Summary

Disney teased the plot ofToy Story 5,and the gang’s new great obstacle will bring the movie franchise full circle. D23 2024 came with a concept image and some story details, allowing audiences to get excited about this upcoming installment. While there is still a lot to learn, it appears that the approachingToy Story 5will explore a very modern problem—technology. As screens become all the more accessible and appealing for children, toys may be pushed to the wayside. How will Buzz, Woody, and the rest handle such an obstacle? Only time will tell.

Theconcept image that Disney revealed at D23 2024sees Bonnie hiding under a blanket with a glowing screen while her toys, which include Woody, Buzz, Rex, Forky, and more, look on with concern and frustration. Of course, this presents a variety of questions.Toy Story 4’s endingsaw Woody head out with Bo Peep to be a lost toy while Buzz and the rest returned to Bonnie’s room. It will be interesting to see if Woody really does return or whether this concept art is meant not to be taken literally. Regardless, the central point is clear:technology will be the new big probleminToy Story 5.

A composite image of Buzz and Woody smiling and hugging in Toy Story in front of concept art from Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5: Release Date, Cast, Story & Everything We Know

Despite Toy Story 4’s perfect ending between Buzz and Woody, Disney has announced Toy Story 5, and here’s everything we know so far.

Toy Story 5’s Technology Problem Perfectly Reflects The First Movie

Toy Story 5 Is Mirroring The Conflict From The Original Movie

The toys ofToy Storystruggling to compete with technology is a perfect angle for this next installment since it’s a modern parallel to the central conflict in the first film. The1994Toy StorymoviesawWoody, an old-fashioned rag doll, become jealous when Andy began playing with a high-tech space ranger. The story explores this evolution in children’s entertainment, ultimately resolving the issue as Woody and Buzz learn to work together to be there for Andy.

Now, 30 years later, it seems that theToy Storytoys will face a similar issue, but high-tech, plastic toys with karate chop arms, spring action wings, and a laser aren’t the problem anymore. Now, tablets with colorful andfun apps are what have children captivated and distracted from their traditional toys. Still, it’s the same lesson for a different age. Woody (or whoever populates Bonnie’s room these days) is likely to be once again reminded of his purpose as a toy—to be there for his kid when she needs him.

Collage of Woody flying with Buzz and the rest of the toys in the background

Does Toy Story Coming Full Circle Mean This Is The End?

This Sounds Like A Fitting Ending For The Franchise

The fact that theToy Storyfranchiseis coming full circle could indicate that Pixar is ready to bring things to a close. It appears thatToy Story 5will be of the same spirit as the first movie, bringing back the big conflict between older toys and whatever is shiny and new. This would be an excellent note to end things on, especially since such a concept would centralize the passing of time and nostalgia for the originalToy Story. The past fourToy Storymovies were massively successful, so there’s every indication thatToy Story 5will be as well. It may bebest for Pixar to end things on a high (and satisfying) note.

The Toy Story Franchise Could Reasonably Go On Forever

The Possibilities Are Unlimited

Whileending withToy Story 5would undoubtedly be poetic, there’s no real reason Pixarmust call it quits. The fact that the original conflict ofToy Storycan be repeated 30 years later proves this. Every year, companies release new toys and gadgets meant to keep children entertained. While children accept these willingly, there is no shortage of traditional dolls, race cars, plastic dinosaurs, piggy banks, and Mr. Potato Heads to go around. Toys may change, but imagination is timeless. Therefore, Pixar could feasibly still be makingToy Storymovies in another 30 years.

Toys may change, but imagination is timeless.

Bo Peep looking serious in Toy Story 4 with Woody and Buzz shaking hands in Toy Story behind her

It’s possible that Disney still has no idea whetherToy Story 5will be the last. If the upcoming film performs at the box office as well as its predecessors and critical reception remains high, thenthe House of Mouse will likely take this as a sign that audiences want more. New generations of kids have fallen in love with Woody and the gang, and adults who grew up watching these characters are just as hooked. Only time will tell, and while the day may come when it’s time to say goodbye toToy Story, it’s comforting to know that it doesn’t have to be for good.

Toy Story 5

Cast

Toy Story 5 follows Buzz, Woody, Jessie, and the rest of the gang as they confront a new challenge to playtime posed by advanced technology. Set to release in 2026, this installment continues the beloved Toy Story series with its familiar cast facing modern dilemmas.

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