Hold onto your hats, Toy Story fans! The teaser trailer for Toy Story 5 has dropped, and it’s stirring up a whirlwind of questions and, let’s be honest, a little bit of confusion. Pixar is bringing back Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the gang, voiced by the iconic Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, to navigate the digital age. But here’s where it gets controversial…
The 50-second clip shows a delivery arriving at Bonnie’s house, the young girl who inherited the toys in Toy Story 3. As INXS’ ‘Never Tear Us Apart’ plays, Bonnie’s mum calls out: “Bonnie, there’s a package for you.” The toys watch nervously as she unwraps a frog-shaped tablet called Lilypad, which suddenly says: “Hi there, I’m Lilypad. Let’s play.” The text across the screen reads: “In summer 2026, the age of toys is over?”, hinting at a tech-themed storyline.
But the biggest question on everyone’s mind? Woody! In Toy Story 4, Woody made the emotional decision to stay with Bo Peep, seemingly ending his journey with the gang. So, why is he back in Toy Story 5? Fans have taken to social media, with one writing, “I thought Woody stayed behind in Part 4 with Bo Peep to start a new adventure? Someone please explain.” Another added, “At the end of Toy Story 4, Woody literally leaves the rest of the toys. And now in Toy Story 5, he’s back with them?”
This plot point has left some feeling like the emotional closure of Toy Story 4 has been undone. Some fans have suggested that a fresh story with new toys might have been a better direction. Others are hopeful, with one fan saying, “You have ONE shot at making this a 10/10, if not, there’ll be backlash like never before.”
However, the excitement is still palpable. The film’s theme of technology taking over children’s playtime is timely, reflecting concerns about children’s increasing attachment to tablets and smartphones. Professor Erin O’Connor of New York University suggests that making a tablet the villain could be a clever way to promote balance. She notes that it “shows that while screens are captivating, too much time with them can crowd out imaginative play and real-life experiences.” Dr. Larry D. Rosen, a professor emeritus at California State University, Dominguez Hills, has some serious concerns about the impact of AI on children, as it may create confusion to young minds.
And this is the part most people miss… The original Toy Story, released in 1995, was a groundbreaking achievement as the first feature-length film made entirely with computer-generated imagery. It was a global phenomenon, earning critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination.
What do you think? Are you excited about Toy Story 5? Do you agree with the fans who feel the plot contradicts the ending of Toy Story 4? Or are you open to seeing Woody’s story continue? Share your thoughts in the comments below!