Lightyeardirector Angus MacLane has clarified the connection between the new film and the Toy Story franchise. Lightyear, Pixar’s upcoming animated sci-fi film, follows the story of the real-life space ranger Buzz Lightyear as he learns to become a galactic hero in Star Command. The character originally appeared in 1995’s Toy Story, voiced by Tim Allen. Buzz Lightyear has since become a vital part of the family film series; appearing in all four installments including 2019’s recent Toy Story 4.
Lightyear is set to see Avengers: Endgame star Chris Evans take up the role of the real Buzz that inspired Toy Story’s astronaut action figure. Distancing itself from the whimsical talking-toy franchise, Lightyear looks to offer a more action-based sci-fi tale of a Buck-Rogers-esque space hero. The film is being directed by Pixar’s Angus MacLane. MacLane previously directed several short films featuring the Toy Story characters; including Toy Story Of Terror and Small Fry. Having co-directed 2016’s Finding Nemo sequel Finding Dory, MacLane will now helm the latest Pixar feature film release.
