If the first film laid the groundwork, Toy Story 2 somehow takes everything and elevates it. It’s bigger, funnier, and surprisingly more emotional, diving deeper into what it means to be a toy and to be loved.

Woody’s storyline here is incredible. The idea of being preserved forever versus being loved in the present adds a level of maturity that really hits harder as you get older. Jessie’s backstory alone is enough to break anyone, it’s one of Pixar’s most emotional moments, and it still lands perfectly every time.

The humour is sharp, the adventure is exciting, and the characters feel even more developed. It’s one of those rare sequels that doesn’t just match the original, it arguably surpasses it.

A near-perfect sequel that proves lightning really can strike twice.