Toy Story 5 Review: The Magic Is Still There
The kid in me cannot stop smiling. I saw Toy Story 5 nearly a week ago, and I've been thinking about it ever since. Going into the film, I was excited but admittedly cautious. After all, if you ask me, there has never been a bad Toy Story movie. I still remember the anticipation leading up to Toy Story 3 back in 2010. When that film ended, I walked away convinced there was absolutely no way Pixar could top it. To this day, I still believe Toy Story 3 delivered the perfect ending. In my mind, there was no need for another Toy Story movie after that. Then Toy Story 4 arrived. Much to my surprise, I enjoyed it quite a bit and found plenty to appreciate about the direction Pixar chose to take the story. So heading into Toy Story 5, my feelings were very similar to what they were before the fourth film. I was excited to revisit these characters, but I couldn't help wondering whether there was still something meaningful left to say. Could a fifth installment really justify its existence? Could Pixar find a way to make these characters feel relevant again without simply relying on nostalgia? The answer, thankfully, is yes. What I found was a film that not only justifies its existence but also serves as a powerful reminder of why Toy Story has remained one of the most beloved animated franchises of all time. Rather than retreading familiar ground, Toy Story 5 finds a fresh and timely story to tell while staying true to the heart, humor, and emotional honesty that have defined the series for more than three decades. Simply put, Toy Story 5 is really good. Not great, but really good.
Directed by Andrew Stanton and co-directed by Kenna Harris, Toy Story 5 picks up several years after the events of Toy Story 4. Jessie, Buzz, and the rest of Bonnie's toys find themselves facing a challenge unlike any they've encountered before as Bonnie becomes increasingly fascinated with technology and a new device known as Lilypad. As traditional playtime begins to give way to screens and digital entertainment, the toys are forced to confront questions about their purpose and relevance in a changing world. What follows is a heartfelt adventure that explores the role of technology in childhood while celebrating the enduring power of imagination, friendship, and the bond between a child and their toys.
At its core, Toy Story 5 is about connection, purpose, and finding your place in a rapidly changing world. The film explores these ideas through the lens of toys trying to understand their role in a generation growing up differently than those before it. While concerns about technology replacing traditional play aren't exactly new, Pixar approaches the subject in a thoughtful and surprisingly fresh way. The film never feels preachy, instead using humor and heartfelt storytelling to explore its message. Several of the technology-related jokes early on earned a couple of chuckles from me and helped establish the film's central conflict in a fun, relatable way.
What impressed me most was how naturally the story balances its themes with the adventure and entertainment audiences expect from a Toy Story film. The movie is genuinely funny, filled with sharp dialogue, clever jokes, and moments that had the entire theater laughing. Even during quieter scenes, you could feel the smiles spreading across the audience. At the same time, the humor never overshadows the emotional core of the story. Pixar understands exactly when to make you laugh and when to make you feel, and Toy Story 5 delivers plenty of both. By the time the credits rolled, I found myself reminded why this franchise continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The cast is fantastic across the board, blending the familiar charm of returning favorites with some memorable new additions. One of my favorite aspects of the film is how much it allows Jessie to step into the spotlight. After spending years as a beloved supporting character, she finally gets the opportunity to carry a significant portion of the story, and the result feels long overdue. Jessie brings so much heart, humor, and determination to the film that it's impossible not to root for her every step of the way. In many ways, this feels like the Jessie story fans have been waiting years to see. Previous films established just how deeply her relationship with her first owner, Emily, shaped who she is, giving us one of the franchise's most emotional storylines. This film builds upon that foundation, doubling down—and perhaps even tripling down—on those feelings of love and loss. The film uses these themes to further explore Jessie's character and the emotional baggage she still carries. Again, this is the part of the film I was the most invested in.
The newcomers also make a surprisingly strong impression. Characters like Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee, and Smarty Pants, voiced by Conan O'Brien, quickly establish themselves as more than just additions to an already crowded toy box. Each brings a unique personality and perspective that serves the story in meaningful ways. Lilypad, in particular, was not at all the character I expected her to be, and that unpredictability made her one of the film's biggest surprises. Meanwhile, Smarty Pants delivers several of the movie's funniest moments, many of which are sure to leave audiences smiling. There are a few other standouts as well, and none of them feel as though they exist simply to expand the roster. Each contributes meaningfully to both the comedy and emotional core of the film. Together, the returning cast and fresh faces create an ensemble that feels vibrant and renewed while still honoring everything audiences have come to love about Toy Story over the past three decades.
Now, I will admit that as much as he is loved, Woody is not an integral part of the film's central premise. That may come as a surprise to longtime fans, especially considering how closely the franchise has been tied to him since the very beginning. While Woody certainly has his moments and remains an important presence throughout the story, it often feels as though he's included more as a bridge to the franchise's legacy than as a driving force behind the narrative itself. Buzz Lightyear also takes a more supporting role this time around. While he remains an important member of the team, the story isn't particularly focused on him either, allowing other characters the chance to step forward and shine. Some viewers may find themselves wishing for a little more Woody or Buzz, but I appreciated that Pixar wasn't afraid to shift the spotlight and explore different perspectives within this world.
At the end of the day, what matters most is that the chemistry between the characters remains intact. Even when certain members of the gang aren't front and center, there's still something comforting about seeing them all together on another big-screen adventure. These characters have become like old friends to many of us, and simply watching them share the screen again brings a sense of warmth and familiarity that few franchises can replicate. While Jessie may be leading the charge this time, Toy Story 5 never forgets that its greatest strength has always been the family these toys have created together.
The last thing I have to highlight is the animation. Simply put: wow. Nearly three decades after the original film changed animation forever, Pixar continues to push the boundaries of what's possible. From breathtaking environments and stunning lighting to incredibly expressive character animation, Toy Story 5 is a visual showcase from beginning to end. Every frame is jam packed with detail, bringing this world to life in ways that feel both technically impressive and completely natural. What makes the achievement even more impressive is that the film never allows its technical accomplishments to overshadow the story. As gorgeous as the animation is, the heart of Toy Story 5 remains front and center. The visuals enhance the emotional journey, serving as another tool to strengthen the film's themes of connection, purpose, and growing up in a changing world.
In the end, Toy Story 5 is a home run. It's a film that successfully honors the legacy of the franchise while still finding something fresh and meaningful to say. Funny, emotional, heartfelt, and full of the magic that made audiences fall in love with these characters in the first place, Toy Story 5 proves that their stories still matter 31 years later. I laughed, I teared up, and I left the theater reminded why this franchise continues to resonate generation after generation. The kid in me couldn't stop smiling. And honestly, I don't think he will anytime soon.
Rating:
★★★★☆ (4/5)
Toy Story 5 hits theaters this Friday, June 19.
Disclaimer: All images used in this review are © Walt Disney Studios and Pixar Animation Studios and are included for review, commentary, and editorial purposes only.
