The Making of Toy Story (1995): Behind the Scenes of Pixar’s Breakthrough Film

Before Toy Story became a global phenomenon and redefined animation forever, it was an ambitious experiment in computer-generated storytelling. In 1995, to mark the release of this landmark film, Disney aired a special documentary titled “The Making of Toy Story”, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Pixar brought its first full-length feature film to life.

Narrated by Bo Peep Herself

Annie Potts, the voice behind Bo Peep, narrates the documentary. Her warm narration style makes this special more than just informative—it feels like a guided tour through animation history. Through her voice, viewers explore how Pixar’s team tackled what was once thought impossible: a fully computer-animated movie that tells a compelling, emotional story.

Insights from the Toy Box

The documentary includes exclusive interviews with Pixar legends:

• John Lasseter discusses the vision and artistic challenges.
• Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reflect on giving voice to iconic characters.
• Pete Docter, who would later direct Monsters, Inc. and Up, shares insights from his early days at Pixar.

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They reveal how animators overcame countless obstacles to create expressive characters, believable textures, and unforgettable moments like Woody’s jealousy or Buzz Lightyear’s space-fueled delusions.

A First-of-Its-Kind Movie

Toy Story wasn’t just a technical breakthrough—it had heart. The special highlights how Pixar’s focus on story and character made their technology truly come alive. Animators studied toys, acted out scenes, and tested lighting for months to give the film its now-iconic look and feel. The spark launched Pixar into the spotlight—and changed the animation industry forever.

This 1995 special is a time capsule for animation fans and Disney historians. This behind-the-scenes special is a must-watch if you’ve ever wondered how Toy Story leaped from concept to classic.