“Toy Story 2,” the highly acclaimed sequel to Pixar’s groundbreaking “Toy Story,” introduces a range of new characters and plotlines that expand the beloved universe of sentient toys. One of the most memorable new characters is Al McWhiggin, the greedy toy collector who serves as the film’s primary antagonist. This article explores what happened to Al in “Toy Story 2”, his motivations, actions, and the consequences he faces by the end of the film.
Al McWhiggin
Al McWhiggin, voiced by Wayne Knight, is the owner of Al’s Toy Barn, a large toy store. He is first introduced as a collector of rare and valuable toys, particularly those from the vintage Woody’s Roundup collection. His character is defined by his greed and obsession with completing his collection, even at the expense of the toys’ autonomy and happiness.
Al’s Obsession with Woody’s Roundup
Al’s primary motivation throughout the film is to acquire Woody, a rare and valuable cowboy doll from the Woody’s Roundup collection. Woody’s Roundup is a fictional 1950s television show featuring Woody, Jessie the Cowgirl, Bullseye the Horse, and Stinky Pete the Prospector. Al has already collected Jessie, Bullseye, and Stinky Pete, and Woody is the final piece he needs to complete the set.
The Kidnapping of Woody
The story kicks off when Woody is accidentally placed in a yard sale by Andy’s mother. Al, who happens to be at the yard sale, recognizes Woody as the missing piece of his collection. He offers to buy Woody, but Andy’s mother refuses, knowing Woody is not for sale. Undeterred, Al steals Woody, setting off the main conflict of the film.
Al’s Plan and Woody’s Discovery
Al takes Woody back to his apartment, which is filled with toys and memorabilia from Woody’s Roundup. Here, Woody learns about his origins and meets the other members of the Woody’s Roundup gang. Al’s plan is to sell the complete set to a toy museum in Tokyo, where they will be preserved and displayed. This prospect appeals to Jessie, Bullseye, and Stinky Pete, who see the museum as a chance for eternal admiration and escape from the risk of being discarded by children.
Woody’s Dilemma
Woody faces a significant dilemma: stay with his newfound friends and be admired in a museum or return to Andy, his beloved owner. Initially, Woody is tempted by the idea of being part of a complete set and being admired forever. However, he ultimately realizes that his true purpose is to bring joy to Andy and be played with by a child.
Al’s Actions and Their Impact
Al’s relentless pursuit of profit and completion leads him to take drastic measures to ensure the success of his plan. He is depicted as a man driven by greed, willing to go to great lengths to acquire and sell valuable toys. His actions throughout the film highlight the darker side of toy collecting, where the value of the toys is seen solely in monetary terms rather than the happiness they bring to children.
Selfishness and Greed: Al’s character is a personification of greed and selfishness. His willingness to steal Woody and manipulate the other toys for his gain underscores his disregard for their feelings and autonomy.
Deception and Manipulation: Al uses deception to get what he wants, as seen when he steals Woody and later when he manipulates the Woody’s Roundup gang into believing the museum is their best option.
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The Climax: Airport Showdown
The film’s climax occurs at the airport, where Al is attempting to ship the Woody’s Roundup gang to Tokyo. Woody, with the help of Buzz Lightyear and the other toys, stages a daring rescue to stop Al’s plan. The toys navigate the airport’s intricate baggage system, leading to a thrilling and action-packed sequence.
Consequences for Al
In the end, Al’s plans are thwarted. The toys successfully rescue Woody, Jessie, and Bullseye, leaving Stinky Pete behind as his true colors are revealed. Al is left devastated as he watches his prized collection disappear. His final scene shows him in a state of despair, talking to a television commercial for his toy store, lamenting the loss of the valuable toys.
Symbolism and Themes
Al’s character and actions in “Toy Story 2” serve to highlight several important themes and messages:
The Value of Toys: The film underscores the idea that the true value of toys lies in the joy they bring to children, not in their monetary worth or rarity.
Greed vs. Happiness: Al’s greed contrasts sharply with the toys’ desire for happiness and purpose. His pursuit of profit leads to his downfall, while the toys’ pursuit of love and play leads to their fulfillment.
Autonomy and Freedom: Al’s actions represent the broader theme of autonomy and freedom for the toys. The film emphasizes the importance of toys having the freedom to choose their destinies rather than being controlled or confined for someone else’s benefit.
Character Analysis: Al McWhiggin
Al McWhiggin’s character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the objectification of toys. His obsession with completing his collection blinds him to the true nature of the toys and their desire for autonomy. Here are some key aspects of his character:
Greed-Driven: Al’s primary motivation is financial gain. He sees the toys only as valuable commodities that can bring him wealth and status.
Manipulative: Al is willing to deceive and manipulate others to achieve his goals. His theft of Woody and manipulation of the Woody’s Roundup gang are prime examples of this trait.
Short-Sighted: Al’s short-sightedness prevents him from seeing the bigger picture. He fails to recognize the deeper value of the toys and the joy they bring to children.
Impact on the Story
Al’s actions drive the plot of “Toy Story 2,” creating the central conflict that the main characters must resolve. His character adds depth to the story by presenting a tangible antagonist whose actions have significant consequences for the toys. The resolution of his plotline reinforces the film’s core messages about the value of toys and the importance of autonomy and freedom.
Audience Reaction and Legacy
Al McWhiggin is remembered as one of the more memorable antagonists in the “Toy Story” series. His character adds a layer of realism to the story, reflecting the real-world issues of toy collecting and the commodification of childhood artifacts. While he is not a traditional villain, his actions and motivations make him a compelling and relatable antagonist.
Final Thoughts
Al McWhiggin’s role in “Toy Story 2” is a pivotal one, driving the film’s plot and highlighting key themes about the value of toys, the dangers of greed, and the importance of autonomy and freedom. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the objectification of toys and the true meaning of value and happiness. By the end of the film, Al’s downfall serves as a reminder that greed and selfishness often lead to loss and regret, while the pursuit of joy and purpose brings fulfillment and happiness.