Episode 40: Toy Story 4 (with special guests)

Toy Story 4. Jeremy Downing and William Chen have separate conversations in different parts of the world. The first is with Georgie Swan and the second is with Jon Portinga. The first conversation is lead by Jeremy, talking with Georgie Swan, during a conference focused on Indigenous Education, hosted in Auckland, New Zealand. The discussion begins about the first three Toy Story films and what they mean to both Georgie and Jeremy, specially around the social conscience of Pixar films. They then talk about the place of Toy Story 4 in the series and the overall arc of the characters, as well as how the films are able to connect to children and adults. Talk then moves into the themes, around the ideas of where toys go to die and the idea of brokenness. Conversation then focuses on the role Woody plays in the film, with the ensemble taking more of a back seat. The second conversation is lead by William, talking with Jon Portinga, at a cafe called Sara's Table, in Duluth, USA. Discussion between William and Jon starts around the history of the Toy Story films, looking at the greatness of the first film. They then get into a discussion around the success of the sequels, specifically the simplicity of the first two films and then the escalation of Tory Story 3. Conversation then moves into a discussion around Toy Story 4 and the experience of watching the film at a local Duluth cinema. They then discuss the role of Po Beep and her representation throughout the films, as well as what she brings out in the films. Discussion then moves into exploring the concept of Woody being a surrogate parent to various characters, like Bonnie and Forky, as well as an exploration of usefulness and a person's purpose. This conversation then moves into a chat around Gabby Gabby and the role she plays alongside Woody, as well as how she sits alongside previous villains, Stinky Pete and Lotso. The discussion finishes with a chat around how Toy Story 4 is the conclusion and feelings towards that conclusion.