Tin Toy 1988
"A scared, Tin Toy realizes he really wants to play."
In John Lasseter's groundbreaking 1988 animated short Tin Toy (1988), a tiny tin toy named Tinny faces his greatest fear—not monsters or darkness, but the overwhelming chaos of a single, relentless baby.
Director: John Lasseter
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tin Toy (1988) about?
This five-minute animated short follows Tinny, a small tin toy, as he escapes the chaotic attention of a baby who sees him only as a plaything. After realizing his fear might be misplaced, Tinny seeks connection—but by the time he does, the baby's interest has already moved on.
Who directed Tin Toy?
Tin Toy was directed by animation legend John Lasseter, who later co-founded Pixar Animation Studios and became a pioneer of CGI filmmaking.
Who stars in Tin Toy?
The film features a single voice cast member, Sárközi Olivér, who voices the nervous tin toy Tinny.
Is Tin Toy (1988) worth watching?
Despite its short runtime, Tin Toy is a cinematic gem that showcases early Pixar innovation and Lasseter's storytelling genius. Its themes of fear, desire, and impermanence resonate universally, making it a must-watch for animation enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
How long is Tin Toy?
Tin Toy runs for 5 minutes, offering a concise yet impactful story.
🎥 Trailer
About Tin Toy (1988) — A Pixar Classic Short That Redefined Animation
In John Lasseter's groundbreaking 1988 animated short Tin Toy (1988), a tiny tin toy named Tinny faces his greatest fear—not monsters or darkness, but the overwhelming chaos of a single, relentless baby. As Tinny dodges a drooling infant's grasp, the film captures the surreal nightmare of being a plaything in the eyes of a child who sees the world through curiosity and destruction. Lasseter's direction infuses the five-minute runtime with a playful yet suspenseful atmosphere, blending the whimsical charm of classic toys with the stark reality of an infant's unpredictable energy.
The story pivots when Tinny, initially terrified, begins to crave the very attention he once fled. By the time he understands this desire, the baby's fleeting gaze has already shifted to something new—leaving Tinny caught between longing and the fleeting nature of childhood wonder. With themes of abandonment, desire for connection, and the bittersweet passage of time, Tin Toy (1988) transforms a simple toy's journey into a poignant reflection on the human condition.