‘Toy Story 5’ Review: Another Classic Masterpiece from Pixar

In 1995, Toy Story set the standard for meaningful, emotional, and humorous animated storytelling, en route to becoming one of the top animated movie franchises of all time. More than three decades later, Pixar continues to evolve that storytelling while still staying true to the heart and charm that made audiences of all ages fall in love with these toys. This remains true with Toy Story 5, as the studio once again has another classic on its hands.

At a time when digital technology shapes much of our daily lives, Toy Story 5 powerfully delivers a heartfelt and timely story that reminds audiences that while new technologies can be useful tools, they shouldn’t replace creative imagination, genuine friendship, and the lessons that come from staying true to who we are. 

‘Toy Story 5’ Is a Reminder of Why Imagination and Human Connection Still Matter in a Digital World

A major highlight of the Toy Story films is their ability to tackle timely topics that resonate with both children just starting to watch them and adults who grew up on them. Unlike the previous installments, which focused on toys being scared of being left behind as their human companions grew older, Toy Story 5 explores a new challenge many young children face today: the impact of screen time on imagination, playtime, and genuine human connection.

For the first time in the franchise’s history, Jessie (Joan Cusack) is at the forefront of the story, rather than Woody (Tom Hanks) or Buzz (Tim Allen) serving as its emotional anchor. The film follows her adventure as she helps Bonnie (Scarlett Spears) navigate a world increasingly shaped by new technological innovations. Jessie’s perspective brings new energy to the franchise, allowing the film to explore familiar themes of friendship, belonging, and self-worth through a different lens. It also gives audiences the opportunity to spend more time with a Toy Story character whose layered and heartbreaking backstory has often been overshadowed by Woody’s character development. 

What made the story particularly appealing was not only having Jessie take on the lead, but the complete confidence writers and co-directors Andrew Stanton and Kenna Harris took to show audiences that technology isn’t the complete enemy, and that there is a balance between digital entertainment and real-world relationships, creative imagination, and personal growth. 

Jessie Headlines a Cast of Iconic Toys

A great Toy Story film is only as strong as the characters in the spotlight, and that wouldn’t be possible without a voice cast filled with Hollywood veterans who continue to bring these iconic toys to life with all warmth and charm. Cusack is ever so wonderful voicing Jessie. She brings the character to life with the same trademark charm, cowgirl energy, and southern drawl that made the character so beloved since Toy Story 2. In Toy Story 5, she is given the chance to be the emotional anchor, and she rises to the challenge with complete ease. 

All the characters around Jessie benefit from her as the lead. Outside of the spotlight, characters are given new dynamics to explore, particularly Buzz Lightyear, whose relationship with Jessie grows in the most wholehearted ways. By the time the credits roll, audiences will find themselves appreciating and loving Jessie even more than they ever have before. 

In addition to Jessie, the returning and new cast of Toy Story 5 are spectacular. The writers successfully revived the clever, adult jokes that made the original trilogy so memorable among their older viewers, but no character benefits more from the humour than Conan O’Brien’s Smarty Pants. O’Brien is famously known for his impeccable comedic timing, and there are moments in this film that will leave the entire theatre howling with laughter.

Together, the entire cast strikes the perfect balance between comedy and emotion, ensuring that Toy Story 5 is a worthy addition to Pixar’s most cherished franchise.  

‘Toy Story 5’ Is As Charming as the Early Toy Story Films

With a story that explores the realities of growing up in a digital world, Toy Story 5 reminds audiences that imagination, friendship, and connection still remain just as important as they were when Woody and Buzz first appeared on the big screen in 1995. By placing Jessie, one of the most emotionally complex and beloved characters, at the core of the story, the film proves that there are still stories left to be told in this universe, whilst honouring the legacy that made Toy Story so special in the first place. 

Alongside its breathtaking animation, meaningful storytelling, renowned musical score, and a celebrated ensemble, Toy Story 5 is proof that a longstanding franchise can still have its charm, heart, and emotional resonance that help make early Pixar films inspiring to audiences everywhere, firmly cementing itself as one of Pixar’s strongest animated films to date. 

Toy Story 5 opens exclusively in theatres everywhere on June 19. Stay tuned to Agents of Fandom socials for all the latest entertainment news and reviews.