Woody, Buzz, and the gang are back in theaters for Toy Story 5, a sequel that proves no matter how definitive an ending may seem, the world of Pixar’s flagship franchise is never truly closed. With the toys now navigating a modern childhood dominated by screen time and digital connection, the film poses a difficult question: How does a franchise built on the tactile joy of physical play remain relevant in a world of tablets and apps?

While the initial announcement of a fifth installment was met with skepticism—particularly after the emotional closure of the previous two films—Toy Story 5 ultimately succeeds as a charming, if not revolutionary, addition to the series.

A Visual Evolution

Pixar’s technical mastery remains undisputed. While Toy Story 5 may not represent the same seismic shift in animation quality that previous sequels provided, it offers a distinct, polished aesthetic. The film excels in blending the heightened, imaginative scenarios of playtime with realistic environments. The attention to texture—from the worn fabric of a decades-old cowboy doll to the sleek, cold interface of modern tech—is rendered with a level of detail that continues to set the bar for the industry.

The Shift to the “Screen Age”

The narrative centers on Bonnie, who is growing up in a world where physical toys are increasingly competing with “Lilypad,” a tablet device that serves as both a social bridge and an obstacle to imaginative play.

The film’s portrayal of this conflict is its most daring choice. By introducing Lilypad (voiced by Greta Lee) as a disruptive force, Pixar attempts to address the digital shift in childhood habits. While the film occasionally struggles to find a balance between its nostalgic roots and the reality of modern connectivity, it avoids a purely cynical take. Instead, it frames the tension through the eyes of the toys, who find themselves forced to adapt or risk becoming relics of a bygone era.

Jessie’s Time to Lead

A major highlight of this installment is the increased focus on Jessie (Joan Cusack), who takes center stage as the leader of Bonnie’s room. With Woody living independently and Buzz serving as her trusted deputy, the film allows Jessie to evolve. Her emotional arc, which touches on self-worth and the lasting impact a toy can have on a child’s life, gives the movie a necessary emotional gravity.

The return of Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz (Tim Allen) is handled with affection, though their roles feel secondary to the new ensemble. While some may argue that their presence feels slightly “tacked on” given the closure of Toy Story 4, their interaction—particularly the return of the Buzz Lightyear units—provides much-needed comic relief and action. Conan O’Brien’s performance as “Smarty Pants,” a forgotten, potty-training toy, is a standout, offering the kind of sharp, self-aware humor that has become a staple of the franchise.

The Verdict

Is Toy Story 5 necessary? Perhaps not in a narrative sense. The franchise has already provided audiences with multiple, satisfying conclusions. However, Toy Story 5 succeeds because it is fundamentally a Toy Story movie: it is funny, visually spectacular, and ultimately grounded in the theme of connection.

The second half of the film in particular finds the “Pixar magic” that many fans have been hoping for, delivering a resonant conclusion that feels both timely and classic. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the original trilogy, it is an adventurous, well-executed chapter that finds a way to move the story forward without sacrificing the heart that made these characters icons in the first place.

Rating: 8/10

What are your thoughts on the latest installment? Did the addition of tech-based villains like Lilypad work for you, or do you think it’s time to put these toys back in the box for good? Let us know in the comments below!