It seems like everyone has a connection to Toy Story. Whether you grew up alongside Andy or watched your kids grow up with him, this franchise has always resonated across generations. Despite being a series of animated movies about talking toys, these movies only become more meaningful with age. These films have always offered great lessons about friendship, kindness, and sharing for younger audiences, as well as more mature themes of purpose, individuality, and moving on. Toy Story 3 wrapped up Andy’s story in the best way possible, and everyone said goodbye to the franchise, at least for 9 years.
Toy Story 4 wasn’t received the best by critics or audiences alike, but in fairness, after the third installment had one of the best endings to a trilogy ever, there wasn’t much they could do here that wouldn’t receive some backlash. Toy Story 4 aimed to tie up Woody’s story, taking the focus off of Andy’s needs and instead looking at Woody’s. The movie as a whole is still a fun time, but some felt it didn’t do quite enough to justify revisiting the franchise 9 years later. When Toy Story 5 was announced, again people wondered, “Do we really need another Toy Story?”
Thankfully, Pixar had a compelling answer to that question.
Toy Story 5 tackles a question most parents have been too afraid to ask: How do kids grow up in a technological age? Which is not only an important question, but is also really interesting as the foundation for a story. It should surprise no one that if any studio had a good answer to this question, it’s Pixar. The film puts Jessie at the forefront, who is the perfect leader for the toys as they try to adapt to Bonnie receiving her first device, a Lilypad. While the writing isn’t perfect and the journey to the end can be a little messy at times, when it all does finally come together, Pixar Magic.
Andy going to college, Carl and Ellie’s book, or Miguel singing to Coco, Pixar always manages to deliver a moment that absolutely tears your heart out, and Toy Story 5 may have one of the best ones yet. This film was already a great time, with strong emotion and storytelling throughout, but this moment made everything click in the most tear-jerking way. I think everyone over the age of 20 had red eyes and stuffy noses walking out. Of course, none of that would work without the wonderful cast bringing these toys to life.
The original voice cast returns once again, and it’s as fun as ever. Tim Allen and Tom Hanks let their years show a little, but for the most part, remain the same bickering toys audiences have loved for three decades. Joan Cusack delivers a standout performance as Jessie, it’s hard to believe it took this long for her to take the lead. These films always bring in at least one new face, and this time around, it’s Conan O’Brien, who proved to be a really fun addition.
While Toy Story 4 wasn’t for everyone, the animation was one of a kind. Animating a ceramic toy, in the middle of a carnival with flashing lights, all squeezed like it was shot with an anamorphic lens, this was Pixar just showing off. Toy Story 5 chooses to keep it a little more restrained, and honestly, it suits the franchise better. The animation team uses the “playtime” sequences to stretch their creativity, and it’s a blast every time. This franchise wouldn’t be the same without the iconic score and soundtrack by Randy Newman. Thirty years later, hearing those same themes can transport you back to a much simpler time.
Toy Story 5 feels much more reminiscent of the first three movies, telling a story that speaks to children and the adults who grew up with these characters. Raising kids in a world filled with tablets, social media, and short-form stimulation is uncharted territory for many parents, and there isn’t a clear path forward. While countless films in the past few decades have explored the dangers of technology and AI, Toy Story 5 takes a different approach. Instead of warning audiences about a dystopian future, it reminds them of what could be lost, and why it’s worth holding onto. Toy Story 5 may stumble a few times along the way, but in the end comes together beautifully, showing that no matter how many new devices come out each year, nothing will ever replace the lifelong memories made from true connection and imagination.
4/5 Stars
