyear from being a satisfying experience in any given scene, as Buzz and his various teammates outfight aliens and out-think robots, all on the road to the inevitable moment where Buzz finds a way to accept his life and what he’s made of it. The problem is in the ways the pieces all add up into something that never digs as deeply into these characters as it needs to. The Pixar craft is on full display, as MacLane and his team fill the screen with a polished, immersive world full of emotive, likable characters. (Notably, many of them are people of color in roles that don’t revolve around their racial heritage — a welcome reflection of Pixar’s ongoing steps forward in on-screen representation.)

But they’re up against so many past Pixar successes that mine similar emotions and ideas. They all have different constructions, but most of them have more power, in part because they bring more passion to bear. So many of the best Pixar movies are about characters struggling to fulfill one dream or another, but Lightyear makes it clear early on that its hero’s dream is unworthy and misguided, making it harder for viewers to fully engage with his battle to make it happen. (Headley’s Onward takes a similar tack in its climax, but at least lets the audience root for the heroes throughout the rest of the story.)

And that dream might have stronger roots if Lightyear spent a little more time on establishing about who Buzz was in the world he wants to get back to. It’s clear what he’s lost, but not what he values: It’s clear who he is, but not who he wants to be. Certainly viewers will fill in those blanks themselves based on what they value, but that rush to put all the narrative pieces in place leaves too many of the details in viewers’ hands. Seen through that enduring Tumblr lens, Lightyear could be summed up as: “What if people wracked with guilt and regret had feelings?” But seen as another Pixar film about acceptance and connection, it feels like a less heartfelt, more calculated echo of some of the studio’s more personal projects. It’s a familiar message, in a pleasantly shiny but visibly flawed new shell.

Lightyear debuts in theaters on June 17.

Entertainment

Patch Notes

The best of Polygon in your inbox, every Friday.

This is the title for the native ad

More in Reviews

You need just one button in this bullet hell gem

The Latest ⚡️

an image, when javascript is unavailable

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter

site categories

Pixar’s ‘lightyear’: film review.

Chris Evans voices the big-screen Space Ranger who became a 'Toy Story' action figure in the sci-fi adventure spinoff, also featuring Uzo Aduba, Keke Palmer and Taika Waititi.

By David Rooney

David Rooney

Chief Film Critic

Share on Facebook
Share to Flipboard
Send an Email
Show additional share options
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest
Share on Reddit
Share on Tumblr
Share on Whats App
Print the Article
Post a Comment

Buzz Lightyear (voice of Chris Evans) and EVIL EMPEROR in LIGHTYEAR.

The conflict in Pixar ’s ageless 1995 breakthrough feature, Toy Story , hinged on the displacement anxiety of old-fashioned pull-string cowboy doll Woody when his young owner Andy acquired a popular new action figure called Buzz Lightyear . The movie named for that Space Ranger, Lightyear , extends the Toy Story franchise by showing us the sci-fi adventure that hooked Andy on the character and inspired the merch. This is a funny spinoff with suspense and heart, a captivatingly spirited toon take on splashy live-action retro popcorn entertainment. The title character is given splendid voice by Chris Evans , balancing heroism and human fallibility with infectious warmth.

Full credits

Production company: Pixar Animation Studios Distribution: Disney Cast: Chris Evans, Uzo Aduba, Peter Sohn, Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi, Dale Soules, James Brolin, Mary McDonald-Lewis, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Efren Ramirez, Keira Hairston, Bill Hader Director: Angus MacLane Screenwriters: Jason Headley, Angus MacLane Story: Angus MacLane, Matthew Aldrich, Jason Headley Producer: Galyn Susman Executive producers: Andrew Stanton, Pete Docter Directors of photography: Jeremy Lasky, Ian Megibben Production designer: Tim Evatt Music: Michael Giacchino Editor: Anthony J. Greenberg Sound designer: Ren Klyce Animation supervisor: David DeVan Character supervisor: Mark Piretti Effects supervisor: Bill Watral Visual effects supervisor: Jane Yen Casting: Kevin Reher, Natalie Lyon

THR Newsletters

More from The Hollywood Reporter

John cena on coaching ‘jackpot’ co-star awkwafina to punch him and his ‘the bear’ cameo, sally field, ‘where the crawdads sing’ director olivia newman adapting ‘remarkably bright creatures’ (exclusive), ‘blink twice’ review: channing tatum and naomi ackie in zoë kravitz’s skillful but scattered #metoo thriller, ‘jackpot’ review: john cena and awkwafina make a winning team in paul feig’s hilariously violent action-comedy, blackberry’s rise and fall to be subject of documentary from mark wahlberg’s unrealistic ideas (exclusive), ny film festival: pablo larraín’s angelina jolie starrer ‘maria,’ elton john doc among spotlight highlights.

Cast & crew
User reviews

While spending years attempting to return home, marooned Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear encounters an army of ruthless robots commanded by Zurg who are attempting to steal his fuel source. While spending years attempting to return home, marooned Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear encounters an army of ruthless robots commanded by Zurg who are attempting to steal his fuel source. While spending years attempting to return home, marooned Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear encounters an army of ruthless robots commanded by Zurg who are attempting to steal his fuel source.

Angus MacLane
Matthew Aldrich
Jason Headley
Chris Evans
Keke Palmer
1.1K User reviews
259 Critic reviews
60 Metascore
2 wins & 23 nominations

Top cast 13

Buzz Lightyear

Izzy Hawthorne

Mo Morrison

Darby Steel

Alisha Hawthorne

Commander Burnside

Featheringhamstan

Airman Díaz
All cast & crew
Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

Trivia The oxygen tanks in the movie are actually the scream canisters used in Monsters, Inc.
Goofs The hyper speed shown in the movie is extremely slow considering the distances involved. When Buzz is doing the fuel tests his speed is measured in c, with 1c being 100% hyper speed. In physics 1c is the speed of light. The text at the start of the movie states T'Kani Prime is 4.2 million light years from Earth, which means it would take 4.2 million years to travel that distance at the speed of light. Given the Turnip is supposed to be an exploration ship, an 8 million year round trip does not seem practical.

Buzz Lightyear : To infinity...

[point his finger to her]

Izzy : [looks stunned] Are you trying to get me to pull your finger?

Mo Morrison : Don't fall for it.

Buzz Lightyear : No, not like that! It's just... Ugh. Sorry, it's a thing your grandma and I used to do.

Darby Steel : Ew.

Crazy credits [SPOILER] There are 3 scenes during the end credits: a mid-credits scene about two minutes into the credits that shows a bug being blasted by the laser shield, a post-credits scene immediately before the studio logos where DERIC finishes giving directions to the storehouse and realizes everyone has already left, and a final scene after the studio logos revealing that Zurg survived the explosion.
Connections Featured in AniMat's Crazy Cartoon Cast: The Rat of All My Dreams (2020)

User reviews 1.1K

TheLittleSongbird
Jan 26, 2024
How long is Lightyear? Powered by Alexa
Will Zurg ever get a spin off?
August 3, 2022 (United States)
United States
Official Site
Lightyear - Cảnh Sát Vũ Trụ
Pixar Animation Studios - 1200 Park Avenue, Emeryville, California, USA (Studio)
Pixar Animation Studios
The Walt Disney Company
See more company credits at IMDbPro
$200,000,000 (estimated)
$118,307,188
$50,577,961
Jun 19, 2022
$226,425,420

Technical specs

Runtime 1 hour 45 minutes
Dolby Digital
Dolby Atmos
IMAX 6-Track
Dolby Surround 7.1

More to explore

Movie Reviews

Movie review: pixar's 'lightyear'.

Bob Mondello

Buzz Lightyear flies to infinity and beyond in Lightyear , the fifth film in Pixar's Toy Story saga.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

Upcoming Movies and TV shows
Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

What's the Tomatometer®?
Login/signup

Movies in theaters

Opening this week
Top box office
Coming soon to theaters
Certified fresh movies

Movies at home

Fandango at Home
Prime Video
Most popular streaming movies
What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

78% Cuckoo Link to Cuckoo
97% Dìdi Link to Dìdi
97% Good One Link to Good One

New TV Tonight

95% Industry: Season 3
93% Bad Monkey: Season 1
100% Solar Opposites: Season 5
-- Emily in Paris: Season 4
-- Bel-Air: Season 3
-- Rick and Morty: The Anime: Season 1
-- SEAL Team: Season 7
-- RuPaul's Drag Race Global All Stars: Season 1
-- Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures: Season 2
-- Worst Ex Ever: Season 1

Cast & Crew

Angus MacLane

Jason Headley

Screenwriter

Galyn Susman

Pete Docter

Executive Producer

Andrew Stanton

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

For Parents
For Educators
Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

Get the app
Movie Reviews
Best Movie Lists
Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best TV Lists
Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
Common Sense Selections for TV
Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

Book Reviews
Best Book Lists
Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Game Reviews
Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Podcast Reviews
Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

App Reviews
Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

YouTube Channel Reviews
YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

How to Prepare Your Kids for School After a Summer of Screen Time

Family Tech Planners
Digital Skills
All Articles
Latino Culture
Black Voices
Asian Stories
Native Narratives
LGBTQ+ Pride
Best of Diverse Representation List

Multicultural Books

YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations

Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories

Common sense media reviewers.

Buzz origin story is exceptionally animated and inclusive.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Teaches viewers about the power of teamwork and ap

Promotes teamwork, family, empathy, perseverance,

Buzz is brave, thorough, determined, and loyal. He

Commander Alisha Hawthorne is Black and a lesbian;

The space rangers are attacked by sentient vines o

A character announces her engagement and is later

"Shoot," as well as mild bathroom humor when frien

Nothing on camera, but Disney-Pixar movies have to

Educational Value

Teaches viewers about the power of teamwork and appreciating that even "rookies" can make important contributions.

Positive Messages

Promotes teamwork, family, empathy, perseverance, and human connection. Also encourages people to ask for help and value others' talents, even those of someone still new to a job or a mission.

Positive Role Models

Buzz is brave, thorough, determined, and loyal. He's committed to finishing his mission. Alisha is a courageous, caring, and encouraging commanding officer and friend. Izzy is eager to help and overcomes various obstacles to make a difference. Mo and Darby summon their courage and use their know-how to be part of Buzz's team.

Diverse Representations

Commander Alisha Hawthorne is Black and a lesbian; she's eventually shown with her Asian wife and their multicultural family. This is a milestone for Disney-Pixar, which has previously only hinted at this type of organic representation. Buzz's crew of helpers includes an older White woman, a culturally ambiguous man of color (voiced by Taika Waititi), and a young Black woman. Also body-type diversity.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.

Violence & Scariness

The space rangers are attacked by sentient vines on an alien planet. The vines seem to swallow them. People build shields and use other tools/means to combat the hostile being on the planet. Zurg chases after Buzz and sends armed robots to capture him. Zurg personally wants to destroy Buzz. People fight robots with weapons, breaking the robots into pieces. Buzz fights with and outruns commanding officers who want to ground his mission.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

A character announces her engagement and is later seen holding hands and kissing her wife at an anniversary celebration.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

"Shoot," as well as mild bathroom humor when friends misinterpret Buzz sticking his finger out to say "To infinity and beyond" as a "pull my finger" joke.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Nothing on camera, but Disney-Pixar movies have tons of merchandise tie-ins including games, toys, apparel, and more.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Lightyear is a Pixar-animated origin film for the character who inspired the Buzz Lightyear action figure from Toy Story . In the movie, space ranger Buzz (voiced by Chris Evans ), his crew, and an entire spacecraft filled with people is marooned on an alien planet. Buzz's attempts to get everyone home end up transporting him far into the future, where evil robots controlled by Emperor Zurg ( James Brolin ) have taken over the planet. Sci-fi/action violence includes chases and weapons-based fights with robots, Zurg, and the planet's pesky vines. Positive diverse representation includes a Black lesbian supporting character who discusses her partner (and later wife) in a way that makes it clear that everyone supports her identity and relationship. This is a milestone for Disney-Pixar, which has only hinted at this type of representation in previous films like Finding Dory and Beauty and the Beast . Teamwork, perseverance, empathy, and courage are prominent themes, and the film encourages people to ask for help and value the talents that others bring to the table. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

Parents say (42)
Kids say (45)

Based on 42 parent reviews

Not worth the time or money

What's the story.

LIGHTYEAR begins with a reminder that, in 1995, a boy named Andy was given a Buzz Lightyear action figure from his favorite movie -- and this is that movie. (In other words, this movie is not the origin story of Andy's beloved toy and Woody's best friend: This movie is positioned as the reason the toy existed in the first place.) The Buzz in this movie (voiced by Chris Evans ) is indeed a Space Ranger who takes his missions very seriously. While he's investigating an alien planet with his commanding officer/best friend, Commander Alisha Hawthorne ( Uzo Aduba ), and a rookie who has a lot to learn about being a space ranger, sentient vines start entangling them and their spacecraft, and all 1,200 passengers end up marooned there. Trying to fix the spacecraft, Buzz volunteers to undergo a series of test flights (with help from a brilliant therapy cat robot named Sox) to see whether they're capable of achieving hyperspace and getting off the planet. But Buzz discovers that each flight costs him time -- four years or more. In between test flights, he reconnects with Alisha and her growing family (wife, son, and eventually granddaughter). But once the lonely and singularly focused Buzz finally breaks the hyperspace code, he finds that an army of killer robots and their leader, Emperor Zurg ( James Brolin ), are terrorizing the planet. Buzz must work with a misfit group of three inexperienced space ranger cadets -- eager young Izzy ( Keke Palmer ), kind Mo ( Taika Waititi ), and jaded explosives specialist Darby Steel (Dale Soules) -- to help defeat Zurg.

Is It Any Good?

With its fabulous animation, honorable hero, and lovable sidekicks, this tribute to a host of space adventures is a story of perseverance, teamwork, and friendship. This version of Buzz Lightyear is ideally voiced by Evans, who already has that perfect Captain America halo of courage, loyalty, and hard work. For him, finishing a mission is paramount -- even above his own comfort or sense of belonging. His relationship with Alisha/Commander Hawthorne is a highlight, because they have complementary strengths and trust and respect each other. Aduba does a lovely job of expressing the commander's concern, love, and humor for her space ranger partner/bestie. Similarly, Palmer, Soules, and Waititi are hilarious as the ragtag trio who test Buzz's ability to rely on others, ask for help, and act as a patient and encouraging team leader. And Peter Sohn 's scene-stealing portrayal of Sox the brilliant and candid robo cat is sure to delight viewers of all ages.

Director Angus MacLane impresses with the technical excellence of the movie's animation: Textured hair, Sox's fur, and the aggressive vines are as amazingly detailed as the epic landscapes of space and the planet on which all the action takes place. Composer Michael Giacchino's score is spot-on for '90s blockbusters, and the script tips its hat to nearly all of the big space-based films, from 2001 to Star Wars and back again. And Disney takes a big step forward (for them) on the representation and inclusion front by featuring a Black lesbian character. There's no coming out necessary for Commander Hawthorne; Buzz knows that his best friend's partner would be a "her," just as she knew he would need Sox because he'd end up lonely after all the time jumps. Animated movies need more organic inclusion, and Lightyear handles it in a natural way. Ultimately, although Lightyear isn't at the top of Pixar's "heartwarming" (and heartrending) scale, it's far more than the cash cow some viewers expected.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about whether Lightyear brings the Toy Story franchise to a satisfying conclusion. Do you think the movies feel complete, or would you want more Lightyear sequels?

What positive diverse representation did you notice in the movie? Why are representation and inclusion important?

What did you think about the violence and peril in the movie? Is it age-appropriate? Why, or why not? How much and what kinds of violence are OK for younger audiences?

Movie Details

In theaters : June 17, 2022
On DVD or streaming : September 13, 2022
Cast : Chris Evans , Keke Palmer , Taika Waititi
Director : Angus MacLane
Inclusion Information : Female actors, Black actors, Indigenous actors, Polynesian/Pacific Islander actors
Studio : Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Genre : Family and Kids
Topics : Adventures , Friendship , Robots , Space and Aliens
Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Perseverance , Teamwork
Run time : 100 minutes
MPAA rating : PG
MPAA explanation : action/peril
Award : Common Sense Selection
Last updated : July 2, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

Our editors recommend.

Toy Story (1995)

Want personalized picks for your kids' age and interests?

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: The Adventure Begins

Toy Story 2

Toy Story 3

Toy Story 4

Disney pixar movies, space movies, related topics.

Perseverance
Space and Aliens

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Search Please fill out this field.
Newsletters
Sweepstakes
Movie Reviews

Lightyear review: Like Buzz, impressive but not subtle

Chris Evans steps in to voice the role made famous by Tim Allen in the Toy Story films.

Pixar has made us fall in love with action figures , cheer for insects , and sob uncontrollably over an imaginary friend . So maybe it shouldn't be surprising that the animation studio's latest release is most effective when it's focused on an emotional-support robot kitten named Sox.

Specifically, Sox is an emotional-support kitty for Buzz, the space ranger at the center of Lightyear . The film begins with a title card that informs us that Toy Story 's Buzz was merch sold in 1995 to promote "Andy's favorite movie. This is that movie." And let me tell you, if Lightyear had been released in 1995, it would have been everyone's favorite movie. The computer animation is stunning, at times so realistic it makes the groundbreaking Toy Story look like, well, child's play.

The Pixar team chose toys as the subjects of their first feature because they had not yet figured out how to make humans look realistic (a problem they've very clearly solved over the years). Yet Andy's room housed an entire community of complicated and nuanced plastic playthings — the exception being Tim Allen 's Buzz Lightyear, who had yet to accept he was a toy and not a space ranger on a singular mission: defeat Emperor Zurg. Allen's Buzz was a co-lead, but really a supporting character to Tom Hanks ' Woody, a selfish and petulant cowboy doll whose complex relationship with being Andy's "favorite" was at the heart of a very human story.

In Lightyear , Buzz takes center stage. (Here he's voiced by Chris Evans , modulating his Captain America charm into a lower register to mirror Allen's delivery while making the character entirely his own.) After his large crew's ship is marooned on a strange planet, he takes it upon himself to play the hero — despite being the one to maroon them in the first place. When robots take over the planet, he begrudgingly works with a band of volunteer rangers to save the colony.

This Buzz isn't a toy, but he still has the singular goal of defeating Zurg. And he's going to do it alone, because this Buzz doesn't need anyone's help, as he reminds those around him (and the audience) approximately 746 times during the hour-and-45-minute movie. Director Angus MacLane ( Finding Dory ) and his co-writer Jason Headley ( Onward ) surround their title character with quirky cohorts (voiced delightfully by Dale Soules, Taika Waititi , Keke Palmer , and more) — but Buzz doesn't bother learning most of their names, so neither do we.

The space ranger does grow a close connection with Sox, a doe-eyed companion clearly included to melt hearts and sell toys. Buzz's bond with this Swiss Army knife of a robot kitten (voiced by Peter Sohn) becomes the emotional center of the film. Sox one of the few things beyond the mission our hero comes to care about during our time with him. When the feline is in peril, or using one of his seemingly infinite (and beyond) skills to save the day, the film crackles with that Pixar magic we've come to expect over the past quarter century. The jokes may skew juvenile at times, but mostly in a Shrek way more than the worst of Saturday-morning cartoons.

Buzz's connection with Sox is rivaled solely by his bond with the only space ranger he considers his equal, Alisha ( Uzo Aduba ). Buzz and Alisha begin the film side by side, but — because of a timey-wimey plot twist that leads to some borderline canon-breaking that we won't spoil here — Alisha goes on to live a full life while Buzz doesn't age, physically or emotionally.

We, like Buzz, view his friend's milestones though vignettes akin to the universally praised opening of Up : Alisha meeting the love of her life, starting a family with her wife, becoming a grandmother, and celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary (the setting for that incredibly brief same-sex kiss at the center of so many headlines earlier this year ). Thanks to Sox's telecommunication abilities, Buzz enjoys a final moment with his friend at a pivotal moment of the film. In the middle of what's essentially an action flick, it's a touching deep breath, one you wish had been replicated in tone a few more times throughout the story.

Kids will love Lightyear . Adults will enjoy it. The only reason it falls short of what we've come to expect from Pixar is that they've set their own bar so damn high. Grade: B

‘Lightyear’ Review: Buzz Lightyear Gets His Own Adventure. It’s Diverting Enough, But Doesn’t Give You a Buzz

Making Buzz a real Space Ranger means he's no longer...a toy. That enlarges and diminishes him.

By Owen Gleiberman

Owen Gleiberman

Chief Film Critic

‘Alien: Romulus’ Review: The Primal Shock and Awe Is Gone, but It’s a Good Video-Game Horror Ride 11 mins ago
Is It Time We Retired the Idea of the Chick Flick? 3 days ago
‘It Ends with Us’ Review: Blake Lively Stars in a Romantic Soap Opera That Turns Dark and Stays Convincing 1 week ago

'Lightyear' Review: Diverting Enough, But Doesn't Give You a Buzz

“ Lightyear ,” the 26th Pixar film, has a premise that’s explained by the film’s opening title. It seems that in 1995, Andy, the young hero of “ Toy Story ,” was given a Buzz Lightyear action figure as a present. That was because he’d seen a Buzz Lightyear movie and loved it. “Lightyear” is that movie.

There are plenty of ways the Pixar wizards could have spun that premise. One imagines a Buzz Lightyear origin story in which he’s a brash young upstart going through flight training. And since Buzz, in his curvy plastic spacesuit with the chartreuse trim and the bubble helmet, is the most futuristic of all the “Toy Story” playthings, one could envision that film unfolding within the most deliriously Pixarian of sci-fi kiddie landscapes.

But “Lightyear,” in its eminently conventional and likable way, is a far less audacious movie than that. As it opens, Buzz is already more or less the Buzz Lightyear we know — an absurdly overconfident test pilot who’s a gifted flier but also a delectable egomaniac, too cocksure for his own good, given to stunts he thinks he can pull off just because…he’s Buzz. He and his crew, who are bopping around the galaxy exploring new worlds in the mode of the “Star Trek” team, have landed on a planet populated by thickly aggressive vines and the occasional rust-spotted robot. When they’re forced to make a quick getaway, piloting the spaceship (which Buzz calls “the turnip,” since it’s shaped like one) out of a steep valley, Buzz miscalculates, damaging the ship by scraping it against a rock face and stranding them all on the barren planet.

Popular on Variety

The entire movie is about how Buzz, coming together with a trusty team of fellow space explorers, fights to get off that planet. First he tries to pilot his own rocket ship to hyper-speed — and as he keeps trying, and failing, to accomplish that, he returns from each experimental mission just a few minutes older, but several years have passed on the planet. This means that we watch the developing life of his friend and colleague, Capt. Hawthorne (Uzo Aduba), as she gets married (to a woman, which the film admirably makes no big deal about), has a child, and finally passes on. Her grandchild, Izzy ( Keke Palmer ), who’s her spitting image, joins Buzz’s crew, along with Sox (voiced by Peter Sohn), a hilariously matter-of-fact robot feline who looks like he was bought at a souvenir shop, plus Darby Steel (Dale Soules), a crusty felon, and Mo Morrison (Taika Waititi), a walking nerve case.

Can they destroy the massive robot alien spaceship that’s hovering in the sky — a mysterious craft presided over by a horned megabot, the Emperor Zurg (James Brolin), who has glowing red devil eyes? The identity of this dastardly droid turns out to be a lot closer to home than you’d expect. And “Lightyear” is full of elegantly fun chases and escapes and droll bits of gizmo business, like IVAN the auto-pilot Buzz despises, plus a witty gag about the evolution of the sandwich. Taken on its own eager-to-please terms, the movie is a winning diversion. But given that it’s a spinoff of the “Toy Story” series, which is the greatest and most sustained achievement in contemporary animation, it should be noted that this is one of those Pixar movies that feels like it has 50 percent Disney DNA.

A confession: The first time I saw ”Toy Story,” not knowing who the voice actors were, I was sure that Buzz, with his handsome thrusting chin and delirious assurance, had the look and the voice of George Clooney; I was shocked when I learned that he was voiced by Tim Allen. Through all three sequels, Allen has done a brilliant job of portraying Buzz with that inimitable fusion of heroism and fatuous narcissism, though I still think of the character as Clooneyesque. In “Lightyear,” however, he’s voiced by Chris Evans , who does a creditable job of recreating Buzz’s pilot-as-game-show-host-of-his-own-legend persona, though a bit of that Allen snap gets lost. The character seems less funny, a notch more ordinary.

Of course, part of that may be that in the “Toy Story” films, he is a toy — that’s part of the joke, one that Buzz is never quite in on. He thinks he’s a real Space Ranger! So when you actually turn Buzz Lightyear into a Space Ranger, you enlarge him and diminish him at the same time. You tone down his buzz. Throughout the movie, Buzz keeps trying to get home; he wants to resume his life of space exploration. He doesn’t realize that with his friends around him, he already is home. That’s a touching, if standard, message, but I couldn’t help but agree with Buzz — that as solid an entertainment as “Lightyear” is, it feels like he belongs in a more special movie. It makes you wonder: Is “Woody’s Wild West” going to be next? Because that sounds like a way, through sheer spin-off opportunism, of taking the toy, and maybe the joy, out of “Toy Story.”

VIP+ Analysis: The Films Fighting ‘Top Gun’ to Be Summer’s #1

Reviewed at amc lincoln square, june 8, 2022. mpaa rating: pg. running time: 100 min..

Production: A Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures release of a Pixar Animation Studios, Walt Disney Pictures production. Producer: Galyn Susman. Executive producers: Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton.
Crew: Director: Angus MacLane. Screenplay: Jason Headley, Angus MacLane. Camera: Jeremy Lasky, Ian Megibben. Editor: Anthony Greenberg. Music: Michael Giacchino.
With: Chris Evans, Keke Palmer, Peter Sohn, Taika Waititi, Dale Soules, James Brolin, Uzo Aduba, Mary McDonald-Lewis, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Efren Ramirez, Keira Hairston.

More from Variety

Netflix unveils 2024 ‘made in argentina’ lineup: beloved comic strip character mafalda gets series treatment, ricardo darín touts drama ‘the eternaut’, paramount+ biggest challenge: boosting subscriber engagement, ‘a good girl’s guide to murder’ author holly jackson responds to criticism over tv adaptation changes: ‘i sympathize entirely with book fans who wanted to see their favorite moments’, netflix adds germany to list of countries adapting spanish hit comedy ‘machos alfa,’ greenlights season 4 in spain (exclusive), the future of fast: a special report on free streaming, netflix’s ted sarandos: generative ai tools will be a ‘great way for creators to tell better stories’, more from our brands, kacey musgraves delivers tender ‘too good to be true’ performance on ‘austin city limits’, the complete history of piaget watches, dish network’s rsn cuts can’t stave off looming debt woes, the best loofahs and body scrubbers, according to dermatologists, matthew fox to headline victor the assassin adaptation in the works at max.

Entertainment
Pixar’s <i>Lightyear</i> Offers an Overcomplicated Meta-Backstory for the Manliest Man in the Toybox

Pixar’s Lightyear Offers an Overcomplicated Meta-Backstory for the Manliest Man in the Toybox

T here are a million origin stories in the naked city, and in the toybox too. Now, whether we care or not, we get the backstory of Buzz Lightyear , the disarmingly full of himself he-man space explorer of Pixar’s Toy Story movies, one of the favorite toys of a kid named Andy. Lightyear, directed by Angus MacLane and featuring the voice of Chris Evans , comes right out with Buzz’s biggest secrets, sparing nothing. He’s a diligent problem solver, which has had the adverse consequence of giving him a hero complex. His life has been saved repeatedly—more than nine times—by a robot cat named Sox. But the most staggering revelation of all, at least for those who are easily staggered, is that the original Buzz Lightyear was not a toy at all, but a movie character: Lightyear is the film—made in 1995 and Andy’s favorite, a title card tells us—in which he was introduced. The swaggering hunk of talking plastic we know from 1995’s Toy Story and its three sequels is movie tie-in merchandise, a case of commerce imitating art. The Buzz of Lightyear is, loosely speaking, the art.

This Buzz—voiced by Evans, whose casual charms are evident even when you can’t see him—is a Space Ranger, part of an elite group charged with the task of, as you can probably guess, exploring space. In the film’s early moments, he and a fellow Ranger, Alisha Hawthorne ( Uzo Aduba ), find themselves and their crew marooned on a desolate planet. Buzz is certain that if he can perfect a kind of super-powered fuel, he can use it to get himself and his colleagues back to Earth. But after his first test run, he learns that although he’s only been off the ground for a few hours, everyone back on the sad planet has aged four years. Undeterred, believing it’s his duty to sacrifice his youth to the greater mission, he keeps improving on and testing that hyperfuel, even as Alisha, his closest friend, chooses to build the best life she can on a planet she never thought she’d have to call home. She rises through the Space Ranger ranks. She meets a partner and has a child. Eventually, she dies, while eternally youthful and stubborn Buzz keeps hacking away at his self-imposed mandate.

The new boss on the planet, Commander Burnside (Isiah Whitlock Jr.), decides Buzz’s goal is hopeless and permanently grounds him. But if you think Buzz Lightyear the toy could be discouraged so easily, you haven’t met Buzz Lightyear the movie character. He pushes at his duty so doggedly that eventually, upon his return to planet hopeless, he makes the acquaintance of a Space Ranger he’s never met before. This turns out to be Alisha’s granddaughter, Izzy (Keke Palmer), who has long dreamed of being a great Ranger like her grandmother but who is, as yet, wholly inexperienced. She’s also terrified of space, seemingly a liability in her chosen line of work. And there’s no small task she can’t mess up, much to Buzz’s annoyance.

That may sound like the whole plot of Lightyear, but it’s barely the setup. Buzz has to mobilize a ragtag team of wannabe Rangers—including gangly, hapless Mo Morrison (Taika Waititi) and an ex-con explosives expert named Darby Steel (Dale Soules)—to vanquish some newly arrived foes, a gang of superrobots called Zurgs, who answer to a leader known, simply, as Emperor Zurg (James Brolin). The Zurgs, with their handy mono-name, represent the simplest concept in the movie: everything else in Lightyear is overthought, and its plot is so hopelessly, desperately Christopher Nolan–style meta, that it caves in on itself. There’s a big plot twist, which the Zurgs in charge have forbidden me to reveal, that makes little sense in the scheme of the story. Worse yet, it causes us to care less about the main character, rather than more. And depending on how much you’ve ever had invested in Buzz Lightyear to begin with—for me it was, admittedly, not a lot—that’s a dangerous prospect for a movie’s emotional mechanics.

Evans probably pours more personality into Buzz than this character warrants. He’s a stalwart fellow, one-third chin and one-third eyebrows, with some rather unmemorable features in between. His macho desire to be the hero is his chief characteristic—he’s a little like the Tom Cruise of the 1986 Top Gun , in case you’re looking for more of that—and it wears thin, fast. As he was presented in the Toy Story movies, Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen) was perfectly acceptable, part of the patchwork of personalities that might conceivably have meaning in a child’s toy collection. As a leading man—even one who gets to lean somewhat on the appeal of Chris Evans—he’s pretty much a space dud.

More Must-Reads from TIME

The Reintroduction of Kamala Harris
The 7 States That Will Decide the Election
Is the U.S. Ready for Psychedelics?
Inside Sam Bankman-Fried's Siege of D.C.
Do You Really Store Stress in Your Body?
The Rise of a New Kind of Parenting Guru
The 50 Best Romance Novels to Read Right Now
Can Food Really Change Your Hormones?

Review: Pixar’s ‘Lightyear’ goes to adequacy and not beyond

A man and a woman talking to each other in a scene from an animated movie.

Copy Link URL Copied!

In at least one respect, “Lightyear” can claim some distinction: It’s the first Pixar movie ever to be cited as a Pixar character’s favorite movie. There’s more than just brand inflation at work here (though there is also that). In the original “Toy Story,” you’ll recall, a boy named Andy received an action figure of Buzz Lightyear, an intrepid space explorer with pop-out wings, a red laser pointer and an air of genial self-importance summed up by an instant-classic catchphrase (“To infinity … and beyond!”). Now, at the beginning of “Lightyear,” we learn that prized toy was a piece of promotional merchandise for Andy’s favorite film, and that film happens to be “Lightyear” itself.

This is a neat bit of chronological reverse-engineering, a clever way of disguising a feature-length “Toy Story” tie-in as its opposite. It also raises some interesting but probably ignorable questions. Like, what about “Buzz Lightyear of Star Command,” the Disney spinoff series that aired in the early 2000s? Also, why does “Lightyear,” an animated feature supposedly made prior to 1995, look this shiny and state-of-the-art? Shouldn’t it look more like — well, like “Toy Story,” speaking of ’95 releases?

For your safety

The Times is committed to reviewing theatrical film releases during the COVID-19 pandemic . Because moviegoing carries risks during this time, we remind readers to follow health and safety guidelines as outlined by the CDC and local health officials .

A certain aesthetic modesty suited that early Pixar classic, which took place in a couple of suburban kids’ bedrooms and featured an ensemble composed mostly from plastic and fabric. And if “Toy Story’s” visuals seem dated now, especially compared with more recent Pixar movies, that can only have deepened its message about how the things we loved as children inevitably change, because we of course change.

It will be interesting to see how “Lightyear” itself holds up in a quarter-century — just fine, I imagine, and indeed, “just fine” sums up the movie as a whole. Though visually grander and more cosmic in scale than the “Toy Story” quadrilogy, its story feels thinner and more generic. The script, written by Angus MacLane (who makes his feature directing debut here) and Jason Headley, tosses off a few gently mind-bending twists but otherwise rests comfortably within an accessible, highly allusive branch of family-friendly science fiction.

The Buzz Lightyear we see is recognizably Buzz Lightyear, though despite his familiar computer-animated contours, he’s clearly human rather than plastic, with a squarer jaw, more expressive eyes and a full head of brown hair beneath his purple balaclava. (He also speaks in the deeper-than-usual voice of Chris Evans, channeling some of Captain America’s get-it-done spirit while nicely approximating the timbre of a younger Tim Allen.) This is no toy story, in other words, even if one of Buzz’s many sidekicks is a talking cat robot named Sox (voiced by Peter Sohn).

But that’s getting ahead of the plot, which already boasts so many temporal loop-de-loops that it frequently gets ahead of itself. During a long Space Ranger mission, Buzz takes an unplanned detour and winds up crash-landing his ship and a sizable raft of humanity on an unfriendly planet. There, hostile giant insects swarm about, and hungry, tensile vines are forever threatening to drag outsiders beneath the otherwise barren surface. Buzz, who blames himself for this turn of events, is determined to get everyone home; to do so, he’ll need to harness a rare crystal-based fuel source that will enable the requisite leap to hyperspeed.

Buzz Lightyear flies with his crew in the Pixar movie "Lightyear."

Testing this fuel will require Buzz to fly a series of missions, each one lasting only four minutes for him but, due to some clever time-dilation principles, a few years for those waiting patiently for him back on terra firma. And so, like the brave astronauts in “Interstellar” — or the unwitting young time traveler in “Flight of the Navigator” — Buzz must grapple with the painful conundrum of aging more slowly than those he loves. Chief among these is Alisha Hawthorne (Uzo Aduba), his fellow Space Ranger and closest confidante. She’s granted an accelerated blip of a life story — over six decades she finds a wife, has a son and becomes a grandmother — that achieves some of the emotional sublimity of the “Married Life” montage from “Up.”

In this case, though, the poignancy derives from the fact that Buzz misses out on almost all of it, being too absorbed with his mission to open his eyes and appreciate the living of life and the passage of time. (It also derives from the welcome presence of a significant Black LGBTQ character in a studio-animated feature, another reason why “Lightyear” doesn’t seem terribly 1995.) And so, despite the grandeur of this movie’s cosmos — at once vast and derivative enough to trigger memories of “2001,” “Star Trek,” “Gravity” and, yes, “Wall-E” — “Lightyear” ultimately hews to a thematic rubric that Pixar fans will recognize from the more earthbound worlds of “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles” and “Inside Out.” Like those earlier classics, it’s both an adventure and an ego check, a reminder that true heroism means learning to relinquish control, embrace unpredictability and recognize the value of others.

One day in a different universe, of course, action figure Buzz Lightyear will teach a cowboy doll named Woody some of those same lessons. In “Lightyear,” they are imparted by a ragtag team of misfits determined to aid Buzz in his mission, including a friendly bumbler (Taika Waititi), a crusty ex-con (Dale Soules) and Alisha’s granddaughter, Izzy (Keke Palmer), untested but eager to prove herself worthy of the Hawthorne Space Ranger legacy. And yes, there’s also Sox, a futuristic emotional-support animal designed to ease Buzz’s trauma, and also to bring doses of whimsy and cuteness — to strike a note of “aww” — amid all the noise and action.

Of which there is quite a lot, in keeping with the zippy, high-energy Pixar brand. There are robot armies, laser shields, zero-gravity adventures and more stolen jets than in “Top Gun: Maverick.” There is also Buzz’s famous purple-armored nemesis, the evil Emperor Zurg (voiced by James Brolin), whose underlying motivation here turns out to be a pretty good surprise. To the extent that anything in “Lightyear” can really be called surprising, that is. It’s a film of modest charms and secondhand pleasures, enough to help pass a summer afternoon, if not to quell the sense that it was made for less-than-creative reasons. I do hope Andy eventually saw “Ratatouille.”

'Lightyear'

Rating: PG, for action/peril Running time: 1 hour, 45 minutes Playing: Starts June 17 in general release

Review: In the awkward ‘Harold and the Purple Crayon,’ a toddler is now a childlike adult

Aug. 2, 2024

Chris Nashawaty, author of "The Future Was Now."

The summer of ’82 changed sci-fi cinema forever

July 24, 2024

So much for the Pixar slump. ‘Inside Out 2’ just achieved a huge box office milestone

July 10, 2024

Only good movies

Get the Indie Focus newsletter, Mark Olsen's weekly guide to the world of cinema.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Justin Chang was a film critic for the Los Angeles Times from 2016 to 2024. He won the 2024 Pulitzer Prize in criticism for work published in 2023. Chang is the author of the book “FilmCraft: Editing” and serves as chair of the National Society of Film Critics and secretary of the Los Angeles Film Critics Assn.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Cailee Spaeny in the movie "Alien: Romulus." Credit: 20th Century Studios

Review: Bringing things back to basics, ‘Alien: Romulus’ leans into the horror and the goo

Hollywood, CA - June 05: Paramount Pictures studio lot at 5555 Melrose Ave. on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 in Hollywood, CA. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

Hollywood Inc.

Paramount shutters television studio, begins major layoffs ahead of Skydance merger

Aug. 13, 2024

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni leaning in for a kiss on a couch on a rooftop overlooking a city skyline

‘It Ends With Us’ movie banned in Qatar for kissing scenes

Aug. 12, 2024

A split image of Blake Lively smiling and holding a microphone, and Ryan Reynolds in costume as Deadpool covering his mouth

Why Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds both can declare box office victory

Aug. 11, 2024

Notice: All forms on this website are temporarily down for maintenance. You will not be able to complete a form to request information or a resource. We apologize for any inconvenience and will reactivate the forms as soon as possible.

DVD & Streaming
Action/Adventure , Animation , Comedy , Drama , Kids , Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Content Caution

In Theaters

June 17, 2022
Chris Evans as Buzz Lightyear; Keke Palmer as Izzy Hawthorne; Dale Soules as Darby Steel; Taika Waititi as Mo Morrison; Peter Sohn as Sox; Uzo Aduba as Alisha Hawthorne; James Brolin as Emperor Zurg; Mary McDonald-Lewis as I.V.A.N.; Efren Ramirez as Diaz; Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside

Home Release Date

August 2, 2022
Angus MacLane

Distributor

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Movie Review

In 1995, we met a boy named Andy and his two favorite toys: Woody and Buzz Lightyear. The latter, of course, was the star of Andy’s favorite movie. “ This ,” Lightyear tells us before the story commences, “is that movie.”

In uncharted space, 4.2 million light years from Star Command, Buzz and his fellow Space Ranger Commander Alisha Hawthorne detect lifeforms on an uncharted planet.

Think they’re going to just fly by? Are you kidding?

After landing on the planet, the two of them—joined by a nameless, wide-eyed rookie recruit—set off to explore the swampy, vine-entangled world. “Rookies don’t help,” Buzz grouses. “They overcomplicate things.”

Still, Buzz isn’t one to miss a teachable moment. And as they step out onto the planet’s surface, Buzz reminds our anonymous young recruit what it means to be a Space Ranger: “Respect the suit. Protect the universe. Finish the mission—no matter the cost.”

That’s about five seconds before wildly aggressive plants erupt from the planet’s innards and everything goes haywire. The vines almost drag our intrepid trio to doom nearly pull their ship—filled with 1,200 crewmembers—into the muck as well.

But Buzz Lightyear’s not about to stopped by a bunch of vines. Not on a good day, anyway. Then again, today’s not a good day for Buzz. Refusing the rookie’s help, Buzz leaps back on the craft and pulls back on the ship’s stick as hard as he can, trying desperately to get safely airborne.

It’s not enough: The enormous craft clips a cliff … and crashes.

Our heroic Space Ranger is utterly determined to “finish the mission—no matter the cost.” But he’s got an important lesson to learn: Sometimes, you can’t finish the mission all by yourself, no matter how many years you give it your all.

Especially when evil robots show up.

Positive Elements

Lightyear quickly shows that Buzz’s defining character trait—his indefatigable determination to solve problems and to rectify a terrible mistake—is also his biggest character flaw. Buzz will go to any length to right a wrong he’s committed. But depend on others for help? Well, that’s a lesson he learns very slowly.

Once Buzz and his cohorts settle into the reality that they’re marooned on a dreadfully organic planet (those nasty vines keep grabbing people), they set about brainstorming a way to repair their starship. That involves re-engineering a special hyperspeed fuel that Buzz alone keeps testing in small, fighter-like spacecraft aboard the mothership. So far, so good.

But with each attempt Buzz makes to test the fuel, Einsteinian physics kick in. Though Buzz approaches lightspeed for only a few minutes, years are passing back on the unnamed planet where his compatriots are shipwrecked. “Time dilation,” it’s called, an escapable reality, we’re told, of lightspeed physics.

In his final test run, some 62 years pass back on the planet. Buzz returns to find a whole new generation hunkered down under a laser shield and under assault from the robot minions of someone called … Emperor Zurg.

To repel them, Buzz will have to depend on the ability of a ragtag outpost of Space Ranger trainees stranded at a remote base near where Buzz crash lands: Izzy Hawthorne (his original Space Ranger partner’s granddaughter), Darby Steel (an elderly woman with a penchant for blowing things up) and Mo Morrison (a soft-spoken man ill-equipped for the rigors of being a soldier). Finally, Buzz has an intrepid “pet” cat, a robot named Sox, whose myriad abilities help keep the story moving forward as well.

Buzz, as noted, never lacks in the courage department. But gradually, his motley crew of trainee teammates helps him realize that he can’t do everything alone. And they exhibit plenty of courage and a willingness to sacrifice along the way, too.

A bigger question the movie asks ultimately revolves around how much we strive to change our circumstances and how we sometimes need to make peace with reality—even if that looks different than we’d hoped.

Spiritual Elements

Sexual content.

After one of Buzz’s hyperspeed testing runs, he returns to find that Alisha Hawthorne has gotten engaged. “What’s her name?” Buzz asks, implying that Alisha’s same-sex attraction has never been a secret to Buzz or anyone else. Her name , Alisha says, is Kiko . Later, we see the two women kiss to celebrate their 40 th anniversary.

Even though Buzz laments the fact that everyone on the ship is marooned because of his mistake, Alisha tells him, “I wouldn’t have met [Kiko] if we hadn’t gotten stranded.”

After one of Buzz’s next testing runs, he returns to find that Alisha is quite visibly pregnant. How Alisha is pregnant, given the fact that she’s married to a woman, is never explained.

Buzz’s last testing trip, as noted, correlates to more than six decades of time passing back on the planet, skipping an entire generation. We then meet Izzy Hawthorne, granddaughter of Alisha, who refers glowingly to her “two grandmas.”

I’ll return to some of the important implications of this same-sex relationship in the Conclusion.

Violent Content

Zurg and his robotic lackeys pursue Buzz and Co. for much of the movie. Myriad shootouts result in discombobulated robots and near misses to Buzz’s crew.

Robot appendages get blown off. Spacecraft battle and crash. Explosions and pursuit abound. Characters get temporarily swallowed up by vines that pull them below the planet’s surface.

All of this action has a very Star Wars -lite kind vibe to it. That said, Zurg and his menacing robots do have an ominous frowning red visage. Young or very sensitive children could be frightened by some of the more tense pursuit scenes.

Crude or Profane Language

We hear one use of the exclamation, “Shoot.”

Drug and Alcohol Content

Other negative elements.

When Buzz points his finger at Izzy and says, “To infinity and beyond,” she has no idea what he’s doing and asks, “Do you want me to pull your finger?” There are some gags about Mo needing to use a space sickness bag. “Do not vomit inside the vehicle,” Buzz warns him sternly.

As the story’s timeline stretches into many decades, new leadership isn’t interested in Buzz finishing his mission. But Buzz steals a ship to try to make it happen anyway.

If I were going to title this review conclusion, I’d call it, A Tale of Two Lightyears .

On one hand, Lightyear is exactly what we’d expect from the creative gang at Pixar who brought us Toy Story nearly three decades ago. Not only does this prequel deliver a rollicking sci-fi origin story, it winks lovingly at many classic films from the genre along the way. Older fans will smile at nods to films such as 2001 , The Black Hole , Wall*E , Star Trek , Star Wars , Battlestar Galactica , Apollo 13 and—of course— Toy Story .

Along the way, Lightyear tells an engaging, satisfying story about the fine line between determination and learning to accept others’ help. We’re also challenged to see that even when we think we’ve made irreparable, horrible mistakes, good can still come of them—even if that doesn’t look like what we’d initially planned.

Toilet humor and faux swear words are at a refreshing bare minimum here. The robots’ menacing gazes are almost the only thing, really, that might give parents of sensitive young ‘uns pause.

I wish that I could end my review here. But, alas, I cannot.

Earlier this year, controversy erupted in Florida when the state passed a law prohibiting teaching about LGBT issues to public school children from kindergarten to third grade. The law quickly came under fire from many in Hollywood and in left-leaning political circles. Pressure mounted on Disney to make a statement, since the company’s iconic theme park Walt Disney World resides in Orlando, Florida.

Disney didn’t initially respond. But according to multiple reports, Pixar reinstated a same-sex kiss in the film in response to the Florida law, using a film to comment on the political and cultural conversation and controversy about LGBT representation. Deadline.com’ s Dade Hayes writes:

“Pixar was one of the loudest voices criticizing Disney CEO Bob Chapek’s handling of the Florida bill, and said in a letter leaked to the press that the company had suppressed same-sex elements in Pixar projects.”

In recent years, we’ve witnessed growing inclusion of LGBT characters in movies and TV shows aimed at children. Disney has actually come under fire for being reluctant to participate in this trend.

Yes, we’ve had blink-and-you’ll-miss-it images of two moms with a child in the background, or verbal allusions to same-sex relationships. But Lightyear’ s depiction of a same-same relationship and multi-decade marriage catapults Disney to the vanguard of this cultural controversy.

To my mind, what’s most noteworthy here isn’t really the kiss that we see, but the fact that the film depicts everything around it as completely normal and unremarkable. Buzz obviously knows that Alisha is gay. The couple then gets married, has a child (the biological details there are never explained), and lives decades together, all without ever suggesting that this is anything other than how things are supposed to be.

This worldview is, pardon the pun, light years beyond LaFou’s giggling innuendo hinting at his attraction to Gaston in 2017’s Beauty and the Beast remake. Instead, it fully embraces a perspective on these issues in direct conflict with what Scripture teaches about the purpose and place of sexuality in marriage between a man and a woman.

For many fans of Pixar and Toy Story , Disney’s deliberate, intentional and political embrace of such a radical, activist position on this issue will come as an enormous disappointment. Buzz Lightyear is a beloved, iconic character. And apart from this issue, his origin is story is one that many families otherwise would have enjoyed.

But just as Disney feels it must take a particular stand on this cultural issue, many families with equally strong, sincerely held biblical convictions will likely choose to pass on Lightyear’ s advocacy of the LGBT agenda here.

Adam R. Holz

After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.

Latest Reviews

It Ends with Us

The Fabulous Four

Borderlands

One Fast Move

Weekly reviews straight to your inbox.

Lightyear review: Buzz boldly goes where Pixar didn't need to

A competent but unremarkable effort, Lightyear struggles to justify its own existence.

A scene from the movie Lightyear featuring Buzz Lightyear looking into the distance

Lightyear is cute , sporadically, and if only because this paint by numbers spinoff tries so hard to reach for cloying sentimentality. A flicker of the space ranger diving into action will enchant the eye. The plain-spoken, now poetic phrase “to infinity and beyond” will lift the heart. But once these spikes of nostalgia fade, the viewer will sink back into the film’s malaise of stock characters and cringe one-liners. This movie needs to be funny, but it rarely is.

The newest Pixar offering isn’t a conventional prequel. In 1995, Toy Story’s Andy watched a movie that captured his imagination and prompted him to buy a Buzz Lightyear action figure. Lightyear is the movie he watched. It’s also the movie Disney hopes your kids will see, ultimately making them buy their own Buzz Lightyear toys.

That assumption probably sounds cynical. But when a studio chooses to send a perspective-breaking film like Turning Red to streaming to make room for a legacy title promising more of the same, then jaded assumptions arrive with warp speed force.

Helmed by Angus MacLane ( Finding Dory ), Lightyear is a whimsical, overstuffed sci-fi adventure. It recalls all the classic movies you’d expect — 2001: A Space Odyssey , Star Wars , and Star Trek — but it possesses none of the originality, wit, or wellspring of emotion you’d expect from a Pixar movie. One would hesitate to call this spinoff terrible. Instead, the film finds an unsettling comfort in being aggressively average.

It starts with a sure-footed small step: Buzz (Chris Evans) and his fellow space ranger, a heroic Black woman named Alisha Hawthorne (Uzo Aduba), arrive on a lush planet in search of a habitable home for a community of humans sleeping in stasis. Like Woody, Hawthorne loves poking fun at Buzz’s self-absorbed, by-the-book habit of recording star logs no one will ever hear. In fact, his first few lines, where he notes the composition of the planet, are nearly word-for-word what he says in Toy Story when he awakens in Andy’s room.

Unlike those happy surroundings, however, Buzz and Hawthorne soon discover they’ve landed on a hostile planet replete with killer vines and mutant bugs. They try to return to their ship, but the cocky Buzz dooms them. Rather than listening to the navigational system, he tries to save the day himself but crashes, leaving himself and everyone else marooned on the craggy rock.

Buzz Lightyear from the movie Lightyear without his suit wearing a navy shirt

Chris Evans gives it his all, but Buzz without Woody as a foil doesn’t quite work.

The blistering open gives audiences everything they could want: Callbacks to Toy Story , Buzz flying through the air, the drama of his failure. But Lightyear struggles to take a sure leap as the specter of aging and frustration arises.

Buzz and Hawthorne need to recreate their ship’s warp drive if they and the other humans, now awakened from stasis, hope to leave. They decide to test their prototype cores by flying Buzz and his starfighter around a nearby sun. It’s a simple experiment with a catch: Every trip zaps Buzz four years into the future while everyone else on the planet ages normally. Hawthorne soon grows old and has grandchildren while the still young Buzz, ashamed of his failure, repeatedly tries to achieve warp speed.

Lightyear momentarily achieves the melancholy this plot aims for, until they spoil the narrative’s good will by introducing side characters meant to expand Buzz’s cinematic universe. It takes decades before Buzz finally succeeds and, by that point, a mysterious ship helmed by Emperor Zerg (James Brolin) unleashes a robot army to attack the city the colonists and their new leader Commander Burnside (Isiah Whitlock Jr.) have built.

Hawthorne is a compelling character, and a refreshing example of proper representation.

Hawthorne’s granddaughter, Izzy (Keke Palmer) is now grown-up, and she, along with the clumsy and frightened Mo (Taika Waititi) and the elderly but spunky ex-con Darby (Dale Soules) are planning to infiltrate Zerg’s ship. The difficulty in watching arises from caring for the new cast.

None of these characters in this convoluted movie are particularly interesting. They’re common tropes meant to teach kids the importance of finding courage and turning perceived weaknesses into strengths. We’ve seen these obstacles in far better cartoons, and Lightyear isn’t one of them.

By taking Buzz out of the Toy Story universe Lightyear also takes away the very conflict that made them special: The tension between Westerns and space movies. Andy’s story always felt like a throwback to the late 1960s, when kids turned in their cowboy hats and plastic six shooters for helmets and wings. Buzz signified the progress of newer Americana dreams, while Woody occupied the nostalgic past.

Here, it’s Buzz fighting to relive flights of yesteryears. He wants to travel to the stars again, to be a space ranger. Without Woody, however, there’s no friction in his journey. He traverses a straightforward story about learning to live in the present while accepting the help of others. And try as Evans might, even his spot-on vocal performance can’t conjure up the same fish-out of water laughs inherent to the character.

The robo-cat called Sox from 'Lightyear'

Buzz’s robo-cat is cute, but its presence feels like Pixar checking another box.

If the writers were continuing with the era Buzz is meant to evoke, you’d expect this movie to include more silly B-movie hijinks. You’d also want more fanciful, schlocky designs of ships and monsters. In short, you’d expect some risk taking. None of that exists.

Lightyear, from a visual standpoint, is exceptionally well-made: the textures are felt, the striking use of shadows stir deep emotions. That’s to be expected. The spinoff, however, doesn’t bring much else. Even the emergence of Buzz’s robotic cat companion doesn’t provide real magic, because the character never feels genuine. Every joke it tries carries a whiff of pandering. By the time we arrive at the big twist, this predictable cartoon is merely going through the motions in its long, slow journey toward middlebrow representation that feels algorithmically calculated rather than organic.

The grander question with Lightyear is whether this movie would’ve excited Andy, and if it can exhilarate other children. Maybe? Nothing falls totally flat: The visuals, score, cinematography, stories, and emotions are all pleasing enough. And it’s refreshing to see more Black characters with central roles in animation. But if you’re looking for a movie that’ll conjure the imagination in the same way Toy Story did, then you’ll leave disappointed. Lightyear goes to infinity, but nowhere particularly special.

Lightyear is in theatres now.

This article was originally published on June 13, 2022

Science Fiction

Review: 'Lightyear' sputters upon liftoff in Pixar's new Buzz Lightyear origin movie

Buzz Lightyear enters the time/space continuum in this mildly entertaining "Toy Story" spinoff.

Disney/Pixar's highly-anticipated " Lightyear " arrived in theaters this weekend, and where this prequel spin-off of the iconic "Toy Story" empire should have been an electrifying slam dunk, the event film comes across as a stiff piece of corporate entertainment that lacks heart and magic.

Pixar's endearing "Toy Story" quadrilogy, TV specials and shorts are a beloved part of pop culture since its CGI sorcery first crossed screens in 1995, becoming the world's first computer-animated feature film and spawning a billion-dollar franchise that families around the world have grown up with.

"Lightyear" is an ambitious time-travel adventure set outside that cinematic universe in a sense, as it depicts the actual movie that Andy saw to make him want a Buzz Lightyear action figure in the first place, a fact evidenced by the "Lightyear" movie poster tacked to his bedroom wall in the original film.

And if you didn't know that, the introductory text will refresh your memory for you!

Related: 'Beyond Infinity' launches deep into Buzz Lightyear's history on Disney Plus

Want to try Disney Plus? You can get a 7-day free trial here(opens in new tab)
Sign up for Disney Plus for $6.99/month

There's been much ado about the MCU's Chris Evans taking over for Tim Allen in voicing the confident Star Command hero , but it's all a lot of rocket exhaust as this is a different iteration of the character from the tie-in toy line that Buzz is a part of in the four "Toy Story" films. Plus, Chris Evans is much a greater box office draw than Tim Allen at this stage of the Hollywood game and Captain America's name on the "Lightyear" poster certainly won't hurt its appeal.

The structural problem here lies in preconceived notions of the character based on his blowhard antics in "Toy Story," which can’t be translated to form a likable identity in this meta film-within-a-film medium apart from the franchise’s own internal logic.

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

Promoted as a PG-rated children’s film that’s family-friendly, the time travel and time dilation plot points will be totally lost on most kids under 10 (which made up more than half the audience for my screening) and at times the jokes fall flat with no tonal consistency or esoteric wit to be found.

"Lightyear's" plot presents Buzz (Chris Evans) as a famous Space Ranger in Star Command as he crashes a spherical spaceship on the hostile world of Tikana Prime 4.2 million light-years from Earth. The crew of 1,500 disembarks and builds a habitable colony to survive while Buzz tries to recreate hyperspace fuel cells needed to return home via a series of experimental faster-than-light test flights.

Through the concept of time dilation, each failed flight skips ahead four years for everyone except Buzz. As he nears the threshold of hyperspace he ages far slower than the colonists whose lives are continuing at normal speed. During these temporal lapses his commander and friend, Alisha Hawthorne, (Uzo Aduba), gets married, has a child, and then a granddaughter. Over sixty years later, Buzz's robo-cat named Sox (Peter Sohn) figures out the correct formula for fuel stabilization but now so many decades have passed that nobody wants to leave Tikana Prime.

Buzz disobeys orders of the new commanding officer and steals the XL-15 spaceplane that delivers him 22 years into the future where Emperor Zurg and his robot invasion force have now attacked the planet. The former Space Ranger must team up with Alisha Hawthorne's grown-up granddaughter, Izzy (Keke Palmer), and her two cadet friends, Mo Morrison (Taika Waititi) and Darby Steel (Dale Soules), to stop the evil Zurg (James Brolin) and his intimidating robots to free the colony.

There's no denying that the technical aspects of "Lightyear" are top notch, proving beyond infinity that Pixar is still the sterling standard in CGI animation and will be for decades to come. The outer space vistas, roaring rockets, alien spacecraft, and Zurg's invasionary robots are stunning and imaginative. Ingested as pure science fiction eye candy, it's all supremely addictive.

The Academy Award-winning Michael Giacchino ("Dune," "The Batman") delivers a wonderful score to add to his many Pixar soundtracks that include "The Incredibles" and "Up," and helmer Angus MacLane ("Finding Dory") provides solid directorial skills and propulsive pacing.

But watching nearly 100 minutes pass in this "Toy Story"-related movie, I was prone to feel some charm leaking out of its colorful sci-fi balloon. The storyline felt sadly redundant and derivative at times, pieced together from other, better flicks. For that I blame the inert screenplay by Angus MacLane, Matthew Aldrich and Jason Headley, and partially a misguided sense of Disney accountants pawning this film off as part of the "Toy Story" legacy for financial gain.

Up until the third act, when a WTF twist revolving around Zurg is revealed and the audience is left in a stupor trying to figure out by what mechanism of time and space distortion this plot choice was derived from, and bored toddlers wandered parent-less in the dark theater, this was an adequate spin-off, though stripped of its humor and trademark sophisticated Pixar gags. But this odd reveal should have been axed while still in the writers' room, if not for pure logic's sake, then at least to maintain the continuity between Buzz and Zurg that came in the films before it.

"Lightyear" is gorgeous to stare at but feels slightly generic in a modern world of entertainment offerings where epic science fiction and fantasy projects are now crowned kings. It's a film that revels in its mediocrity and never fully attains creative orbit, and that's a shame when considering how cherished the Buzz Lightyear character and all his fantastic foibles are. (Think about it, he even has his own theme park ride at Disneyland and Disney World!)

The conundrum here is what to do when a sentient toy is more interesting than the actual source character? We'll leave that convoluted question to the wisdom of the universe to unravel.

Where we would have loved to see a film centering around the golden age of Star Command and their daring Space Rangers going through the academy and rising to galactic prominence, we're given a "wibbly wobbly, timey wimey" narrative and deconstruction of the character that will confuse young kids and make adults pine for the goofy charisma of the old Buzz Lightyear more than ever.

Still, if you don’t think about the premise too hard and chase it down with a popcorn and frosty beverage, it just might be a suitable summer diversion for you to enjoy.

And yes, there are three fun post-credit scenes worth watching!

Disney/Pixar's "Lightyear" is now playing in theaters nationwide.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Jeff Spry is an award-winning screenwriter and veteran freelance journalist covering TV, movies, video games, books, and comics. His work has appeared at SYFY Wire, Inverse, Collider, Bleeding Cool and elsewhere. Jeff lives in beautiful Bend, Oregon amid the ponderosa pines, classic muscle cars, a crypt of collector horror comics, and two loyal English Setters.

'Borderlands' review: A return to the dark ages of video game adaptations

Marvel and 'Star Wars' take note. 'Star Trek' is now Hollywood's ultimate shared universe

'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew:' First adventurous trailer lands at Disney's D23 fan event

Director Angus MacLane’s film focuses on a flesh-and-blood Buzz Lightyear (Chris Evans) who is still a stubborn, cocky hero — only he is not owned by a 6-year-old boy named Andy and no longer pals around with plastic pigs. Resembling Maverick from “ Top Gun ,” Lightyear is a daredevil government pilot with a disdain for authority.

During a remote mission, Lightyear accidentally gets his large Enterprise-like spaceship with hundreds of humans aboard marooned on a faraway planet. And so he makes it his life goal to achieve “hyperspeed” in a small spacecraft, which would allow the crew to return home.

Buzz is no toy in the Pixar adventure flick "Lightyear."

However, every time the astronaut makes a test run in outer space, the planet moves forward in time four years while he stays exactly the same. As he tries and tries to get the advanced tech to work, Lightyear comes back to discover that his friends are aging, having kids and dying around him.

A moving scene depicting the rapid passage of time early in the movie is a dead ringer for the weepy marriage sequence in Pixar’s “Up.”

When a vaguely evil dude takes over and decides to end missions to leave the planet, Lightyear goes rogue with the help of some ragtag aspiring rangers, including Izzy (Keke Palmer), with whom he has an unexpected connection.

But the best character in this “Toy Story”-adjacent movie is, surprise surprise, a toy. He’s a robot cat named Sox, who is gifted to Lightyear to help him deal with the stress of his job. Sox, who gets almost all the film’s laughs, becomes a vital tool in defeating a foe, the Zurgs, that begin attacking the human settlement. Peter Sohn’s perfect voice for Sox is dryer than the Sahara.

As strong as the wind-up is, the whole tale is not as gripping, narratively or emotionally, as most recent Pixar films have been. The message — don’t be tunnel-visioned, work as a team — is hunky dory, but can be bogged down by too many convoluted science fiction elements. You find yourself not caring about the final destination, which is rarely a problem for the animation studio.

Nonetheless the CGI is handsome as ever, and it clips along. The movie is one of the better pieces of family entertainment released so far this year.

One hundred minutes is plenty of quality time with Lightyear, though. Maybe instead of going to infinity and beyond with “Lightyear” sequels, Pixar should consider this a one-off.

Pixar Recasts Tim Allen’s Buzz Lightyear as a Villain After ‘Lightyear’ Flops

Woody laughing at Buzz Lightyear on a cowboy bed

Pixar just previewed a handful of its upcoming films at D23 – and one villain bears a familiar face.

It’s no secret that the past few years haven’t been the strongest in Pixar Animation Studios’ history. At the peak of COVID-19, Disney shifted Pixar releases onto its newly launched streaming service, Disney+ . That meant the likes of Soul (2020), Luca (2021), and Turning Red (2022) were denied the box office laurels they deserved.

Buzz Lightyear (Chris Evans) traveling at lightspeed in the 'Lightyear' trailer

Even once Pixar returned to theaters, things didn’t look up for the studio overnight. Lightyear (2022), the first Pixar film to get a theatrical release since Onward (2020), failed to set the box office alight . Starring Marvel alumnus Chris Evans as the ‘real’ Buzz Lightyear – AKA the movie character on whom Andy’s toy Buzz Lightyear is based in Toy Story (1995) – it took home just $226.4 million on a $200 million budget.

The film’s failure kicked off some major changes at Pixar . In 2023, the studio underwent mass layoffs, reducing its workforce by 14% —including several of those involved in the film, such as its director Angus MacLane and producer Galyn Susman.

Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) looking shocked in 'Toy Story 4'

While it’s hard to say why exactly Lightyear failed, theories include the fact that it was an unnecessary spinoff and cast a new actor in the role of the iconic Space Ranger. With that in mind, it should come as no surprise that Pixar is reverting back to the OG Tim Allen version of the character for its upcoming film, Toy Story 5 . (Yes, we’re really getting a fifth film).

Yesterday’s Disney Entertainment Showcase Panel at D23 2024: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event unveiled new details about the movie . While we’re still two years off from its theatrical release, we now know that it will be directed by franchise alumnus and Pixar Brain Trust member Andrew Stanton (something that’s been rumored for months now) and that its premise is the toys taking on a new enemy: technology .

The premise of the new #ToyStory is revealed by Andrew Stanton at #D23.

The premise of the new #ToyStory is revealed by Andrew Stanton at #D23 . pic.twitter.com/lzI0lR9WFo — Variety (@Variety) August 10, 2024

“With Toy Story 5 , the toys’ job gets exponentially harder,” Stanton said, “when our toy group goes head-to-head with what kids are obsessed with today: electronics.” As the audience rushed to take pictures of concept art in which Woody (Tom Hanks), Jessie (Joan Cusack), Rex (Wallace Shawn), and company watch a child using an iPad , Stanton added, “None of you are holding up toys, you’re all holding up phones.”

However, iPads aren’t the only challenge the toys must face in Toy Story 5 . The panel also revealed that Tim Allen’s Buzz Lightyear won’t just play a protagonist role in the film, with an army of 50 Buzz Lightyear toys – all of which are malfunctioning – serving as antagonists.

An army of 50 Buzz Lightyear toys who are stuck in a malfunctioning play mode will be villains in ‘TOY STORY 5’

An army of 50 Buzz lightyear toys who are stuck in a malfunctioning play mode will be villains in ‘TOY STORY 5’ pic.twitter.com/isWvBOn9dL — DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) August 10, 2024

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen an out-of-character Buzz Lightyear cause problems for the toys. In Toy Story 3 (2010), Buzz gets stuck in Spanish mode, throwing a spanner in their escape plan from Sunnyside Daycare. In Toy Story 2 (1999), factory-mode Buzz Lightyear toys also cause issues in Al’s Toybarn.

Responses to Toy Story 5 have been mixed in general. Some have (rightly) argued that the franchise has no need for a fifth installment – and arguably didn’t need a fourth one, either . However, this plot point has sparked further division on social media, with some accusing Pixar of recycling old plot points.

Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and Bullseye in the incinerator from 'Toy Story 3'

“This is actually so unoriginal it was literally the original plot of Toy Story 3 back when Disney was bluffing in 2005 that if Pixar didn’t make another deal with them, they would start making sequels without Pixar’s involvement,” pointed out X (formerly known as Twitter) user @JakeLandauTO .

Meanwhile, @dansbro12 questioned, “So we’re just reusing old plot points now?

“So no new villains?” wrote @KamiAnimess . “Running out of ideas.”

Toy Story Woody (left) and Buzz Lightyear (right)

While we’ll have to wait until 2026 to see if Pixar manages to pull this off, we’re cautiously optimistic. Pixar has been on an upward curve in the past year, with two hits – Elemental (2023) and Inside Out 2 (2024), the latter of which has overtaken Frozen II (2019) to become the highest-grossing animation of all time – under its belt. We’re manifesting more of that magic for Toy Story 5 .

Toy Story 5 wasn’t the only Pixar film covered at D23. The studio’s upcoming slate also includes the previously announced Elio (2025), the original movie Hoppers (2026), an Inside Out (2015) spinoff called Dream Productions for Disney+, and The Incredibles 3 .

How do you feel about Toy Story 5 ?

Screen Rant

Toy story 5 story details reveal 50 buzz lightyears & toys vs tech.

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

8 Toy Story Characters Who Deserve A Bigger Role In Toy Story 5

Pixar just admitted to its biggest lightyear mistake with this toy story 5 reveal, why toy story 5’s announcement video “looks old” explained by former pixar animator, toy story 5 release date confirmed, toy story 5 director seemingly revealed by pixar exec.

New Toy Story 5 details have been unveiled at D23, with a focus on electronics as the next major challenge for the Pixar characters.
Andrew Stanton is returning as writer and director for the next installment, bringing an army of 50 Buzz Lightyears stuck in toy mode.
Though yet to be confirmed, a first-look image shared after the panel also seemingly announced the return of Tom Hanks' Woody, alongside other returning characters.

Just a few months after it was confirmed to be in the works, new details have been unveiled for Toy Story 5 . The long-running animated franchise, centered around Sheriff Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), returns to theaters in 2026. Near the end of Toy Story 4 , Woody chose to be with Bo Peep, leaving Buzz, Jessie and others in Bonnie’s care once again. Following its success, and Disney Pixar’s focus on creating sequels, another film seemed inevitable, but little has been known about Toy Story 5 since the announcement.

During the D23 Entertainment Showcase, for which Screen Rant was in attendance, the first story details were revealed for Toy Story 5 . In addition to confirming that Andrew Stanton is returning to the franchise as both writer and director for the next installment, it was revealed that the next major challenge for the fan-favorite Pixar family will be that of electronics , with Stanton even pointing out the audience's use of phones during the presentation. It was also revealed that there will be an army of 50 Buzz Lightyears in the movie, all of which are stuck in toy mode. Check out a brief teaser also revealed during the panel below:

Electronics Could Become Toy Story’s Biggest Hurdle Yet

Throughout the franchise, Woody and Buzz Lightyear have faced various obstacles, including Andy’s departure for college and nearly being destroyed. However, because the movies tend to explore the relationship between children and their toys, electronics could present a greater challenge for Woody and Buzz to overcome. Along with the aforementioned plot details, Pixar also revealed an image for Toy Story 5 that shows the animated characters standing beside Bonnie , who appears infatuated by a glowing screen .

A collage of Jessie, Buzz, and Rex from Toy Story in front of Andy's cloud wallpaper

Pixar's Toy Story franchise has always been about Buzz and Woody, but Toy Story 5 could give other beloved characters time in the spotlight.

Though not much else is known about the sequel, it’s worth wondering how Buzz and company may renew Bonnie’s interest in them. Technology hasn’t rendered dolls and action figures, or other traditional toys obsolete, but it has rivaled them, as more children gain access to digital media and tablets. By incorporating electronics into the film, Woody and Buzz could face abandonment once again, but the narrative in Toy Story 5 will likely give them more purpose and highlight the significance of retaining one’s childhood.

As for the army of Buzz Lightyears, it will be interesting to see how that factors into the story and whether the main group of toys come across them. It could also prove a fun throwback to Toy Story 2 's Al's Toy Barn, in which Tim Allen's primary Buzz was tied up by others. With more information being revealed about Toy Story 5 , anticipation should continue to grow, and fans can look forward to seeing Woody and Buzz reunite, and tackle technology, when the movie eventually premieres.

Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 is the fifth entry in the Toy Story movie franchise by Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. The film was announced on February 8 2023, along with several other major Disney animation sequels. For the film, Tim Allen reprises his role as the space-faring toy, Buzz Lightyear, once again.

Toy Story 5: Release Date, Cast, Story & Everything We Know

Save money, experience more.

Secret Target in Disneyland’s Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters Gives You 50,000 Points

Some of Disneyland’s best rides are the interactive ones where you can compete for the highest score! One of our favorites is Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, a shooting game that takes you into the heart of a space battle where you must stop the Evil Emperor Zurg, who is stealing batteries to power a weapon of destruction.

During the ride, you’ll board an XP-40 space cruiser that spins a full 360 degrees and travel through a vibrant world while shooting at various targets to increase your score and Star Command ranking. Rankings range from the lowest Space Cadet to the highest Galactic Hero.

However, getting a high score on this ride can sometimes be easier said than done. While there are certain tricks to maximizing your score, there is one secret target you can hit to really blow it out of the water. Keep reading for everything you need to know about this secret target in Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters that will give you 50,000 points!

Get exclusive access to prices on hotel & tickets just for Mickey Visit subscribers. Don't miss our travel hacks newsletter!

Secret Target in Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

There are some basics that guests know of when riding Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, like that certain shaped targets will get you more points (in order from least to most: circle, square, diamond, triangle) and lit targets are worth more points. When you find a high-value target, you’ll also want to keep firing repeatedly, including if the ride stops (as you can accumulate a great deal of points this way).

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters triangle target

There are 7 ranks that you can achieve on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (ordered from lowest to highest): L-1 Star Cadet, L-2 Space Ace, L-3 Planetary Pilot, L-4 Space Scout, L-5 Ranger 1st Class, L-6 Cosmic Commando, and L-7 Galactic Hero. Getting a high score can be challenging, however, and many wonder how visitors can achieve the top ranks on this ride.

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters rankings board

If you are looking for a way to maximize your score in Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, there is a secret target that you can hit that will give you a great deal of points. This isn’t lit up like the other targets but is instead a tiny unmarked hole on the gap between Emperor Zurg’s chest plates that you can hit during the two scenes where he appears.

When you enter the first room with Zurg, aim for the green square beneath his gun, and he will turn towards you. Then, aim for the hole on his chest for the chance to get 50,000 points!

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters secret target

You can see the secret target hole between Zurg’s chest plates in this zoomed-in image:

While not every visitor may be able to achieve the highest rankings on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, this is still a fun secret target to look out for and try to hit as you are experiencing the attraction! You can see our ranking of the best Disneyland attractions for the top rides you should experience at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Also see more tips for Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters here.

Plan Your Disney Vacation Today!

For the best resource and helpful information for planning your Disney trip, make sure to subscribe to our FREE Deals newsletter . We’ll provide you with helpful planning information, exclusive Disney deals, and access to the lowest-priced Disney tickets anywhere.

You can find more information on planning your vacation in our guides:

Avengers Campus Characters Disneyland Guide
Disneyland Genie+ 2024: Tested Tips to Experience the MOST!

Pixar Pier view Disney California Adventure

10 Disney California Adventure Hacks We Use All the Time

tianas bayou adventure exterior and figure of princess tiana

When is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening at Disneyland? Opening Date Finally Announced

This Is My Go-To Meal When I’m Looking for Fast and Easy Food at Disneyland

NEW Zootopia Experience Coming to Animal Kingdom at Disney World

Many Disneyland Guests Will Surprisingly Avoid These 7 Extremely Popular Rides

All the Big New Rides Announced Coming to Disneyland From D23 Presentation

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Emily Midgley

Emily Midgley is a writer from San Diego, California. She was introduced to Disneyland when she was two and has been in love with all things Disney ever since! At Mickey Visit, she will keep you updated with the latest news from the Disney Parks and provide helpful planning content for your vacation. Her favorite rides at Disneyland are Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, Space Mountain, and Rise of the Resistance. She loves Marvel (especially Guardians of the Galaxy) and lives and breathes anything to do with Star Wars.

Planning a Disney Vacation? Get Exclusive Discounts + Free Bonuses

In addition to exclusive discounts for Mickey Visit subscribers, get our free planning printable and guide to make your life SO much easier.

Previous Post: List of Disney World Resorts 2024

Next Post: Check Out These 34 New Pixar Fest Merchandise Items Coming to Disneyland

Exclusive Discounts + BREAKING NEWS

Join our newsletter of 100,000+ readers for discounts, planning tips, and breaking news about Walt Disney World and Disneyland. "Essential for planning your trip!" -Helen from Portland, Oregon

This Beloved Toy Goes Rogue in 'Toy Story 5'

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

The Big Picture

Toy Story 5 releases in Summer 2026, get ready for another fun adventure with Woody, Buzz and the gang.
The toys are up against electronics in the new movie, promising a fresh and entertaining storyline.
Don't miss the rogue Buzz Lightyears in Toy Story 5, a new twist that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

At tonight's D23 Expo, Disney sent waves of excitement through the crowd by officially announcing Toy Story 5 , with Andrew Stanton , the mastermind behind classics like Finding Nemo and WALL-E , set to direct. The film, slated for a summer 2026 release, promises to continue the beloved franchise's legacy, bringing back fan-favorite characters like Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie, and the rest of the iconic toy gang. With Toy Story 5 , the saga continues with a plot that pits the toys against a new challenge—electronics. The toys will face off against an army of rogue Buzz Lightyear figures stuck in toy mode, a threat that brings to mind the formidable imagery of a Star Wars Stormtrooper battalion. This concept not only adds a fresh twist to the series but also taps into the ongoing narrative of identity and what it means to be a toy in a rapidly changing world.

What Is the 'Toy Story' Series About?

Since its inception in 1995, the Toy Story series has been a groundbreaking force in animation and storytelling. The original Toy Story was Pixar's first full-length feature and the first entirely computer-animated film, revolutionising the industry. It introduced audiences to the world of toys that come to life when humans aren't looking, anchored by the friendship between Woody, a cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a space ranger action figure. The film was a massive success, both critically and commercially, leading to three sequels that expanded on the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the bittersweet nature of growing up.

Toy Story 2 (1999) delved deeper into Woody's past, exploring the toy's origins and the concept of toy mortality. Toy Story 3 (2010), often regarded as one of the most emotionally resonant entries, saw the toys confronting the inevitable moment when their owner, Andy, outgrows them, culminating in a heart-wrenching yet hopeful conclusion. Many thought this would be the end of the series, but Toy Story 4 (2019) surprised fans with its exploration of Woody's search for purpose beyond being a child's toy, introducing new characters like Forky and reuniting Woody with Bo Peep.

Since its inception, the Toy Story franchise features an all-star voice cast led by Tom Hanks and Tim Allen. Joan Cusack, Don Rickles, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger , and Annie Potts are also prominent voices throughout the series. Stay tuned to Collider for more exciting updates on the progress of Toy Story 5 , coming in 2026.

Andrew Stanton

Upcoming New Disney and Pixar Movies: 2024 Release Dates and Beyond

What disney movies can you expect this year.

Disney’s 100th anniversary may be over, but the studio and its sister company, Pixar, still have a handful of films coming out in 2024 and beyond. Aside from films by Marvel, 20th Century Fox, and other studios owned by Disney , the release calendar for Disney Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films for this year is small thanks to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, which put production on many movies on hold, and subsequently pushed the release dates for some of them back by a year or so.

With the strikes now in our rearview mirror, we rounded up all the major films from Disney and Pixar that have a firm release date and are still in the works.

Disney and Pixar Movies: Upcoming Release Dates

Upcoming disney and pixar movies.

Whether they release in theaters or on Disney+, here’s a look at the major Disney and Pixar movies coming from now through 2025 and beyond.

Moana 2 (November 27, 2024)

Mufasa: the lion king (december 20, 2024), snow white (live-action remake) (march 21, 2025), elio (june 13, 2025), tron: ares (october 10, 2025), zootopia 2 (november 26, 2025), freakier friday (2025), lilo & stitch (live-action remake) (2025), toy story 5 (june 19, 2026).

Moana (Live-Action Remake) (July 10, 2026)

Frozen 3 (November 24, 2027)

Incredibles 3 (date tbd), bambi (live-action remake) (date tbd), hercules (live-action remake) (date tbd).

Here's more on the upcoming Disney and Pixar movies that we have the most information about right now:

Not even a year after the live-action remake of Moana was announced, The Walt Disney Company announced Moana 2 out of nowhere on February 7, 2024, giving us a teaser trailer of Moana standing on the beach to blow her conch shell. It also released a first-look image of Moana, Maui, and a couple of new characters sailing by a whale shark, which appears to be one of Moana's ancestors considering how her grandmother Tala appeared as a manta ray after she passed away.

The surprise sequel's plot finds the new young chief of Motonui Island hitting the high seas of Oceania and beyond with Maui and a new crew of seafarers after receiving an unexpected call from her wayfaring ancestors. The sequel will be directed by Dave Derrick Jr., with music composed by Grammy winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa’i, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina. Lin-Manuel Miranda will not return with new music for the film.

As told by Rafiki to Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter, the prequel to the 2019 live-action remake of The Lion King tells the story of how her grandfather Mufasa became king of the Pride Lands. The story will also reveal how Mufasa and Scar went from loving brothers to bitter enemies, while Timon and Pumbaa sprinkle in colorful commentary.

Mufasa: The Lion King will mark Kiara’s second appearance in a feature film since the direct-to-video sequel The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride, despite also making an appearance in the Disney Channel/Disney Junior animated series The Lion Guard. Aaron Pierre and Kevin Harrison, Jr. will voice young Mufasa and Scar, respectively, while Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner will reprise their voice roles of Pumbaa and Timon.

Which upcoming Disney or Pixar movie are you most looking forward to?

Details about the live-action remake of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves are scarce, but what we do know is that Rachel Zegler will play the leading Disney Princess , Gal Gadot is cast as the Evil Queen, and Andrew Burnap will play a new character named Jonathan, replacing Prince Charming. Greta Gerwing and Erin Cressida Wilson wrote the screenplay, and Marc Webb is the director. The film was originally scheduled to release this year, but Disney pushed its release date back to March 21, 2025 due to the SAG-AFTRA strikes.

The casting caused controversy among audiences because Zegler, who is part-Colombian, does not fit Snow White’s profile of having “skin as white as snow,” and because she made comments about making the character stronger than she was in the original — both issues Zegler addressed. In October 2023, Disney released a first look image of Snow White and the dwarves, who are rendered in CGI to resemble their appearances in the original film.

Elio is about an 11-year-old boy who gets abducted by aliens after they mistake him for Earth’s ambassador to the rest of the universe. After he is beamed up to the Communiverse, an intergalactic council comprising representatives from other planets for contacting them by mistake, Elio has to form bonds with eccentric alien life forms and survive a series of formidable trials in order to hopefully get sent back home.

Elio was originally scheduled to be released on March 1, 2024, but because production of the film paused due to the SAG-AFTRA strikes, Pixar pushed the release date back to June 13, 2025.

Tron: Ares is set to be a reboot of the Tron film franchise, not a direct sequel to Tron: Legacy. Jared Leto has been cast as the titular character Ares, a computer AI program who embarks on a journey from the digital dimension to the human world.

Tron: Ares was originally announced to be a sequel to Tron: Legacy as Tron 3 in 2010, but Disney cancelled it in 2015 following the box office failure of Tomorrowland. The film’s development restarted in 2017, but had changed directors ever since, from Garth Davis to Joachim Rønning. Production started in December 2023, and the film is slated to release in theaters October 10, 2025.

Zootopia 2 was also announced by Iger last February to be in development alongside Frozen 3 and Toy Story 5. Details about the sequel to the film about a city populated by anthropomorphic animals in climate-diverse landscapes are scarce, but they’ll be revealed at a later date.

As for what would happen in the film, a few of the actors shared some ideas. According to CinemaBlend , Ginnifer Goodwin said she would like to see a role reversal between her character Judy Hopps and Jason Bateman’s Nick Wilde, saying that because they’re now a cop team, “I would also like to see Nick [Wilde] have to be the one to convince Judy [Hopps] that the world is worth fighting for.” Bateman, on the other hand, said the plot should be about “The two of us, kicking ass out there. Cleaning up the streets. We’re a couple of new cops out there. So, bad guys, be warned.”

Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis are returning for this sequel to Freaky Friday, which promises to be even, well, freakier: Freakier Friday . The actors showed up onstage at D23 in August, 2024, to tout the film, which of course is the sequel to a remake of the originaly 1977 Freaky Friday starring Jodie Foster and Barbara Harris. The film will be released in 2025.

The live-action Lilo & Stitch remake got a first preview at Disney's D23 event in August, 2024, in the form of what the "live-action" Stitch will look like. Of course, he's still gonna be computer-generated, but he'll be appearing, persumably, opposite real actors and in real settings. Maia Kealoha plays Lilo and Zach Galifianakis also stars in an unspecified role. The film is expected sometime in 2025.

Disney CEO Bob Iger surprised Toy Story fans on February 8, 2023 with the news that Pixar is now producing Toy Story 5 . Although it seemed like Toy Story 4 wrapped up the series for good as Woody and Buzz Lightyear went their separate ways, it appears as if the story will continue. Though the news received a warm welcome by many fans of Pixar movies , others questioned the necessity of a fifth Toy Story film.

Do you think the series should have ended with Toy Story 4?

We don't have any concrete details about Toy Story 5 as far the plot is concerned. However, we do know that the movie is set to release on June 19, 2026.

See everything we know about Toy Story 5 .

Moana (Live Action Remake) (July 10, 2026)

Just like the original 2016 CGI animated film, the plot for the live-action remake of Moana will revolve around a young girl who is chosen by the ocean to reunite an ancient relic with the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti with the help of the exiled demigod named Maui. This puts her on a mission to not only save the ocean, but also save her island of Motonui, which has been afflicted with blight as a result of the volcanic demon Te Kā’s rampage.

The live-action remake for Moana was announced on April 3, 2023 , with Dwayne Johnson slated to produce the film and reprise his role of Maui, who was inspired by his grandfather Peter Maivia, a former WWE star. Auli'i Cravalho won’t reprise her role as the titular heroine; however, she’ll serve as executive producer.

Bob Iger announced that Frozen 3 was in the works on February 8, 2023, but details about the sequel have since been scarce. However, Idina Menzel and Josh Gad confirmed they will reprise their roles as Elsa and Olaf, respectively. Kristen Bell hasn’t said whether she’ll return as the plucky heroine Anna.

While story details about Frozen 3 haven’t been officially revealed, it is expected to pick up where Frozen 2 left off, with Anna becoming queen of Arendelle after Elsa abdicated the throne to become the protector of the Enchanted Forest after learning she’s the fifth spirit bridging the gap between people and magic. As for the release date, it might come out in late 2025.

See everything we know about Frozen 3 .

Yes, Incredibles 3 is happening, and series director Brad Bird is also back. Beyond that, not much more is known about the film, which was revealed at D23 in August, 2024.

The live-action remake of Bambi was confirmed to be in development in January 2020 following the success of Guy Ritchie’s take on Aladdin. The producers aim to use photorealistic CGI for the animal characters just as they did for The Lion King remake and, according to former screenwriter Lindsey Anderson Beer, tone down Bambi’s mother’s death to make it less traumatic for today’s kids than the original 1942 animated film. “Not to spoil the plot, but there’s a treatment of the mom dying that I think some kids, some parents these days are more sensitive about than they were in the past,” she told Collider last year. “And I think that’s one of the reasons that they haven’t shown it to their children.”

Sarah Polley, Academy Award-winning director of Women Talking, is reportedly set to direct the live-action Bambi . No one has been cast as the titular deer or any of his friends yet.

Details surrounding the live-action adaptation of Hercules , which was announced in June 2022 , have been scarce since the SAG-AFTRA strikes save for a few tidbits. The movie will be directed by Guy Ritchie, making it the second Disney live-action remake on his resume after Aladdin, and it will be produced by the studio run by Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo. Danny DeVito may reprise his role as the wise satyr Phil, but that hasn’t been confirmed.

Joe Russo explained to Variety that they’ll use TikTok as inspiration for putting a modern spin on the Disney Renaissance classic. “Audiences today have been trained by TikTok, right? What is their expectation of what that musical looks like and feels like? That can be a lot of fun and help us push the boundaries a little bit on how you execute a modern musical,” he said.

More Upcoming Disney Movies

Although our list only includes films beind created by Disney and Pixar, the fact of the matter is that Disney owns a lot of companies. If you're looking for more upcoming films under the Disney umbrella, here's a quick look at what to expect in 2024 and beyond from Star Wars, Marvel, and 20th Century Fox.

Upcoming Star Wars Movies

A lot of the upcoming Star Wars projects are actually TV shows, but there a few upcoming movies worth noting. Unfortunately, we don't exactly have release dates for any of these just yet. There's the upcoming Taika Waititi Star Wars movie as well as the recently announced Mandalorian and Grogu film, but we don't yet know when those will happen. Check out our full list of upcoming Star Wars movies for more info.

Upcoming Marvel Movies

Marvel has had a steady stream of movies arriving year after year, but 2024 is looking a bit sparse when it comes to new films. That being said, you can expect Deadpool & Wolverine to arrive this year and even more movies to arrive in 2025. Check out our full list of upcoming Marvel movies for more info.

Upcoming 20th Century Fox Movies

20th Century Fox Studios has quite a few more movies expected to come out in 2024 compared to the rest of the entertainment companies Disney owns. With Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes out now, the next big film from ths studio is set to be Aliens: Romulus . You can check out this full list of 20th Century Studios movies for more info.

Disney and Pixar Movies Released in 2023

These are the major Disney and Pixar movies that were released in 2023:

Peter Pan & Wendy (April 28, 2023)
The Little Mermaid (Live-Action Remake) (May 26, 2023)
Elemental (June 16, 2023)
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (June 30, 2023)
Haunted Mansion (July 28, 2023)
Wish (November 22, 2023)

Note: This story was updated on 8/13/2024. It was originally posted on 1/12/2024.

Cristina Alexander is a freelance writer for IGN. She has contributed her work to various publications, including Digital Trends, TheGamer, Twinfinite, Mega Visions, and The Escapist. To paraphrase Calvin Harris, she wears her love for Sonic the Hedgehog on her sleeve like a big deal. Follow her on Twitter @SonicPrincess15.

IGN Recommends

IMAGES

'Lightyear' Review: Buzz Lightyear Gets His Own Adventure. It's Div
Lightyear Review: Is It Better Than the Toy Story Movies?
Buzz Lightyear Travels 62 Years Into The Future In New Trailer
New Lightyear Trailer Is Full Of Fun Footage With Chris Evans' Buzz
Lightyear Trailer: Buzz Lightyear (The 'Real' One) Goes To Infinity And
'Lightyear' sputters upon liftoff in Pixar’s new Buzz Lightyear movie

COMMENTS

Lightyear movie review & film summary (2022)
The score by Michael Giacchino is one of his best, a delectable spoof of bombastic space movie music that elevates every scene it plays under. Advertisement. Of course, every great hero needs a great sidekick. "Lightyear" gives us Sox ( Peter Sohn ), an adorable cat whose job is to offer emotional support to Buzz.
Lightyear
Feb 3, 2024. The film offers a good balance between emotion and comedy, although at times the development of the action is hindered by the constant difficulties on Buzz. Despite this, Lightyear is ...
'Lightyear' Review: Infinite Buzz
The simple, charming premise of "Lightyear" is explained in an onscreen text. "In 1995, a boy named Andy got a toy from his favorite movie. This is that movie.". In other words, it's the ...
Lightyear First Reviews: An Exhilarating, Visually Spectacular Sci-Fi
Pixar returns to theaters with Lightyear, a sort of spin-off of their Toy Story franchise featuring the in-universe inspiration for the Buzz Lightyear toy (voiced here by Chris Evans).The first reviews of the movie celebrate its animated sci-fi action and adventure story and visuals, as well as its scene-stealing robot cat for comic relief, but it's not necessarily the studio's greatest ...
Lightyear movie review: a good adventure
Lightyear is a good movie — and an even better IP grab. Lightyear will makes lots of money, and sell even more toys. Alex Abad-Santos is a senior correspondent who explains what society obsesses ...
Lightyear review: an ambitious sci-fi movie with a familiar Pixar
Lightyear writer-director Angus MacLane (co-director of Finding Dory) and co-writer Jason Headley (Onward) give Toy Story its own in-world movie, explaining Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger history.
Lightyear
Full Review | Aug 4, 2022. Jason Fraley WTOP (Washington, D.C.) The film isn't about the beloved toy Buzz Lightyear, but rather the "real-life" human who inspired him. Second, the hero is ...
Pixar's 'Lightyear': Film Review
The movie named for that Space Ranger, Lightyear, extends the Toy Story franchise by showing us the sci-fi adventure that hooked Andy on the character and inspired the merch. This is a funny ...
Lightyear (2022)
Lightyear: Directed by Angus MacLane. With Chris Evans, Keke Palmer, Peter Sohn, Taika Waititi. While spending years attempting to return home, marooned Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear encounters an army of ruthless robots commanded by Zurg who are attempting to steal his fuel source.
Movie review: Pixar's 'Lightyear'
Buzz Lightyear flies to infinity and beyond in Lightyear, the fifth film in Pixar's Toy Story saga. Accessibility links. ... Movie review: Pixar's 'Lightyear' June 18, 2022 5:09 PM ET.
Lightyear (2022)
Legendary space ranger Buzz Lightyear embarks on an intergalactic adventure alongside ambitious recruits Izzy, Mo, Darby, and his robot companion, Sox. As this motley crew tackles their toughest ...
Lightyear
A sci-fi action adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear (voice of Chris Evans), the hero who inspired the toy, "Lightyear" follows the legendary Space Ranger after he's marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, he's joined by a group of ...
Lightyear Movie Review
Buzz is brave, thorough, determined, and loyal. He. Parents need to know that Lightyear is a Pixar-animated origin film for the character who inspired the Buzz Lightyear action figure from Toy Story. In the movie, space ranger Buzz (voiced by Chris Evans), his crew, and an entire spacecraft filled with people is marooned on an alien planet.
Lightyear review: Like Buzz, impressive but not subtle
Specifically, Sox is an emotional-support kitty for Buzz, the space ranger at the center of Lightyear.The film begins with a title card that informs us that Toy Story's Buzz was merch sold in 1995 ...
'Lightyear' Review: Diverting Enough, But Doesn't Give You a Buzz
'Lightyear' Review: Buzz Lightyear Gets His Own Adventure. It's Diverting Enough, But Doesn't Give You a Buzz Reviewed at AMC Lincoln Square, June 8, 2022.
Lightyear Review: An Exciting & Heartwarming Origin Story For Buzz
Lightyear is a clever expansion of Pixar's beloved Toy Story franchise - packed with fun moments, warm sentiment, and downright gorgeous animation. A prequel story (of sorts), Lightyear introduces audiences to the "original" Buzz Lightyear — a character who feels both familiar and fresh at the same time. While fans might have worried that ...
Pixar's 'Lightyear' Is An Overcomplicated Origin Story
Now, whether we care or not, we get the backstory of Buzz Lightyear, the disarmingly full of himself he-man space explorer of Pixar's Toy Story movies, one of the favorite toys of a kid named ...
'Lightyear' review: Buzz spinoff goes to adequacy, not beyond
Review: Pixar's 'Lightyear' goes to adequacy and not beyond. Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Chris Evans) and Alisha Hawthorne (voiced by Uzo Aduba) in the Pixar movie "Lightyear.". In at ...
Lightyear
Movie Review. In 1995, we met a boy named Andy and his two favorite toys: Woody and Buzz Lightyear. The latter, of course, was the star of Andy's favorite movie. ... But Buzz Lightyear's not about to stopped by a bunch of vines. Not on a good day, anyway. Then again, today's not a good day for Buzz. Refusing the rookie's help, Buzz ...
Lightyear review: Buzz boldly goes where Pixar didn't need to
The Inverse Review. Lightyearreview: Buzz boldly goes where Pixar didn't need to. A competent but unremarkable effort, Lightyear struggles to justify its own existence. byRobert Daniels. Updated ...
'Lightyear' sputters upon liftoff in Pixar's new Buzz Lightyear movie
"Lightyear's" plot presents Buzz (Chris Evans) as a famous Space Ranger in Star Command as he crashes a spherical spaceship on the hostile world of Tikana Prime 4.2 million light-years from Earth.
Lightyear Review
Lightyear features striking visuals, strong performances, and a love-out-loud lesbian relationship that we're thrilled to see on screen. All of those things deserved a stronger story, though. It ...
'Lightyear' review: Decent Pixar snatches Buzz from toy chest
The new Pixar movie "Lightyear," a spin-off of "Toy Story," is all about Buzz. And it completely ignores that the "to infinity and beyond!" space ranger is best known as an inanimate ...
Pixar Recasts Tim Allen's Buzz Lightyear as a Villain After 'Lightyear
Starring Marvel alumnus Chris Evans as the 'real' Buzz Lightyear - AKA the movie character on whom Andy's toy Buzz Lightyear is based in Toy Story (1995) - it took home just $226.4 ...
Pixar Just Admitted To Its Biggest Lightyear Mistake With This ...
1 Toy Story 4 Line Reveals What Movie Pixar Shouldve Made Instead Of Lightyear. Pixar's Buzz Lightyear spinoff movie in 2022 was an interesting addition to the Toy Story universe, but Toy Story 4 ...
Toy Story 5 Story Details Reveal 50 Buzz Lightyears & Toys Vs Tech
Just a few months after it was confirmed to be in the works, new details have been unveiled for Toy Story 5.The long-running animated franchise, centered around Sheriff Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), returns to theaters in 2026. Near the end of Toy Story 4, Woody chose to be with Bo Peep, leaving Buzz, Jessie and others in Bonnie's care once again.
Secret Target in Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters Worth 50,000 Points
There are 7 ranks that you can achieve on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (ordered from lowest to highest): L-1 Star Cadet, L-2 Space Ace, L-3 Planetary Pilot, L-4 Space Scout, L-5 Ranger 1st Class, L-6 Cosmic Commando, and L-7 Galactic Hero.
This Beloved Toy Goes Rogue in 'Toy Story 5'
Toy Story 5 releases in Summer 2026, get ready for another fun adventure with Woody, Buzz and the gang. The toys are up against electronics in the new movie, promising a fresh and entertaining ...
Upcoming New Disney and Pixar Movies: 2024 Release Dates and Beyond
Disney's 100th anniversary may be over, but the studio and its sister company, Pixar, still have a handful of films coming out in 2024 and beyond. Aside from films by Marvel, 20th Century Fox ...

Movie Reviews

Odie Henderson

Now playing

Dirty Pop: The Boy Band Scam

The Convert

Peyton Robinson

Sheila O'Malley

Great Absence

The Human Surge 3

Lightyear (2022)

Writer (based on characters created by)

Cinematographer

Latest blog posts

Apple TV+'s Bad Monkey Struggles to Find Its Voice

The Box Office is Everything: In Praise of the Window at the Front of the Theater

The Fairy Tale Shoes: Interview With the Cast and Crew of Cuckoo

On the Trail: India Donaldson on Good One

‘Lightyear’ Review: Infinite Buzz

Lightyear First Reviews: An Exhilarating, Visually Spectacular Sci-Fi Adventure for Fans who Grew Up with Toy Story

Does it live up to peak Pixar?

Will Toy Story fans love it?

How is the writing?

What about a strong message for the kids?

Does it play well as a sci-fi action movie?

How are the visuals?

How is Chris Evans as the new voice of Buzz?

Will fans love the new characters too?

Should they have just titled the movie “ Sox the Cat “?

Is it a good sign for the future of Pixar?

Related News

Movie & TV News

Top Headlines

Lightyear is a good movie — and an even better IP grab

Most Popular

Today, Explained

This is the title for the native ad

More in Culture

Lightyear follows a familiar Pixar theme — and that’s its biggest problem

Most Popular

Patch Notes

This is the title for the native ad

More in Reviews

The Latest ⚡️

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

site categories

David Rooney

Related Stories

Full credits

THR Newsletters

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Top cast 13

More like this

Did you know

User reviews 1.1K

Technical specs

Related news

More to explore

Movie Reviews

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Email not verified

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

Cast & Crew

Or browse by category:

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Common Sense Selections for Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

How to Prepare Your Kids for School After a Summer of Screen Time

Multicultural Books