Of all the movies made, only a tiny fraction are nominated for the Academy Award for Best Motion Picture. These fortunate few showcase compelling scripts, lavish sets and the very best actors.
Like Woody and Buzz.
This year’s Best Picture nominees include Toy Story 3, another computer-generated triumph from Pixar Studios. And though no humans appear on screen, the voices behind the animated characters are supplied by some very familiar Hollywood actors.
Does that make a difference? If Woody and Buzz weren’t backed by the voices of Tom and Tim, would the original movie have been as successful? Maybe. It had laughs and plenty of action. Yet there are probably a dozen other animated films each year, some with good plots and action. And low-name voices. Many of these movies fail because they don’t connect with their audience, an element crucial for the success of a movie – or a marketing campaign.
Toy Story films tap emotions common to a universal audience. They draw upon a strong story and amazing visuals. But it’s the voices behind the toys that bring the story to life.
I can’t wait to see Woody and Buzz fight over who accepts the award.
