Tools of Characterization

Characterization in Toy Story

Actions

Actions do speak louder than words—especially in Toy Story. Woody might try to play it cool when Buzz shows up, but we all know there's a whole lot of insecurity and jealousy bubbling up inside that little cowboy vest.

Especially after Buzz shows off his ability to fall with style:

WOODY: In a couple of days, everything will be just the way it was. They'll see... they'll see. I'm still Andy's favorite toy.

Sure, Woody might say he's Andy's favorite, but deep down, he knows Buzz is a threat to everything that means anything to him. Why else would he keep confronting Buzz, making fun of him, insinuating that everyone would be better off if Buzz were a crater in Sid's lawn, and—oh yeah—pushing him out of a window?

Location

The place we call home says a lot about us. Just look at Andy's house. Granted, the family is moving, but inside their home things are comfortable, cozy, clean, and secure. This is a big deal to toys that basically have to rely on the kindness of the kids who play with them to be safe and secure.

Andy is clearly a kind and thoughtful kid growing up in a kind and thoughtful household. Good for him.

Sid's house, on the other hand, is a real horror show. Woody knows what's he in for before they even set foot through the front door:

WOODY: You guys don't get it, do you? Once we go into Sid's house, we won't be coming out.

At the Hotel Sid, toys check in…but they can never leave. Inside, the whole place is outdated and creepy-looking. Even the patterns on the walls and carpets scream, "horrible things are about to happen here." And Sid's room is no different—it's a total mess and basically looks like a toy torture chamber. ("Toy torture chamber" does actually seem to be its main purpose.)

So, both houses are telling us different things about Sid and Andy. One is a nice boy who loves, cherishes, and respects his toys. The other is a little psycho named Sid.

Geez, no wonder Andy's mom wants to move.

Occupation

Woody and Buzz don't have jobs exactly, but they do have pretty strong identities that are based on real life jobs. Woody is a rootin' tootin' cowboy. He's a pioneer of the Old West. He's a gunslinger with a badge. This guy is vintage and old school and he knows it.

Buzz, on the other hand is a new-fangled space ranger. He's a brave astronaut that flies around in a space ship. He got lasers and lights and sounds coming out of everywhere. This guy is high tech.

So, obviously, these guys clash. Woody sums it up nicely:

WOODY: You are a cool toy. As a matter of fact you're too cool. I mean—I mean what chance does a toy like me have against a Buzz Lightyear action figure?[…] Why would Andy ever want to play with me, when he's got you?

The cowboy represents the old way of doing things. A slower, more natural way. But, the astronaut is advanced and fast-moving. No wonder Andy starts to like him better. Of course, in the end, we find out that there's room for everyone in this little world. Cowboys? Astronauts? Doesn't matter who you are, you're cool with Andy.