Lightyear

The origins of space ranger Buzz, who inspired the action figure in Toy Story, are revealed in this lively spin-off from Pixar. Stranded on a desolate planet with hundreds of other explorers, our hero embarks on a succession of test flights to achieve the necessary hyperspeed to help them escape - only to find that for every failed 60-second mission he attempts, life on the planet moves forward four years. The space-time continuum plot may not hold up to close scrutiny, but the laws of physics don't get in the way of this affectionate homage to bygone science-fiction serials. Taking over from Tim Allen as the voice of Buzz, Chris Evans gives the character warmth and boyish charm without losing any of the hero's requisite courage. The result is a joyful romp packed with the kind of gags and emotion that Pixar does so well.