Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, November 23, 1995                   TAG: 9511220044
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 9   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: MIKE MAYO CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

HUMAN ELEMENT MISSING FROM `TOY STORY'

Younger kids who are used to computer animation and the fast-paced, frenetic action of some contemporary TV cartoons will enjoy this story of the secret life of toys. But to older children and adults brought up on conventional animation, the film's too-bright flatness makes it somehow cold and unemotional.

The filmmakers do everything they can to overcome that quality. The story zips right along making full use of the extreme perspectives and dizzying movements that computers can provide. The characters - human and non-human - have strong personalities; the humor is geared to all ages; and the conflicts are clearly drawn.

Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is young Andy's (John Morris) favorite toy. He's a cowboy "action-figure" and the leader of the other toys: Mr. Potato Head (Don Rickles), Slinky Dog (Jim Varney), Tyrannosaurus Rex (Wallace Shawn); Bo Peep (Annie Potts); Hamm, the piggy bank (John Ratzenberger); and Sergeant (R. Lee Ermey). who commands the bucket of plastic soldiers. Whenever Andy's away, they get up and go about their own business.

Overall, life is good for the toys in their suburban home, but birthdays and Christmas make them nervous. New toys will be introduced and older toys may be tossed aside. Woody finds his position threatened with the arrival of Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), an astronaut action-figure.

Where Woody is an amiable pragmatist, Buzz believes his own advertising. He thinks he's a superhero, able to fly "To Infinity ... And Beyond!" Further complicating the situation are Sid, the mean kid next door, and an imminent move to a new house.

Seven writers share story credit, and director John Lasseter never lets the pace drag. A lot happens in this short (77 min.) film. But fast action can't replace the missing human element.

In his wonderful autobiography, "Chuck Amuck," animator Chuck Jones tells of the time an adult introduced him to a child by saying, "He draws Bugs Bunny." The child answered skeptically, "No, he draws pictures of Bugs Bunny." It's an important distinction, and no one will ever make it about "Toy Story."

Toy Story ** 1/2

A Disney release playing at the Salem Valley 8 and Tanglewood Mall. 77 min. Rated G.