by Nigel Powlson

TOY Story 2 was always first among sequels – a follow-up so good it actually knocked a few spots off the first film.

Toy Story was the technical and commercial breakthrough always predicted for computer animation – and employed the combined forces of Disney and the techno wizards at Pixar.

But the sequel, originally released in February 2000, was where Pixar first combined computer brilliance to a fun-packed story that pleased kids and adults alike.

Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is kidnapped by a toy collector who wants to ship him off to a toy museum along with cowgirl Jessie and other collectibles from a cancelled TV show.

But Woody's old pal Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and assorted toys launch a rescue mission – not knowing that the cowboy is starting to enjoy life as a collector's item.

Far from being the limp second part we have come to expect from Disney (check out direct-to-DVD sequels to the Lion King and Pocahontas), this really did step things up a notch or two from the original.

There is fun for kids (the toys crossing the road disguised as cones, a thrilling climax in an airport luggage handling system); sly digs at modern America (the toy collector uses his car to go to work – across the road) and in-jokes for film buffs (watch out for hilarious parodies of Star Wars and Jurassic Park).

The characterisations are above the level of most real life films and the jokes just keep on coming – with Tour Guide Barbie just about winning the best routine award.

It's now been given a 3D makeover as a taster for the third film. But you don't need an excuse to see it again.

TOY STORY 2 (3D)

Cert U

Running time: 89 mins

Starts: Today at the Odeon and Cinema De Lux in Derby and Cineworld in Burton.

Rating: 5/5