Watching the trailer for Toy Story 3, I was struck by the effortless ease with which it all comes together. Back in Andy’s room, the ensemble cast of characters led by Woody and Buzz greet us like familiar old friends. Simple stuff.

But don’t be deceived. There is nothing simple about the Toy Story phenomenon. Nothing is left to chance. The success of this entertainment juggernaut is due to the absolute imperative of bringing together the very best talents available for every part of the process. You know the theory about a chain only being as strong as its weakest link? Watch Toy Story and you will not find a single weak link.
What an incredible collaboration of talent. Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios no less! Woody and Buzz voiced by Tom Hanks and Tim Allen respectively. Listen to the piggy bank talk and you might recognise the doleful tones of John Ratzenberger, the guy who played Cliff Clavin, the postman from Cheers. Music? Let’s talk to Randy Newman. And so it goes on, wonderful scripts brought to life by lots of wonderfully talented people.

So, a simple thought:

Always work with the very best people you possibly can and watch how they consistently bring a great deal more to the project than they promised. One more observation, in my experience you have more fun working with great people.