Disney and Pixar have released a new trailer for Lightyear today and it is fantastic. Telling the origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the man who inspired the toy, Lightyear follows Buzz as he attempts to escape from an alien planet he and his crew have been stranded on. What follows is an intergalactic adventure in true Disney/Pixar fashion.
While the trailer keeps much of its secrets close to its chest, we do see get to see what looks like the inspiration for Emperor Zurg is and a whole host of villainous goons.
In addition to Buzz, we’re also able to catch glimpses of other Space Rangers wearing the iconic uniform of Star Command.
Lightyear
Pixar has always been particularly adept at making films for both adults and children alike, however, given that Toy Story is now approaching 30-years old, it feels like Lightyear is a love letter for kids who grew up with the original.
“Buzz’s world was always something I was excited about,” said director Angus MacLane. “In Toy Story, there seemed to be this incredible backstory to him being a Space Ranger that’s only touched upon, and I always wanted to explore that world further. So my Lightyear pitch was, ‘What was the movie that Andy saw that made him want a Buzz Lightyear toy?’ I wanted to see that movie. And now I’m lucky enough to get to make it.”
The inclusion of David Bowie’s Starman as a soundtrack to the trailer further highlights the demographic who are really going to geek out over Lightyear.
Chris Evans stars as the voice of Buzz and is joined by Keke Palmer, Dale Soules and Taika Waititi. However, the trailer introduces Buzz’s Robot companion, Sox, voiced by Peter Sohn who is definitely going to steal the show. Other cast members include Uzo Aduba, James Brolin, Mary McDonald-Lewis, Efren Ramirez and Isiah Whitlock Jr.
The cast for Lightyear is truly a dream team. Each of the performers immediately inhabited their character, which gave us the opportunity to play a bit during recording sessions. This resulted in a level of specificity that elevated the material and brought additional depth to the characters’ relationships. It has been a privilege to work with such a talented and generous cast.
Lightyear is coming to theatres on June 16, 2022.
