Toy Story 5 Movie Review

In “Toy Story 5,” Pixar brilliantly introduces a new character named Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee of “The Morning Show.” Lilypad moves in on the territory of all toys, and everything in general, in a more frightening way than we’ve seen in the past. ​
Before, another toy might have been discovered if given to a kid, but it can’t hold a candle to a device that takes the child’s attention away from everyone and everything around them. They are hardly ever put down.

Since Toy Story was originally released back in 1995, there are a few mentions of age in this one, especially toward Woody, the oldest. He needs some brown marker for his “bald spot.” Pay attention to little gems like these; they keep you interested and sometimes wondering if maybe you’re the only one in on the joke.

The toys are being replaced by technology, something they can’t compete with, and when they try to rectify the situation, they run into the very devices that sparked their kids’ love of electronics. Now, they themselves have been replaced by bigger and better ones. It’s a new world, and they’re all left wondering, do toys such as dolls still fit in? Have they become obsolete and outdated for good? They used to be the first thing a child would pick up and hug when they opened their eyes; now a toy is under the bed and when their kid awakens, they immediately grab their Lilypad or such device to see what awaits them.

So, the film is a commentary on what we see going on in the real world. Kids in chat rooms, instead of talking to people who are right in front of them. But this film has a goal, which is to limit screen time and get two little girls to play together with toys, using their imaginations, in what now has become old-fashioned. Watching this play out will practically bring tears to your eyes. I got all the feels.

The original characters are wonderfully written, and their characters are strong. What you get from the newbies is a lot of fun and memorable scenes. These characters are Lilypad, Smarty Pants, a potty-training toy brought to us by Conan O’Brien, and Atlas, an old GPS toy, voiced by Craig Robinson. They’re fantastic and have contributed a lot to the premise about what shapes young minds today.

Don’t miss this for the fart jokes, the extra Buzz Lightyears, and Bo Peep’s love. The new characters are cute and fun. This is a don’t miss. By the way, stay for an original song at the end by Taylor Swift, and remain in your seat for the end credit scenes.