Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang's jobs are challenged when they're introduced to electronics, a new threat to playtime.
(C) Disney
By the fifth entry in a franchise not based on any existing novel or property, it can be challenging to tell a story that feels worthwhile and not forced to audiences. Naturally, the same concern arose before seeing Toy Story 5, but leave it to Pixar to still have a meaningful story to tell thirty years after the first film came to life.
To get it out of the way, the film is not without its flaws. This time around, the buildup to its climax feels a bit rougher than that of its predecessors. Darker in tone, it takes its time developing the story.
While Greta Lee's Lilypad adeptly provides intrigue, Conan O'Brien's Smarty Pants doesn't land as well as hoped in the comedy department. The film also leans heavily on the expectation that Pixar typically delivers by the end.
But deliver it does because once the film reaches that key moment, everything just clicks. I'd be lying if I said I didn't shed a tear during that scene. Now centered around her, Joan Cusack's Jessie leads a heartfelt adventure about redefining one's purpose. In the age of technology, the film's commentary on connection speaks volumes, and director Andrew Stanton, together with co-director Kenna Harris, finds the right balance for audiences of all ages. It may again be a smaller-scale story, but Pixar makes it feel epic, thrilling, and heartwarming all at the same time.
Millions will likely see Toy Story 5 on the big screen, spanning all ages and demographics. It's nice to know that what they're about to see carries something of real value and relevance. For that alone, 'Toy Story 5' is already triumphant. Pixar magic still alive. 3.5/5
