When it comes to Disney and Pixar Animation, The Toy Story franchise has always held a special place in my movie history. Being born in 1993, I have grown up watching the evolution throughout the Toy Story films. Toy Story 5 paints a portrait of how much reality has changed, yet there is a strong sense of having a heart for the past. Directed by McKenna Harris and Andrew Stanton, the invigorating animation in this franchise still tops the charts. The toy clan is still together in different places, but their new challenge is today’s reality with screen-time. 

When it comes to technology, the new adventures of Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Buzz (voiced by Tim Allen), and Jessie (voiced by Joan Cusack), involve finding ways to get the attention of the kids in the neighborhood who are all hooked on their tablet devices. Looking back at the previous Toy Story films, there was not yet this form of technology featured. The writing in this film syncs up with the transitions that have occurred over time. The animation combined with the writing seeks to inspire audiences of all ages.

Looking back in time, the toys now find themselves fading into the past. This aspect of the story is central to this fifth installment of the franchise. The choice of technology over toys is inevitable. The fight for love and attention does not come easy, but with positive teamwork and the spirit of “YOU GOT A FRIEND IN ME” hope springs eternal in this timeless adventure. 

The well-done animated scenes are worthy of admiration in Toy Story 5. Whether the scene is in someone’s old bedroom, a backyard, or a forest—the toys find ways to keep pushing forward. That is the Toy Story movies never fail to entertain people of all ages. The special role that toys play in people’s lives sparks joy which is noteworthy again in this fifth edition. 

This time around, there is a device called a Lilypad (voiced by Greta Lee), a new device holding the children’s attention. The primary child character is Bonnie (voiced by Scarlett Spears), and she is aching for attention. Her parents have resorted to technology to help her fulfill her need for friendship. Bonnie still has a connection to the toys, yet feels pressured to fit in by dismissing them. Woody, Buzz, and Jessie fight for the sentimental value that toys hold. 

Jessie plays a bigger role in the fight this time, because her adventures bring her back to where it all began. The memories from Toy Story 2 came back to me due to Jessie’s story especially when she realizes that a previous connection to someone can be dismissed. Toy Story 5 inspires viewers to never let go of what is most important in our lives. It also still reminds us that technology should never take the place of  human connection. Even though the focus of the story is on the toys, they also fight for humans to remain together.

When it comes to beloved characters Woody and Buzz, their leadership is still entertaining. This time around, they live in different places yet find themselves collecting dust. This tactic added to the technology focus makes for many joyful adventures in Toy Story 5. The movie gives audiences a chance to look back at the past and compare it to the present. It also piques curiosity about what may happen in the future. The popular quote, “TO INFINITY AND BEYOND,” still resonates in Toy Story 5. The competition for love and companionship lands just right in Toy Story 5.

Toy Story 5 is not only noteworthy due to the wonderful script, but also because it illustrates how much today’s kids rely on technology over playing with toys. I will be fully open. As someone on the spectrum, I remember loving to play with toys, even those related to the Toy Story franchise. In the 1990s, there were far fewer advancements in technology. Watching Toy Story 5 reminded me that kids today often play online more than they do in person. While both options offer a form of connection, this movie offers a gentle reminder that technology can have a detrimental impact. Therefore, choosing to step away from screens to play with friends or toys the old-fashioned way can lead to great enjoyment. Can Buzz, Woody, and Jessie find a way to get that message into Bonnie’s head? Find out in Toy Story 5. Four out of four stars.