Pixar’s Lightyear blasts us to infinity and beyond with Buzz Lightyear’s origin story. With a more serious Buzz, heavy storyline, and a scene stealing cat, is Lightyear kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its PG rating, in my Lightyear Parents Guide and Movie Review. Here’s what parents need to know to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for kids. As always, no spoilers!
Lightyear Parents Guide + Movie Review
Disney Pixar’s Lightyear is the prequel film from the Toy Story franchise. It is the story of the real-life Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear, who was the inspiration behind the toy. Remember that movie that Andy watched before he received his Buzz Lightyear toy? Lightyear is THAT movie. Are you still with me?
Chris Evans is the voice of our favorite Space Ranger, which has caused quite the concern for some Toy Story super fans. How could anyone other than Tim Allen be the voice of Buzz? The answer is really quite simple. They’re basically two entirely different characters. The Buzz in Lightyear is the REAL, actual person. The Buzz in Toy Story is a toy. I hope this clarifies some things for you.
Because Lightyear is more of a standalone movie, it tackles themes that are much heavier than we’re used to. It’s dark, twisted, and complicated. This is NOT your typical Toy Story movie.
The Story
Lightyear takes us on an intergalactic adventure, blasting through space and time. When Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear, accidentally crash lands his team’s spaceship into an unknown planet, he not only blames himself, but he makes it his life mission to get everyone back home. The only problem is, he loses years traveling through space at hyperspeed. Each 4 1/2 minute mission is equivalent to 4 1/2 years, causing everyone to age, except him. While his fellow Space Rangers are going on about their lives, getting married, having children, and even grandchildren, Buzz is theoretically stuck in the past.
During his journey, he finds himself a new crew who is eager to help him on his endeavors. The only problem is, they’re a bit of a disaster. Buzz needs to learn to put his trust in others and realize that you can’t complete every mission on your own. There are other people he can depend on, and there is power in working as a team.
While Chris Evans shines as Buzz Lightyear, his supporting cast certainly does not disappoint. The diverse crew includes Taika Waititi, Keke Palmer, and Dale Soules, all bringing something unique to the table.
But the G.O.A.T. of Lightyear is the robot cat, Sox (voiced by Peter Sohn). He’s the real MVP, being a complete scene stealer every chance he gets. Sox is the sidekick we didn’t know we needed. I foresee him having the popularity of Baby Yoda. He certainly won me over!
The Visuals
Lightyear is Pixar’s first theatrical release since the pandemic. Prior films have been pushed straight to Disney Plus. Pixar reminded us why their movies belong on the big screen. The life-like animation and crisp, vibrant details all paint the perfect picture. Buzz looks like an actual person, rather than a cartoon, and you really feel like you’re looking into outer space. There were moments where I felt like I was watching Chris Evans as Captain America in a live-action film. It’s as if Pixar has some sort of magical powers to create the most amazing onscreen visuals.
IS LIGHTYEAR KID-FRIENDLY? HERE’S YOUR PARENTS GUIDE:
A more serious Buzz, a heavy and sometimes dark storyline, time travel, and a pretty cool robot cat. Is Lightyear okay for kids, or is it made more for diehard Toy Story fans? Here’s what parents need to know before watching Lightyear with their kids.
Lightyear has an MPAA rating of PG for action and peril. It has a runtime of 1 hour 40 minutes, aka: a pretty sweet spot time duration for kids. However, with a more serious tone and even darker elements, let’s break down the thematic elements and take a closer look.
Language
Nowadays it seems that even movies with a PG rating have some sort of questionable words you wouldn’t like your children to hear. It was refreshing to see there is literally nothing to report in Lightyear. No profanity, and no other poor words choices.
Violence
Buzz Lightyear is a Space Ranger, you will see him battling robots. There are guns, lasers, explosions, chase scenes, and several moments of peril. Zurg makes his grand entrance, and he’s dark and scary. Think in relation to Darth Vader.
One of the characters mentions being in prison and being on parole. Words like “incarcerated” and “convict” are used.
Mature Content
There is a death of a character as well as a same sex kiss. The kiss is super quick, but it’s worth mentioning (and celebrating), because it’s the first same sex kiss in an animated movie. Standing ovation goes to Pixar for breaking down those walls. Onscreen inclusion is important. Everyone needs to feel seen.
Age Recommendation
Lightyear definitely has a darker feel then the other Toy Story movies. Chris Evans’s character is very complex. While there are a few laugh-out-loud moments, I feel Lightyear has multiple dimensions. You will feel all the emotions. Sometimes all at once. I would recommend Lightyear for ages 8 and up. Younger children still might enjoy the movie, however, I don’t know if they would necessarily “get it.”
Overall Thoughts
Lightyear is an EPIC sci-fi adventure. It’s the Buzz Lightyear origin story we didn’t know we needed. Chris Evans crushes his role as a galactic superhero, and you’ll NEVER look at Zurg the same way again. MAJOR plot twist that will have you picking your jaw up off the floor! Lightyear is action-packed and filled with surprising heartfelt moments that will tug at your heart. This prequel will have you asking questions and leave you wanting more. Pixar has done it again — this time in hyperspeed. Blast-off to your nearest theater and see Lightyear TODAY!
P.S. Keep your eyes peeled for loads of Toy Story Easter Eggs, and even a hilarious pun on Disney’s Frozen. Don’t miss the THREE end credit scenes…especially that last one!! One more thing…you’ll never look at sandwiches the same.
And one more time….Sox. You’re going to love him, your kids are going to love him. He deserves alllll the robot cat treats.
LIGHTYEAR SYNOPSIS
From Disney and Pixar comes an animated sci-fi action-adventure — the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear (voice of Chris Evans), the hero who inspired the toy. “Lightyear” follows the legendary space ranger on an intergalactic adventure alongside ambitious recruits, Izzy, Mo and Darby, and his robot companion Sox. As this motley crew embark on their toughest mission yet, they must learn to work as a team to escape the evil Zurg and his dutiful robot army who are never far behind. Space Ranger who would win generations of fans.
Follow Pixar’s Lightyear on Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/PixarsLightyear/
https://twitter.com/pixarslightyear
https://www.instagram.com/pixarslightyear/
Hashtag: #Lightyear
I HOPE YOU FOUND THIS LIGHTYEAR PARENTS GUIDE AND MOVIE REVIEW HELPFUL FOR YOUR FAMILY. WILL YOU BE SEEING LIGHTYEAR IN THEATERS?!
Looking for more Disney and Pixar movies? Don’t miss these posts HERE!
Download your FREE printable Lightyear Activity Packet HERE!
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