Pixar may have another crowd-pleaser on its hands with ‘Toy Story 5.’
The beloved franchise returns June 19, bringing Woody, Buzz and Jessie back for a new adventure centered on one very modern problem: screens. This time, Bonnie becomes fascinated with Lilypad, a new tablet voiced by Greta Lee, leaving her traditional toys feeling pushed aside.
That sends Jessie and Buzz on a mission to bring Woody back and remind everyone why old-school play still matters.
‘Toy Story 5’ Faces The Digital Age
Tom Hanks returns as Woody, with Tim Allen back as Buzz Lightyear and Joan Cusack returning as Jessie. The new cast also includes Conan O’Brien and Craig Robinson.
Early reactions suggest Pixar has found a way to make the fifth film feel fresh, funny and emotional.
Molly Edwards of GamesRadar+ said the movie made her laugh and cry, while praising Jessie’s bigger role.
“I loved ‘Toy Story 5’!” she wrote. “Seeing Jessie take center stage was a treat.”
She also called the army of Buzz Lightyears “absolutely hilarious.”
Critics Praise Jessie’s Big Moment
Variety’s Jazz Tangcay called the film “magical and pure perfection.”
She praised it as a strong addition to the franchise and said Jessie finally gets her time in the spotlight.
“It’s a rollercoaster of emotions,” Tangcay wrote. “Funny, heartwarming, and flawless from start to finish.”
Other early viewers echoed that reaction. Podcaster Daniel Baptista called the film “a generation-defining experience,” while critic Scott Menzel said it delivers the classic Pixar mix of humor and heart.
Pixar Appears To Have Another Winner
The challenge for ‘Toy Story 5’ was always obvious. How do you continue a franchise that has already delivered several deeply emotional endings?
According to early reactions, Pixar may have found the answer by leaning into a timely story about childhood, technology and connection.
The toys are back. The tears are apparently back too. And if the first reviews are any sign, ‘Toy Story 5’ may give audiences one more reason to believe this franchise still has life in the toy box.
