‘Voice adds life to the animated character’, ‘An animated character is known by the Voice behind it’ and this holds true for legendary animated tales that have left a lasting impression on the viewers. Tom Hanks, the voice behind the Toy Story franchise’s lead character Woody, has not only entertained but also mesmerised people by making Woody an unforgettable character. Definitely Woody has made its place in everyone’s hearts and is much awaited whenever the franchise releases its next part.
Recently, it was reported that Disney sternly spoke to Tom Hanks for having revealed some information about the upcoming sequel Toy Story 4. The actor reportedly said, “Someone stuck a microphone in my face and asked if there was going to be a new film and I said yes and I then got a call from the Disney lawyers who said I couldn’t say anything about the new film because it affects the Disney stock market price.”
Tom was sworn to secrecy by bosses at Pixar’s parent company Disney and so he was bound not to reveal anything. And though he didn’t reveal much yet he received a haul. But, the actor, maintaining his dignity, refuted with a tough answer saying, “Hey, I’m sorry but let me point out, I am Woody, pal!'”
And probably that is how every voice artist should react when it come to his/her dignity. For you can create another animated character but you can’t create the actor to suite the same voice; the actor is irreplaceable. And voice acting is harder than it seems and the hard work is hidden as people are not aware of it. They see the animated character on screen, entertain everyone and have a fun time. Tom mentioned, “Voice acting really hard work – honestly. Woody is very tense and the recording sessions go on for four or five hours so I always come out of a session with my diaphragm having had a workout. It is exhausting.”
Moreover, voice actors have to adapt to appearances as per the character to get a feel of the animation So, Tom admits his new look has made him a subject of many jokes.
If we consider classics like Hotel Transylvania’s lead character Count Dracula voiced by Adam Sandler, Aladdin’s Genie voiced by Robin Williams, Frozen’s Elsa voiced by Idina Menzel and Toy Story’s Woody or rather Tom Hanks , these characters would be futile without these stars behind them. They are known due to these voices, they are recognised due to them!
With the first Toy Story having released on 22 November, 1995, the franchise completed 20 years yesterday. The movie was a joint venture between Disney and Pixar and entertained the world with their gang of animated Toys that come alive among humans. And in these 20 years, the Franchise has come a long way by producing 3 classics and the fourth instalment in production set for release in 2018.