All 5 Toy Story Movies, Ranked by How Much It Will Make You Cry

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Toy Story

The Toy Story franchise has been a staple of animated cinema since its debut in 1995. Known for its heartfelt storytelling, clever humor, and unforgettable characters, each installment has left audiences both laughing and crying. In this article, we’ll explore all five Toy Story movies and rank them based on how much they are likely to make you shed tears.

1. Toy Story 3

Release Year: 2010
The Tear-Jerker Moment: As Andy prepares to leave for college, he must say goodbye to his beloved toys. The emotional weight of nostalgia and letting go culminates in a poignant farewell that resonates with anyone who has ever had to leave behind their childhood.

Toy Story 3 is often regarded as the most emotional film in the series, capturing the essence of growing up and the bittersweet nature of change. The climax, where the toys face the prospect of being discarded, is a gripping moment that tugs at your heartstrings in ways few animated films can.

2. Toy Story 4

Release Year: 2019
The Tear-Jerker Moment: The film introduces Forky, a spork-turned-toy, who struggles with his identity. The moment when Woody decides to stay behind and pursue his own happiness with Bo Peep adds a layer of depth to the story, pushing audiences into a whirlwind of emotions.

Toy Story 4 delves into themes of self-discovery and the importance of finding your place in the world. Woody's growth and ultimate decision to embrace change make this film a close second in terms of emotional impact.

3. Toy Story 2

Release Year: 1999
The Tear-Jerker Moment: When Jessie recounts her previous owner's abandonment, the emotional backstory reveals the pain of being forgotten. This moment not only highlights the importance of friendship but also the fear of losing loved ones.

Toy Story 2 brings a mix of humor and heart, and while it may not hit as hard as the subsequent films, it solidifies the bond between the characters, making its emotional moments impactful.

4. Toy Story

Release Year: 1995
The Tear-Jerker Moment: The original movie's climax, where Woody and Buzz must work together to return to Andy, showcases the true meaning of friendship. The initial jealousy and eventual camaraderie between the two characters provide a touching narrative about acceptance and teamwork.

While the first Toy Story film is filled with laughs and a sense of wonder, its emotional stakes are less pronounced than in later installments, placing it lower on our list.

5. Toy Story That Time Forgot

Release Year: 2014
The Tear-Jerker Moment: This special features the toys navigating the challenges of new action figures. While it has its moments of emotional depth, it primarily serves as a fun adventure rather than a tear-jerking tale.

Though enjoyable, this Toy Story special lacks the profound emotional weight found in the main films, resulting in it being the least likely to cause tears.

Conclusion

Each Toy Story movie brings its unique emotional journey, with themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the inevitability of change resonating with viewers of all ages. Whether it’s the heart-wrenching goodbye in Toy Story 3 or the journey of self-discovery in Toy Story 4, these films remind us of the bonds we share and the moments that shape us.

So, grab a box of tissues and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions the next time you revisit these beloved classics. Which Toy Story movie do you think will make you cry the hardest? Share your thoughts with us!