It has been 30 anniversary since the original Toy Story film was released, establishing Pixar as a major film company and introducing viewers to iconic figures like Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), who are now household names.
Coming in 2026, the fifth installment is scheduled for release. The first teaser trailer for Toy Story 5 landed recently, providing a brief look into the storyline but leaving viewers wondering how it will resolve the ending of Toy Story 4.
The preview reveals Bonnie — who received the toy collection when he left for college — getting a latest plaything, one that alarms Woody, Buzz, and the crew. Bonnie acquires her initial digital gadget, and she is thrilled about it.
Presumably, the frog-shaped tablet will animate just like the rest of her playthings. Still, the toys appear to consider it as a threat coming to replace them, which it probably is.
An element the teaser avoids is what Woody is back with his companions in Bonnie's room. The finale of Toy Story 4 saw him embark on a new adventure with the shepherdess (Annie Potts), traveling with a carnival and assisting prize toys locate loving owners.
Certainly, the filmmakers will explain the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the film. Witnessing him appear in the familiar setting unexpectedly is a little strange, however. It also makes us wonder whether his partner will have returned with him. And where is the stuntman toy (the star)?
At the very least, some elements are carrying over from the prior film. The last thing Woody did before departing for his new life was hand over his symbol of authority to Jessie (Joan Cusack), leaving her in charge of the toy domain. In the teaser displays the badge attached to her outfit.
Hopefully she is remains the key figure among the toys.
Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters on the scheduled date.
Lina is a digital strategist with 10+ years in tech consulting, specializing in cloud solutions and cybersecurity.
Brad Henderson
Brad Henderson