Toys Are for Play

Nearly 31 years after the original film hit theaters, Toy Story 5 proves there’s still plenty of life left in Pixar’s signature franchise. And thank God — or Disney, anyway — for that.

This latest installment may not be the best film in the series, but it’s all relative, which means it’s still a funny, heartfelt film that speaks to both kids and adults, and it’s better than most other offerings at your local cinema right now. 

It’s been seven years since Toy Story 4, and while time certainly passes more slowly in the world of the series, Toy Story 5 has an inevitable hook: The toys find themselves confronting a world that’s been changed dramatically by the introduction and ever-presence of handheld devices. 

Eight-year-old Bonnie, who has owned Buzz, Rex, Slinky Dog, Hamm, et al, since the end of Toy Story 3, is now increasingly drawn to screens and digital entertainment, especially after she receives a tablet — specifically, a Lilypad — from her parents. The gang instantly begins to question their relevance, wondering if there’s still a place for traditional toys in a world where children are growing up with technology at their fingertips. As Woody (Tom Hanks) says, sadly, “Toys are for play. Tech is for everything.” 

Most affected by all of this is Jessie (Joan Cusack), who emerges as the film’s lead character. Still heartbroken by the previous owners who outgrew her, Jessie wrestles with questions about purpose, friendship, and change, and what it means to be there for a child in the modern world.

One of the smartest choices writer/director Andrew Stanton (who has written all but the third film) makes here is shifting that focus. Woody and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) remain essential to the story, of course, but this is very much Jessie’s movie. The change gives Toy Story 5 a different kind of emotional resonance than the previous entries had. After decades of seeing the world primarily through Woody’s eyes, there’s something refreshing about allowing another character to carry the narrative. Cusack rises to the occasion beautifully, voicing Jessie with warmth, humor, vulnerability, and quiet determination.

As you can probably tell, the premise is not what anyone would call subtle. Toy Story 5 has a very clear message and a strong perspective to convey (ironic, though it is, given how instrumental technology is in the creation of the series — and all of Pixar’s work, for that matter). And yet, Stanton and co. use it as a springboard for a thoughtful exploration of connection, imagination, and the role that play still has in our lives. The film tackles modern concerns without ever feeling preachy, finding smart and often moving ways to bridge the gap between generations. 

In other words, Toy Story 5 is classic Pixar: A film for kids that also offers adults plenty to think about and enjoy. 

To that end, the humor lands consistently, the animation is gorgeous even by Pixar’s sky-high standards, and several emotional moments sneak up on you when you least expect them. Tears will definitely be shed.

Most importantly, the film never loses sight of what has always made the series special: its deep affection for its characters.

That said, longtime fans will certainly notice that certain supporting characters are given very little, if anything, to do here. Most notable in that regard are Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head. It’s understandable, given the real-life passing of iconic and irreplaceable actors Don Rickles and Estelle Harris. But it’s sad, nevertheless.

On the other hand, Conan O’Brien as a retro potty-training toy named Smarty Pants who, like most every other toy in the ensemble, is fighting to remain relevant, is a welcome addition to the cast. Yes, this means there are a lot of pee, poop, and fart jokes. Greta Lee (Past Lives) also does a nice job as the voice of Lilypad.

No, Toy Story 5 isn’t my favorite entry in the franchise. The original trilogy remains a towering achievement, and few films will ever pack an emotional wallop as strong as Toy Story 3. But that hardly matters when the film itself is this enjoyable. Rather than trying to outdo its predecessors, Toy Story 5 carves out its own identity while staying true to everything audiences love about these characters.

More than anything, the film reaffirms Pixar’s place as the best animation studio in the game. Few film studios can create movies that delight children while simultaneously moving adults, and Toy Story 5 is yet another reminder of that rare gift. We’ll be friends forever, for sure.

I’m giving Toy Story 5 a B+.