Toy Story 5: Film Gang Review

Just when you think a movie has already topped itself, think again. While many believed Toy Story 4 was the final farewell to Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the gang, Toy Story 5 proves there was one more story worth telling. Written and directed by Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris, Toy Story 5 explores the growing impact of technology on childhood play. Featuring the familiar voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack, the film follows Bonnie, who inherited Andy’s beloved toys. Although she loves using her imagination, she struggles to make friends. When her parents buy her a Lilypad tablet, Bonnie finally finds acceptance with a group of classmates. But Jessie the Cowgirl worries that Bonnie is spending more time with a screen than with her toys—or with other children. Her concern is also personal, as Jessie still fears being abandoned as she once was by her previous owner. As Bonnie tries to fit in, she feels pressure to leave her old toys behind. Hoping to help Bonnie find a true friend, Jessie and Bullseye return to the home of Jessie’s first owner. There they meet three forgotten electronic toys—Snappy, Atlas and Smarty Pants, voiced with perfect comedic timing by Conan O’Brien. Jessie is skeptical of them at first but soon realizes these outdated gadgets may hold the key to helping Bonnie connect with another child. The film thoughtfully explores a question many parents face today: how much technology belongs in childhood? It also reminds us how quickly technology itself becomes obsolete. Devices such as digital cameras, GPS units and educational electronics, once considered cutting edge, have already been replaced by smartphones and tablets. Rather than condemning technology, the film suggests that imaginative play and modern devices can successfully coexist. Several entertaining subplots keep the story moving. Woody is coping with a bald spot, Buzz finally gathers the courage to propose to Jessie, and an army of forgotten Buzz Lightyear toys embarks on a hilarious mission to defeat Emperor Zurg. Even Lilypad receives a touching redemption arc after realizing that some of her programming has unintentionally caused Bonnie emotional pain. The film’s most heartfelt moment comes when Jessie realizes that although her former owner has grown up, she has never forgotten the happiness Jessie once brought into her life. It’s a touching reminder that while children may outgrow their toys, the memories they create often last forever. For fans of the Toy Story franchise—now spanning more than three decades—Toy Story 5 delivers a warm, funny and satisfying conclusion to the adventures of the toys we all wished were real. For the KSQD Film Gang: Molly Sullivan.