Toy Story 3

It's been eleven years since we last saw Buzz, Woody and the rest of the gang, so it was with a mixture of excitement and trepidation that I sat down to watch this, the final chapter of the Toy Story saga. The previous films are two of the best loved children's films of the 90s, and personal favourites of mine – would Pixar be able to keep the magic alive, or, as with most second sequels, would the law of diminishing returns apply?

I'm relieved to tell you that not only were my fears put to rest, but my expectations were actually exceeded. The imagination and commercial bravery of the folks at Pixar is awe-inspiring. Their films have always been shining examples of great storytelling and memorable characters, but their recent output has found an increased emotional depth and sophistication. Just as in Up, Toy Story 3 isn't afraid to tackle themes of death and growing old, making it a story that's just as resonant – or perhaps even more so – for adults as it is for kids.

Andy has turned 17 and is heading off to college, leaving his now-unused playthings either dumped in the attic or, even worse, in the trash. Woody realises that no matter where they are, they will always remain Andy's toys, even after he's too old to play with them. It's truly touching, and will strike a chord with anyone who has had to discard childhood belongings and face adult life. The painful realisation that we all must eventually outgrow things we love is captured beautifully and this bitter-sweet sense of melancholy permeates the film, working on levels far beyond your average children's film.

There are also some genuinely scary moments involving a freaky doll, and a surprisingly real sense of peril when the toys face incineration. Comparing it to the first two films, the stakes have really been raised for these toys, and it's probably Pixar's darkest film to date. But let's not forget this is a comedy: the serious elements are balanced out by plenty of warm-hearted humour and wit, as well as some hilarious new characters, best of all Ken, whose metrosexual relationship with Barbie is a distinctly modern joke. It's a family film in the truest sense, with layers of comedy that will appeal to people of all ages, and plenty of imaginatively staged set pieces.

We've become so used to boundary-pushing CGI that it's easy to overlook how gorgeous the animation is, every frame filled with such detail and visual wit. The story – the toys are accidentally shipped to a daycare centre and must try to escape – is slightly reminiscent of the second film, and I won't waste space talking about the 3D, which is fine but adds nothing to the enjoyment of the film. But if it's not perfect, Toy Story 3 comes as close to perfection as anyone could hope for from a third instalment. In the end it's all about these much-loved characters, who each get their moment to shine in an emotionally satisfying finale.

It's another miracle from Pixar, and, if it is indeed the final chapter, Toy Story 3 provides a fitting end to what has turned into one of cinema's great trilogies.

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