It’s that time of the year when we all sit around and think of that perfect gift to get somebody. Go ahead and try to convince me that you’ve never Googled “Best Gifts” or another phrase of that sort. Well, I’m here to give you some ideas on what you can pick up for this special person in your life. Is this certain individual a fan of Pixar’s films? “Who isn’t,” you ask? Good answer! Here are suggestions on some last-minute gifts to consider:
I thought I’d start out with the obvious choice. Toy Story 3 was a magnificent film, and the sets that were released this past November are filled with some great extras. The commentaries that accompany the film are fascinating, as the filmmakers share some great stories from their behind-the-scenes work. The other special features are fun and informative, which you can read more about about in my review.
Depending on how much you like this person, you might think about springing for the 10-Disc Toy Story Trilogy box set, officially known as the Ultimate Toy Box Collection. All three Toy Story films are included in the Blu-ray, DVD, and digital copy format. Read more about the great collector’s item here.
If that person already has Toy Story 3 on Blu-ray or DVD, then The Art of Toy Story 3 from Chronicle Books is the next option. This book is packed with stunning artwork of characters, locales, and concepts that were never used. One of the joys I get from reading books like these is getting to view the hard work of many great artists at Pixar.
What we see in theaters is the finished product, so getting a chance to peruse the artwork that helped in the making of the film is like getting to explore the secret Pixar vault. Seeing the process that those geniuses in Emeryville dream up is quite an adventure. This particular art book also comes with a detailed narrative of how the film came to screen. If you were looking for the best look behind the Toy Story 3 curtain, this is it.
The Pixar Treasures from Disney Editions is another great book that just came out in the last few months. Having been delayed for about a year, I can honestly say that it was worth the wait. One way to look at the book is that it is a hands-on look at Pixar and its films. It features pull-out keepsakes like bookmarks, pamphlets, stickers, greeting cards, and recreations of Pixar paraphernalia.
Filled with about two-dozen of these great collectibles, Pixar fans will be overjoyed at the sight of this big hardcover. To read more about this beautiful book, check out my review.
Toy Story Collection Lots-O'-Huggin' Bear
The quality of toys has greatly improved nowadays. They can be more sophisticated and more accurate than ever. The Toy Story Collection from Thinkway Toys present the characters as they were meant to be. Using digital data that Pixar provided, Thinkway created the toys in the line to seem as if they popped right off the screen.
To this date, 11 toys have been released, including Woody, Buzz, Rex, R.C., the Aliens, Mr. Potato Head, and Lotso. Who doesn’t want to add those cute little green Aliens to their collection? For an in-depth look at the Toy Story Collection, click here.
Pixar animator Joe Ranft was considered to be the heart of Pixar. He originally worked with Disney on such films as Nightmare Before Christmas and Brave Little Toaster but transitioned to Pixar around the emergence of the animation studio. Tragically, he lost his life in 2005, but he left behind some amazing work. Two Guys Named Joe gives you an in-depth look at Joe Ranft.
The book (also from Disney Editions) contains rarely seen pictures, concept art, and a detailed history of Ranft’s life and work. You actually also get a great look at Disney legend Joe Grant. As I wrote in my review, the book is touching and well-written. It really does belong in the library of Pixar, Disney, and animation fans.
Now, where do you find these items? I tend to shop at the Disney Store and Amazon, as they tend to have the best selections. Hope this was helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
