Toy Story of Terror! (2013)
★★★ — Toy Story of Terror! (2013)
Toy Story of Terror! is a 22-minute Halloween special that aired on ABC in October 2013, marking one of the first times Pixar had produced content specifically for television broadcast rather than theatrical or home release. It was directed by Angus MacLane, a Pixar animator and short film director who would later co-direct Finding Dory (2016). The special works as a knowing parody of creature-feature and slasher conventions, transplanting the Toy Story cast into horror-genre territory in much the same spirit as the Toy Story Toons shorts that preceded it. Carl Weathers joins the returning voice cast in a new role, adding a welcome bit of character to what is otherwise a compact, self-contained side story within the broader Pixar universe.
Toy Story of Terror is a fun, spooky twist on the beloved Toy Story formula, swapping epic adventures for a cozy, Halloween-themed thriller set in a roadside motel. When Bonnie’s toys get accidentally left behind during a road trip, they find themselves trapped in a creepy inn where disappearing toys and flickering lights make them suspect something sinister is afoot. The atmosphere is just scary enough for kids (think shadows, suspense, and Mr. Potato Head as a noir detective) but still packed with the humour and heart we expect from Pixar. It’s clever, well-paced, and full of great character moments, especially for Jessie, who takes charge with her usual fiery energy. While it doesn’t reach the emotional highs of the main films, it’s a solid little horror-comedy that plays like a love letter to B-movie tropes and classic monster movies. The animation is sharp, the gags are spot-on, and it’s refreshing to see the toys shine without Woody or Buzz stealing every scene. It’s not essential, but as a Halloween treat or a quick family watch, it delivers exactly what it promises: chills, laughs, and toy-sized bravery. Light, fun, and perfectly spooky.
Rating: ★★★ | Year: 2013 | Watched: 2025-09-25
Where to watch (UK)
Stream: Disney Plus
Rent: Rakuten TV
Buy: Apple TV Store · Rakuten TV · Amazon Video
Physical: Amazon UK
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