A three minute series shouldn’t warrant a review, right?
But then again, not every show is Disney Plus’ new “talk show,” Forky Asks a Question.
The premise here is extremely simple — the breakout character from Toy Story 4 (Forky) asks a question from another Toy Story character. In the premiere episode, “What is Money?” Forky (Tony Hale) asks the always glib Hamm (John Ratzenberger) … well what exactly is money?
The resulting “interview” is a laugh-filled back and forth between the characters that is also rooted in old-fashioned educational programming. In between Forky’s odd outbursts (usually revolving around his eyes or arms), Hamm actually puts forth an explanation, albeit a glib and cranky one, on what money is.
As the father of a four-year-old who asks a lot of questions, I watched her soak in everything Hamm said. The show reminded me of back “in my day” when short programs like Picture Pages would teach you some basic knowledge. After this episode aired, her and I talked about what the show said, and she now understood what money was. This series explained to her more clearly what money is, than any time I tried. Now, to be fair, these conversations always take place either way too early in the morning for me to put sentences together, or way too late at night when she should be asleep.
In many ways, Forky Asks a Question mimics a conversation between a child and adult. Forky, who was literally just created, has no idea what anything is. So, it’s up to the older, more wisened toys who’ve been through 20+ years of adventure, to explain things to him. Forky’s silly asides, and “Oh what’s this” gesticulations reminds you of any time you explain something to a kid. It’s silly for sure, but also grounded in such relatable reality.
However, this isn’t what makes Forky Asks a Question so wonderful.
There’s a moment where Forky and Hamm are talking and Forky says, “Money cannot be as good as spending wonderful times with friends like you.”
Record scratch. Stop the presses. Get me a tissue.
Of course, after Hamm mentions how beautiful a statement it is, Forky, like a kid, is goofing around making his eyes shake around his head. Perfect.
It’s this type of message that really makes this show special. It’s not just educating kids about “what money is” but that friends are way more important than money. Sure, we adults can roll our eyes that Disney, which has more money than half the world, is saying money isn’t important. But, for a kid, this is a great reminder of what’s important in life — friendship, not money. And let’s face it, as adults we need that reminder too.
So, for three minutes, sit down and watch Forky Asks a Question. It’s funny, it’s genuine, it’s educational, and it teaches a good lesson. This is quality family programming, and as a dad, it’s a show I will look forward to watching with my little version of Forky (she’s not trash, trust me), every Friday.
