The first Toy Story came all the way back in 1995. The fifth part comes out in 2026. It has been a journey of three decades. Who said non-living objects don’t grow?
Cast: Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie), Greta Lee (Lilypad), Conan O’Brien (Smarty Pants)
Director: Andrew Stanton
Language: English
Toys are more than just objects, especially for toddlers who grew up sans technological pandemonium. They are prized possessions that unfortunately get lost in the evolution of time. But a film about them can surely hurl us into the realms of memories and nostalgia. The first Toy Story came all the way back in 1995. The fifth part comes out in 2026. It has been a journey of three decades. Who said non-living objects don’t grow? Pixar has been one of the most imaginative and intriguing studios that have pioneered the genre and landscape of animation in cinema. The creators behind the franchise are John Lasseter, Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton, Joe Ranft.
Tom Hanks is one of the voiceover artists. The franchise, which started in 1995 with Toy Story, revolves around a diverse group of toys, led by Sheriff Woody, a classic cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a futuristic spaceman action figure. It was followed by releases in 1999, 2010, and 2019. Hanks has voiced Woody for over three decades. It’s said the 69-year-old movie star, according to the co-director, instantly connected with the idea of portraying Woody as an older character for the fifth installment. But how does one pull off the characters and their conflicts for five films and three decades?
More from EntertainmentToy Story 5 explores contemporary themes such as the growing dependence of children on digital devices, with the makers attempting to strike a balance between traditional play and modern technology. It is written and directed by “Finding Dory” fame Andrew Stanton, who worked as a writer on the previous four films, and co-directed by Harris.Harris, who is set to make her feature film debut with the animated comedy-drama, described directing the globally loved franchise as an “intimidating” experience, which eventually got “easier” with the support of creative team and Stanton. A lot has happened in the lives of these iconic characters that might be wooden in form but not in feelings.
The toys are back and this time, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie. Will playtime ever be the same?
The film approaches the theme of gadgets and traditional toys through the perspective of Jessie, who views technology as a threat due to her past experiences. Toy Story 3 is largely the most popular, successful, and searing in the series. The new film may not be as overwhelmingly emotional or moving, but credit must be given to the makers to ensure this one too reaches the finish line. The animation in the West will always be miles ahead than what happens in India and it’s more than just the budget constraints. The landscape here often loses the battle between homage and blatant plagiarism.
The adventures of Bonnie and Woody may have just reached their finish line. It could be both intriguing and indulgent to see if the makers come up with another Toy Story. The dazzling returns may turn into diminishing ones. But Pixar could maybe spring a rabbit out of their hats. Time to wait and watch!
Rating: 3 (out of 5 stars)
Toy Story 5 is now playing in cinemas
