Toy Story Spinoff Makes Lightyear Even WORSE

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The Toy Story series, comprising more than just the four films produced by Pixar, stretches further than some might imagine. However, one of the lesser-appreciated sequels becomes even harder to follow when a previously overlooked TV spinoff is taken into account. With Toy Story 5 slated for release in 2026, the buzz surrounding this upcoming production underscores the enduring popularity of this beloved saga.

In essence, the near flawlessness of the Toy Story films is somewhat marred by the release of the 2022 movie titled Lightyear. Though it belongs to the franchise’s primary narrative, it ventures into a more complex, almost perplexing realm. Compared to Toy Story 1-4, which are among Pixar’s finest productions, Lightyear significantly falters in meeting that same level of quality and fails to capture any of Buzz’s most memorable moments.

Buzz Lightyear Of Star Command Should Have Been The Reason Andy Wanted A Buzz Action Figure

Toy Story’s 2D-animated Buzz show made more sense as a motivator for Andy

The film Lightyear begins by revealing that the movie served as the inspiration for Andy’s longing for a Buzz Lightyear action figure, which later became a significant element in the Toy Story universe. Taking on such a project, knowing its potential impact, was indeed a considerable gamble, and unfortunately, it didn’t yield the desired success.

The movie was both a financial failure and fell short of delivering the 90’s-style action-packed sci-fi adventure it promised. Pixar could have explained why Andy wanted Buzz Lightyear without much effort, but they had an existing answer ready in the form of “Buzz Lightyear of Star Command”.

The animated show, airing from 2000 to 2001, produced 62 episodes. Much like the movie “Lightyear,” it portrayed Buzz as a living character instead of a plastic toy, making it relatable for children around Andy’s age. It’s understandable that after watching this show, Andy might have asked his mother for a Buzz Lightyear toy.

The Biggest Reason To Make Lightyear Was Already Covered By The Toy Story Spinoff Show

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command being canonized could have saved Pixar a lot of money

Buzz Lightyear from Star Command first appeared following Toy Story 2, yet it was never explicitly linked to the films and instead functioned as an independent production. With Pixar seemingly struggling to clarify how Andy wanted his own Buzz before the making of Lightyear, I find it puzzling why they didn’t simply announce that the animated series was responsible for this plot point.

In a different wording: If Lightyear had been successful at the box office and its narrative was more compelling, the choice to produce it might have proven justified. Regrettably, the film’s disappointing performance financially and its lackluster storyline made the whole venture seem fruitless, just as there was always a chance that the concept could be insignificant. Additionally, given that the Buzz Lightyear series already existed within the Toy Story universe, adding another installment to the franchise felt redundant.

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2025-07-04 23:17