Is ‘Toy Story 3’ homophobic and sexist?

Toy Story 3 has won great reviews and major box office success. But some reviewers see the film from a different angle – a very negative angle – that may affect our children’s view of homosexuality and what it feels like for a girl in this world. An “overly emotional” Barbie and “fashionista” Ken seem to be starting all the trouble!

The Independent says, “…the film is homophobic in its depiction of the doll Ken as a closeted gay fashionista with a fondness for writing in sparkly purple ink.” And states that, “Pairing homophobia with misogyny, the jokes about Ken suggest that the worst things a boy can be are either a girl or a homosexual.”

The film finshed number one at the US box office last weekend, taking $110m. Featuring the voices of stars such as Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack, the final instalment in the Toy Story series shows what happens to cowboy Woody and spaceman Buzz Lightyear when their owner, Andy, grows up and goes to college.