For years, fans of both Pixar and Studio Ghibli have enjoyed the artistry and stories from the beloved studios, but there is actually a hidden Toy Story 3. This exciting crossover is something that many fans, even the most die-hard ones, may have missed. Seeing this iconic character in a Pixar film is a testament to the deep, though now-ended, partnership between Disney and Studio Ghibli.

Totoro’s brief but memorable appearances happen in Bonnie’s room, where he sits among her plush toys, and again at the end of the film when Andy gives away his toys before heading to college. This charming Easter egg may seem small, but it shows the period of time when Disney played a major role in bringing Ghibli films to English-speaking audiences. However, this relationship eventually ended, leading Ghibli to seek new distribution partners.

The Totoro Cameo in Toy Story 3

A Crossover Fans Never Saw Coming

Pixar's Toy Story 3 is filled with heartfelt moments, but few fans expected to see a character from a Japanese animated film in the mix. Yet, there Totoro is, comfortably sitting in Bonnie’s room, looking just as soft and huggable as he does in My Neighbor Totoro. His inclusion in the film was likely a nod of appreciation from Pixar animators, who have long ired Hayao Miyazaki’s work. Totoro does not play a role in the story, but his presence speaks volumes about the influence of Studio Ghibli.

This cameo is more than just a fun Easter egg because it represents a connection between two of the most respected animation studios in the world. My Neighbor Totoro is one of Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films, and Pixar’s acknowledgment of it within Toy Story 3 shows the studio’s iration for Miyazaki’s storytelling. Even though Totoro does not speak or move in the film, his presence is enough to delight fans of both studios.

Disney and Studio Ghibli’s Former Partnership

From Disney to GKIDS: The Evolution of Ghibli’s English Releases

The presence of Totoro in a Pixar film was not random, it was the result of an important partnership between Disney and Studio Ghibli. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Disney was responsible for dubbing and distributing many of Ghibli’s films in English, helping to introduce classics like Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke to Western audiences. This collaboration allowed Ghibli’s films to gain recognition outside of Japan, expanding Miyazaki’s influence on global animation.

Today, Ghibli works with GKIDS for English distribution, while Disney continues to focus on its own expanding empire.

However, the partnership eventually came to an end. Disney's contract with Ghibli expired, and the two companies went their separate ways. Some speculate that Miyazaki’s dissatisfaction with Disney’s handling of certain aspects of his films, combined with Disney’s shifting priorities, such as acquiring Lucasfilm, led to the split. Today, Ghibli works with GKIDS for English distribution, while Disney continues to focus on its own expanding empire. Despite the separation, the My Neighbor Totoro cameo in Toy Story 3 is still a nostalgic reminder of the time when these two animation giants were closely connected.

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