It’s not every day that a movie made two decades ago suddenly grabs headlines. But when Pixar decides to tweak one of its all-time classics, you better believe people are going to talk. And talk they did when Toy Story 2 received a little post-production nip and tuck, decades after its original release. The culprit? A controversial joke during the end-credit bloopers, featuring none other than Stinky Pete and a couple of Barbie dolls.
Let’s Take a Trip Down Memory Lane
For those who need a refresher, Toy Story 2 came out in 1999, and like any good Pixar film, it was a hit, charming both kids and adults alike. It was praised for its humor, animation, and those sneaky little jokes tucked away for the grown-ups. The film’s bloopers were a particular delight, showing our beloved toys in a behind-the-scenes, Hollywood-esque setting. But among the laughs and chuckles, there was one blooper that didn’t age quite as gracefully as the others.
The Blooper in Question
Here’s the scene: Stinky Pete, the prospector, is caught in a box with two Barbie dolls. He’s being his charmingly awkward self, asking, “So, you two are absolutely identical?” and casually offering them a role in Toy Story 3. If that wasn’t cringey enough, he then tries to cover up his flirtatious behavior when Woody catches him red-handed. Cue awkward laughter and some raised eyebrows.
But Wait, It Gets Weirder
Fast forward to 2019, and Pixar decided that maybe, just maybe, this little blooper wasn’t quite in line with modern sensibilities. In a move that surprised some and satisfied others, they quietly removed the scene from the Toy Story 2 Blu-ray and Disney’s streaming platform. The change didn’t go unnoticed, and the internet was quick to voice its myriad of opinions.
The Internet Reacts (As It Does)
Social media lit up like a Christmas tree with reactions. One user wrote, “I always thought it was inappropriate,” while another chimed in with, “This was honestly a good call.” It seems many viewers had been side-eyeing the scene for years, waiting for its inevitable reckoning.
But hold on to your cowboy hats, because not everyone was ready to say goodbye to Stinky Pete’s antics. Some fans argued that the scene was merely a reflection of its time and should have stayed put. One supporter remarked, “I don’t see it as inappropriate; I think it’s more appropriate than ever.” Another fan added, “Comedy often highlights genuine issues,” pointing out that Stinky Pete was, after all, the villain of the piece.
You Thought That Was It? Think Again.
The debate didn’t stop there. With the cultural shifts of the last decade, particularly the MeToo movement, many saw the joke as a relic of a less enlightened era. It wasn’t just about a toy being a bit cheeky; it was about the broader implications of power dynamics and consent, even in a kid’s movie.
Some argued that removing the scene was an overreaction, a case of modern audiences being a tad too sensitive. Others felt it was a necessary step in acknowledging that certain behaviors, even when portrayed by animated characters, aren’t as funny as they once seemed.
Wrapping It Up
So, here we are, in a world where even beloved classics aren’t immune to the scrutiny of evolving cultural standards. While some nostalgic fans may cling to their old DVDs, most will find the joke has been gently swept under the rug, leaving Toy Story 2 just a little bit shorter.
Whether you’re cheering Pixar’s decision or shaking your head in disbelief, one thing’s for sure: this little blooper has certainly made a big splash! And if nothing else, it’s sparked a conversation about the intersection of humor, culture, and time, proving once again that even toys have a lot to teach us about the real world.