Where the Toys Come From

A decent Disney flick (not animated) where you are taken on a journey to discover where toys of all kinds come from. Two odd shaped, bug-eyed toys named Peepers and Zoom, want to know where they come from so they have their owner, a young girl named Robin, take them back to the store as they reverse time to discover their roots. Most of the movie takes place in Japan as the two toys find themselves in warehouses, front offices and an old museum where the toys get a chance to talk to the toys of the 20's, 30's and 40's. You get to see every step of the way for a toy to be made but remember, this movie was made in 1984 so the computers and toys in the movie are pretty darn basic.

I had this on VHS when I was a little kid, and it was one of my favorite movies. The most enthralling part of the movie is that it is "live"-action as opposed to animation, which gives the movie a much more realistic feel to kids. A large portion of the movie is just toys along with music, and all the different types (vintage toys, windup-toys, early video games) are showcased. It also shows how toys are designed and made in a factory, so the movie is educational to a point as well. If I was able to find either of the main character toys, I would buy them in a heartbeat. A great movie for kids, I give it an 8 out of 10.

This is an amazing piece of art. A lot of work and love went into making this film for sure. From antique collectors to toy enthusiasts to film buffs, you will fall in love with this film. With all the toys in action, I was reminded of the scene in Pinocchio (1940) where Gepetto's toys and clocks are all in play at once. Mesmerizing and wonderful.

Thankfully, this gem is available on DVD for everyone who wants to, to own their own copy. You won't be sorry, you'll fall in love with the magic.