“Toy Story 5” has received an enthusiastic first wave of reactions from film press, with early viewers praising Pixar’s latest sequel as emotional, funny, warm and a strong return to form for the studio. Many critics say the film captures the heart and humor that made the franchise a classic, while also feeling timely and fresh nearly 30 years after the original movie.
Scott Menzel called the film one of the strongest entries in the series, saying it stands alongside the first three “Toy Story” films and blends humor, heart and Pixar’s signature magic. He described it as a heartfelt reminder of why the franchise remains one of the greatest film series ever made and suggested it could become one of the best movies of 2026.
Daniel Baptista of “The Movie Podcast” also praised the sequel, calling the experience “generation-defining” and saying it delivers the story audiences need right now. He singled out Conan O’Brien’s Smarty Pants as a standout new character and said the film puts Jessie at the center of the story while still giving Woody and the rest of the gang meaningful moments.
Variety’s Jazz Tangcay echoed the praise, calling the film magical and pure perfection. She highlighted Jessie’s long-awaited spotlight, calling the movie emotional, hilarious and genuinely moving, while also praising the addition of new characters. Collider editor Meredith Loftus said the movie hit her harder than expected, especially in the way it explores the divide between toys and technology through Jessie’s perspective. She placed it alongside “Toy Story 2” and “Toy Story 3” in terms of quality.
The plot of “Toy Story 5” reunites Woody with Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the toys after the events of “Toy Story 4,” which ended with Woody leaving to help abandoned toys. In the new film, Buzz and Jessie have been leading Bonnie’s playroom in Woody’s absence, until an iPad-like tablet called Lilypad disrupts their world and brings the group back together. The cast includes returning stars Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack, along with newcomers such as Greta Lee and Conan O’Brien.
Director Andrew Stanton said Lilypad is a threat to the toys because they are intimidated by technology, but the character is meant to reflect the next stage in Bonnie’s life rather than pure villainy. Stanton, known for “WALL-E” and “Finding Nemo,” is directing a “Toy Story” film for the first time, though he previously worked on the stories and scripts for all four earlier movies.
“Toy Story 5” is set to open in theaters on June 19 through Disney. Early reactions suggest the franchise is still capable of delivering a heartfelt, emotional and crowd-pleasing adventure.
