TOY STORY 5

Toy Story 5 (2026)

Directed by: Andrew Stanton

The franchise reached a satisfying and perfect conclusion with Toy Story 3. While continuing the story beyond that point wasn’t necessary, the later installments have brought something new to the table — this one included.

Technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, affecting every aspect of our lives. Toys are no exemption. Kids’ alarming screen time is a timely and relevant topic, and there’s no better franchise to tackle it than Toy Story.

Extinction of toys due to the evolution of technology is well established in the movie. The harmful effects of excessive tablet use are laid out clearly. It’s commendable how the script values the importance of real human connection over internet connection.

Unfortunately, the script is having a hard time focusing on its own story. It feels like the 𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯-play has too many tabs open, constantly jumping from one idea to another. Much like a kid, the movie suffers from a divided attention span.

There are too many arcs that bring diversion to the story. Buzz Lightyear’s subplot can be removed. Jessie goes through a phase that’s already been explored in earlier films. Unlike before, Forky and Knifey’s mere presence and undamaged appearance create more oddness than charm. Woody’s shiny bald spot is a well-defined detail, but it never fully pays off.

Tech gadgets are the most interesting characters, yet they don’t receive the screen time they deserve.

Instead of digging deeper into the main problem, the characters tend to maneuver around it. Whether it’s confronting playmates or moderating playtime, the movie prioritizes temporary fixes over lasting solutions.

Even when it’s no longer ideal or realistic, the movie goes to great lengths to manufacture heroic moments for the toys. In an attempt to coexist, gadgets are awkwardly reimagined as something else, forcing a relationship that feels out of place.

Although voiced by the same actress, Jessie sounds different due to natural maturing over time. This change creates a sense of distance from the character, stripping away much of the personality and familiarity that have defined her over the years. It’s jarring because Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the ensemble retain their familiar voices.

Songs such as 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘵 𝘈 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘯 𝘔𝘦 and 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘔𝘦 are iconic because they are seamlessly integrated into the franchise’s pivotal and emotional moments. In contrast, Taylor Swift’s 𝘐 𝘒𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘐𝘵, 𝘐 𝘒𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘠𝘰𝘶 fails to capture the same magic. It feels like an isolated track that didn’t contribute much to the story.

Nostalgia factor is missing from this movie, marking a new era for the franchise. While the first three films form a tightly connected trilogy, the newer installments are loosely tied together.

Despite the flaws and technicalities, technology is still shown to have an edge, subtly demonstrating how it can be used responsibly.

Cheesy as it can be, the realizations and lessons along the way are heartfelt and moving. Even though the movie follows the same formula, it never gets old. It still works. Toys are forever.

From here on, the franchise’s path is not clearly defined. It has a future that stretches to infinity and beyond.

The challenge is to stay relevant without losing the magic and nostalgia—maintaining the interest of longtime fans while also attracting new generations.

More than anything, what’s needed is a story that genuinely feels like 𝘛𝘰𝘺 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺.

SEE RANKING FOR

TOY STORY FILMS 1 TO 5 HERE.

𝐓𝐎𝐘 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘 𝟓

Cast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Greta Lee, Conan O’Brien, Tony Hale, Keanu Reeves

Screenplay by: Andrew Stanton, Kenna Harris

Based on characters created by: John Lasseter, Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton, and Joe Ranft

Presented by: Pixar Animation Studios

Release Date: June 17, 2026 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews