WHO'S WHO IN "TOY STORY 3"
Classic Characters Come Face-to-Face with New Toys on the Block In addition to the returning cast of characters and the introduction of Ken, "Toy Story 3" boasts a wide range of colorful new toys and a few new humans as well. The toys from Andy's room journey from the security of their longtime home to Sunnyside Daycare, where they envision getting played with five days a week. Another key player in this latest "Toy Story" adventure is a loving and imaginative child named Bonnie, the daughter of a woman who works at Sunnyside and owner of her own special troupe of toys.
Likewise, "Toy Story 3" reunites one of the most engaging and entertaining vocal ensembles in movie history, with Tom Hanks back in the saddle providing the voice of the popular pull-string cowboy sheriff Woody, and Tim Allen signing on for his third mission as the heroic, intrepid and occasionally deluded space ranger Buzz Lightyear.
With a returning cast of favorites and the introduction of a whole new cast of characters, "Toy Story 3" is packed with star power. Producer Darla K. Anderson tips her hat to the "Toy Story 3" cast. "It was wonderful to get the original actors back on board for 'Toy Story 3.' Having the gang together again helped to ground us at the beginning the filmmaking process. The whole cast--old and new--brings so much talent and priceless spontaneous improv; they breathe beautiful life into these characters and help inspire the performance of the animation."

FAMILIAR CLASSICS
WOODY is a cowboy sheriff with a pull string that, when pulled, proclaims Woody's signature catchphrases from the 1950s TV show "Woody's Roundup." He's always been Andy's favorite toy. Even though his owner is now grown, the loyal sheriff Woody maintains a steadfast belief that Andy still cares about his toys. As the toys venture into their unknown future, Woody remains the voice of reason. As their dependable leader, he ensures that no toy gets left behind.
Tom Hanks lends his voice once again. For Hanks, slipping back into the role of Woody after a long absence was an easy assignment. "Woody is a passionate guy who throws himself into every action," says Hanks. "As soon as he has an instinctive thought, like 'I have to help them' or 'I have to run away,' he does it with 100-percent commitment. You gotta love that about anybody. I also love the way the relationship between Woody and Buzz has grown. They started off as pure adversaries and learned how to accept each other's strengths, forgive each other's failures, and respect each other as individuals. Opposites definitely attract in this case.
"The fact that Pixar can come up with a third 'Toy Story' movie and have it be completely fresh and real and unique shows just how brilliant they are," continues Hanks. "There's this great logic that John Lasseter and Lee [Unkrich] and Darla [K. Anderson] and all the writers adhere to that makes moviegoers just kind of relax and let themselves be transported to this magical place and time. When you can do that with a movie, it's amazing. With 'Toy Story 3,' you come back to a lovely, familiar and happy place. What's great is that I get credit for the way the character and the humor come off. I have kids that are now in college come up to me and say, 'When you told that neighbor kid to play nice, that really meant a lot to me.'"
Hanks says that the franchise's third installment is not light on emotion. "'Toy Story 3' is a big, massive adventure that has you constantly on the edge of your seat," he says. "It's part 'Great Escape,' with the same kind of excitement as Dorothy escaping from the Wicked Witch of the West. And yet they take those elements and turn them into something that is very emotional. We're talking about toy dinosaurs and Mr. Potato Head, and yet you feel for them and don't want them to get recycled or stuck with the bratty kids. You want them to be together and played with at the end of the movie. You're worried for their essence. The filmmakers at Pixar always manage to get you right in the heart. The story is as simple as growing up and having a guy go off to college, but it is so profoundly emotional that you can't help but have tears in your eyes."
BUZZ LIGHTYEAR is a heroic space ranger action figure, complete with laser beam, karate-chop action and pop-out wings. Buzz is a boy's dream toy who becomes a quick favorite of young Andy, and the closest of buddies with Woody. While Buzz's sole mission used to be defeating the evil Emperor Zurg, what he now cares about most is keeping his toy family together. Buzz's new mission is sidetracked along the way, however, when his journey brings out surprising aspects of his personality even he didn't know existed.
Tim Allen, who returns as the voice of Buzz, recognizes the magic in the new film. "'Toy Story 3' is a remarkable achievement with a story that is so good they could have marketed the storyboard version," says Allen. "Even though I knew the story and had read the ending, it grabbed me in the best possible way; I know audiences are going to have the same reaction. There are great action sequences, but the beauty of the movie is the evolution of the subtleties in the shot selection and how it is directed. Pixar just keeps getting better and better. This is a very simple story about friendships and staying together. I love that the ending is really a new beginning. You realize that one door shuts and another one opens. It's very, very emotional.
"The great thing for me about working on the 'Toy Story' films is the great friendships I've made with all the people at Pixar and with Tom Hanks," adds Allen. "Tom and I really like working together and being around each other. I totally respect his talent and I think he feels the same about me."
Allen was a fan of Buzz's storyline. "In this third film, Buzz gets to expand his role," says the actor. "When he accidentally gets reset, he speaks perfect Spanish. He's a conquistador and a bull fighter. It's pretty hysterical. I really do like being Buzz. He's a character I developed with John Lasseter and he's a lot of fun to play."
JESSIE is an exuberant, rough-and-tumble cowgirl doll who's always up for a daring adventure to save critters in need. With Andy's imminent departure hanging over the toys, Jessie is afraid of being abandoned by her owner once again. She takes charge, insisting that the toys take control of their own destinies. But is it a decision they'll later regret?
Joan Cusack, who returns as the voice of the energetic cowgirl, is a fan of the character. "Jessie is such a good role model," she says. "She believes that children are important and approaches them with pride and passion. And she believes girls can do anything! Which of course she is right! She has exuberance for life and has a can-do attitude. She is also not afraid of feeling things and learning from her feelings. Jessie is pretty cool. It is such a treat to be back with the Pixar people, because you know it is going to be quality work and, best of all, really fun."
"Jessie is one of my favorite 'Toy Story' characters because she brings such a strong female presence to the films," says producer Anderson. "She has a big heart, but can keep up with Woody and Buzz and isn't afraid to speak her mind. There's a key scene in 'Toy Story 3' in which Jessie rides up on Bullseye and saves the day, and it was important to me to make sure she had that moment in the film. Not only is it a dynamic way to reintroduce Jessie, but it's a fun twist and unexpected.
"In both 'Toy Story 2' and 'Toy Story 3,'" Anderson continues, "Joan Cusack is so instrumental in making Jessie the tenacious and spirited character that she is. Her voice is powerful, yet she also brings a softness, kindness and of course phenomenal comedic chops."
HAMM is a pink piggybank with a penchant for one-liners. He's still a know-it-all, or at least that's what he'd like everyone to believe. What Pixar movie would be complete without a vocal performance by the studio's acknowledged good luck charm, John Ratzenberger.
The versatile actor has lent his voice to every Pixar film to date, starting with the wise-cracking pig, right up through a choice cameo as Construction Foreman Tom in last year's Oscar-winning "Up."
Ratzenberger says, "Doing the voice of Hamm is not so much like revisiting a character, but more like joining a bunch of friends in a sandbox filled with great toys. I'm grateful to be part of Pixar's passion and gleefulness. I like playing Hamm because he's such a wisenheimer.
He cracks me up. I watch the films like everybody else in the audience and I just have to laugh. The beauty of working with Pixar is that they do all the heavy lifting. They know the exact punctuation and every breath the character takes. The director knows the emotional direction he wants and he knows what every character sounds like. They built the ship; all you have to do is ride on it."
MR. POTATO HEAD is a wise-cracking, hot-headed spud, complete with angry eyes. He's the eternal pessimist with a tough plastic exterior, but his total devotion to his little "sweet potato," Mrs. Potato Head, reveals a softer side.Don Rickles celebrates his third outing as the irritable Mr. Potato Head. "When John Lasseter first told me that I was going to be Mr. Potato Head, I said, 'I don't play potatoes. Leave me alone. I gotta try to make a career.' Little did I realize that I would be able to get my wife some jewelry and a couple of houses and so forth. The money's very good.
"This movie has a great storyline," continues Rickles. "There's a lot of jumping, and running and jumping. Lots of action. If you look down for a couple of minutes, you find that Mr. Potato Head is in a garbage can or he flew over a chair. You gotta be right on your toes."
Rickles claims Mr. Potato Head is the true star in the film. "I gotta be honest, I'm a riot in this film, and the things I say are brilliant. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are time killers. I have to admit, I'm brilliant. It scares me the greatness that I have. In fact, when I think about it, I'm too great for the film. It should just be about Mr. Potato Head."
MRS. POTATO HEAD is Mr. Potato Head's biggest fan. She adores her brave spud and is always willing to lend him a hand. Or an eye. While Mr. Potato Head's "sweet potato" lives up to her pet name, she also shares her husband's hair-trigger temper.Estelle Harris once again provides the voice of this loving spud.
REX may look like the most fearsome dinosaur in the toy box, but this Tyrannosaurus is one of the most lovable toys of the bunch. Despite his endless worrying and insecurities about his small roar, Rex always comes through for his pals. Wallace Shawn returns as the voice of Rex.
SLINKY ensures that the saying "Dog is a man's best friend" holds true for the plastic variety as well. Slinky maintains a nearly unflagging faith in Woody, and the practical pup will go to great lengths to help his friend. Blake Clark lends his voice as Slinky in "Toy Story 3," stepping in for his good friend, the late Jim Varney, who provided the voice in the first two films.
BULLSEYE is Woody's trusty toy steed from the "Woody's Roundup" gang. Bullseye can ride like the wind and leap across giant canyons in a single bound, especially when Woody is in the saddle.
The ALIENS are often heard exclaiming "ooohhh!" in unison. These three green, multi-eyed squeak-toys now revere their adoptive parents, the Potato Heads, instead of the Claw because, of course, Mr. Potato Head saved their lives and they are eternally grateful.
BARBIE has survived years of yard sales and spring cleanings, but her glory days come to an abrupt end when Andy's sister Molly dumps her in a daycare donation box. Barbie's despair is short-lived, however.  Her perky demeanor returns as soon as she spots Ken and his dream house at Sunnyside Daycare. Despite being smitten at first sight, she's not just another doll in love; assertive Barbie teaches Ken a thing or two about real friendship. Jodi Benson lends her voice to Barbie once again.
ANDY , Buzz and Woody's kind, imaginative young owner, is now nearly 18 years old and just days away from heading to college. His bedroom walls, once covered with Buzz Lightyear posters, are now plastered with images of sports cars, rock bands and skateboarders. Although Andy no longer brings his old toys out from the chest for playtime, he hasn't been able to bring himself to get rid of them. With his imminent departure looming, and prodding from his mom, the time has come for him to decide the fate of his favorite toys. The filmmakers called on John Morris, who provided Andy's voice in the first two films, to voice the character once again. John, like Andy, has grown up with the toys.
NEW TOY S ON THE BLOCK "Toy Story 3" is loaded with comedy, and some of the biggest laughs come from the cast of new toys, who are brought to life by vocal talents with their own unique pedigrees in humor.As if they're fresh from the box, these new toys come with their very own new-toy descriptions.
Sunnyside Daycare Toys:
LOTS-O'-HUGGIN' BEAR (AKA LOTSO) is a jumbo, extra-soft teddy bear with a pink and white plush body and a velvety purple nose. This lovable bear stands fuzzy heads and shoulders above other teddy bears because he smells like sweet strawberries! With a smile that will light up your child's face and a belly just asking to be hugged, Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear is sure to become a bedtime necessity. Stain-resistant. Spot clean plush surface with a damp cloth.
Lotso is a complex character whose gentle exterior doesn't tell the whole tale. Veteran character actor Ned Beatty provides his voice. "If a character sort of comes at you one way and then he changes and shows you another side, I think audiences like that a lot because we all experience that in life. Everything is not always there when we first meet or form an association with someone. "You take on a character and he may do things that are not positive," Beatty continues. "Sometimes they're negative or scary. These are things you would never think of doing yourself, but as an actor, you can go inside yourself and ask if you could possibly ever do something like that. That's a little scary, but also a lot of fun. You find out a lot about yourself because that's what you need to do in order to play the part. I feel really wonderful about being a part of 'Toy Story 3.' This was a gift from the movie gods, wherever they may be."
KEN is a swinging bachelor who's always on the lookout for fun. Grab your binoculars and join him on a safari! Ken sports the perfect outfit for his eco-adventure: light blue shorts and a leopard-print shirt with short sleeves sure to keep him cool in the hot sun. And after his exciting expedition, Ken will be ready to hit the dance floor in style. His accessories include matching scarf, sensible loafers and a fashion-forward gold belt. Dozens of additional Ken outfits sold separately.Michael Keaton provides the voice for Ken, a character he connected with from the start. "He's fantastic," says Keaton. "I love this guy. He's emotional. He's crazy about Barbie and he's got a lot of outfits--a lot of outfits."Keaton says he thinks Pixar has long been able to find the right blend of humor, emotion and adventure. "You're connected to these films because they feature universal themes," says the actor. "And they're funny. The pace is always right."
STRETCH is a fun-loving under-the-sea octopus friend that shines in glittery purple. Kids can count her eight rubbery legs and dozens of sticky suckers that are sure to stand up to rough-and-tumble play and extreme stretching. Toss her high on the wall and watch her climb her way down! Clean in mild soap solution to remove dust and lint. Comedian/Oscar-nominated actress/talk show host Whoopi Goldberg is heard as the sassy, brassy solitary female member of Lotso's crew.
BIG BABY is a lifelike baby doll with a soft, cuddly fabric body and vinyl arms, legs and face. With dazzling blue eyes that open and close, this realistic baby encourages nurturing play. Eighteen inches tall, he comes dressed in an adorable yellow onesie with matching bonnet, and has his own magical bottle of milk that disappears while he drinks! A perfect first doll for your special child. Machine washable on gentle cycle.
Flame retardant. TWITCH is the insectaloid warrior, where MAN + INSECT = AWESOME! This sturdy action figure stands over five inches tall, with more than 15 points of articulation, including ferocious chomping mandibles. Use his powerful wings and impenetrable exoskeleton to evade capture! Twitch is meticulously detailed and includes his signature magical battle staff and removable chest armor. For children ages 4 and up. Other insectaloid figures sold separately. Twitch features the voice of John Cygan.
CHUNK will rock your world! This gargantuan creature sports protective shoulder spikes, while his ferocious fists are ready to smash whatever enemy gets in his way. Chunk's oversized limbs are fully posable, making him ready for hours of imaginative fun. As an added bonus, the press of a hidden head spike will spin Chunk's facial expression from friendly to fierce! No batteries necessary. Jack Angel provides the voice of Chunk.
SPARKS will fly--literally--during electrifying playtimes with your new robot friend Sparks! This retro-inspired toy has flashing red LED eyes and a blaster cavity that actually spits out real sparks when he's rolled along on his sturdy rubber wheels. Sparks also sports telescoping arms with working pincers and an elevator action that raises his entire body to new heights. Sparking action completely child-safe. Requires two AA batteries (not included). Sparks is voiced by Jan Rabson.
CHATTER TELEPHONE is a classic pull toy that has been inspiring giggles for many generations, while building motor skills and balance. Ring ring! Preschoolers can't resist the friendly face with eyes that move up and down when they pull the toy along, and the bright colors and pleasing sounds keep them happy and engaged. Chatter Telephone is ideal for the little hands in your life. Chatter Telephone features the voice of Teddy Newton, who also served as director for "Day & Night," a short film that will be released with "Toy Story 3."
BOOKWORM makes story time extra special. This bedtime reading companion encourages your children's love of reading, while keeping them company with his happy smile. Bookworm's sturdy flashlight features an extra-long-lasting lightbulb, bright enough to read by without causing eyestrain. Two C batteries included. Ages 4 and up. Actor Richard Kind provides the voice of Bookworm.
Bonnie's Toys:
MR. PRICKLEPANTS is the perfect companion for a woodland adventure! This charming lederhosen-wearing hedgehog is from the Waldfreunde collection of premium imported plush toys. He may look prickly, but the plump and fuzzy Mr. Pricklepants is made strictly for cuddling! Hand wash and air dry. Restore fluffiness with fingers. Made in Germany. Pixar newcomer Timothy Dalton takes on the role of Mr. Pricklepants, who fancies himself a great thespian. "Mr. Pricklepants is an astonishingly sweet character," says Dalton. "He's a marvelous image to look at--this fantastic, strange, fat little hedgehog in lederhosen and these Tyrolean leather shorts. All of the toys in Bonnie's house are big actors who love to make imaginary movies and do improvisation.
BUTTERCUP will lead your child away on a magical adventure! This cuddly unicorn features velvety-soft, snow-colored fur with sparkly gold and pink accents. He sports a signature mythical golden horn and a funto- comb mane and tail. Buttercup's durable plastic eyes are both charming and scratch-resistant. Hypo-allergenic. Ages 3 and up.Jeff Garlin, voice of the Captain in "WALL•E" and of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" fame, lends his distinctive comedic timing to a toy that some might feel is feminine in appearance. "Hearing my voice come out of a sweet little unicorn is completely strange," says Garlin. "It's funny. I think that 'Toy Story 3' is excellent. It'll make a lot of people very, very happy. It has the magical Pixar quality."
TRIXIE is a perfect playmate for prehistoric playtime! Visit the era when dinosaurs ruled the Earth! Made of rigid, durable plastic and in friendly shades of blue and purple, Trixie features an expressive mouth and movable legs. This gentle Triceratops will feed any child's imagination. Also available: Tyrannosaurus Rex, Stegosaurus and Velociraptor. "Trixie is a plastic triceratops, designed to be from the same dinosaur toy line as Rex," says director Lee Unkrich. "Kristen Schaal isvery, very funny actress, who is best known for her role as the stalker-fan Mel in HBO's 'Flight of the Conchords,' and she provides the squeaky, high-pitched voice for this hilarious character. Trixie loves doing improv, and is always trying to figure out who her character is and what situation she's playing. Having a very funny and vocally unique actress gave us some great comic opportunities." "I am really proud of my work," says Schaal, "which is unusual for a comedian who's self-deprecating in every way. After I finished recording my role, I left the studio and thought, 'I guess I'm immortal now.' These films are classics and timeless. They are going to be around forever. So my voice will be in the ether coming out of a triceratops forever."
DOLLY is a soft and sweet dress-up rag doll, and is the perfect gift for any young child! Her floppy body and sunny smile will make her an irresistible new member of your family. Dolly has purple hair, googly eyes and gently blushing cheeks. She comes with a pretty blue dress, but templates are included to create and sew your own outfits! Machine washable on gentle cycle. The always-funny Bonnie Hunt is a Pixar favorite who has been featured in "A Bug's Life" as Rosie and in "Cars" as Sally. For this film, she brings her sardonic wit to Dolly, who is Woody's counterpart in terms of being the voice of leadership. "Dolly is definitely not the prettiest doll," says Hunt, "but she is darn cute. Her buttons don't match and her hair is purple, but she is a real loving and funny character. I felt a strong connection with her immediately because a doll named Dolly might seem generic, but she has a good heart and a real depth of character. It brought me back to when I was a little kid and how my imagination could bring to life a simple doll."
PEAS-IN-A-POD will quickly become a parent's favorite on-the-go toy. The soft, plush pod secures the happy peas inside with a durable metal zipper, making it perfect for the car or stroller. The Peas-in-a-Pod plush toy also develops fine motor skills by catering to a child's natural grab instinct. Pulling the three peas out of the pod will provide repeated enjoyment for infants and toddlers, and soon they'll learn to put them back in! Machine washable. Not for human consumption. Charlie Bright, Brianna Maiwand and Amber Kroner provide the voices.            BACK                  NEXT    HOME