Toy Story 5 First Reactions Call It a “Return to Form” for Pixar

Disney Pixar’s next big movie is almost upon us, and the buzz is strong. Toy Story 5 had its first screening, and the reactions suggest the sequel is one of Pixar’s strongest outings in recent memory.

That’s good news. While recent Pixar originals have done respectably, Toy Story is the crown jewel in Pixar’s animated franchises. Pixar making a fifth installment of its first film series was seen by some as the studio breaking the glass in case of an emergency. Regardless of the motivation, it sounds like the new adventure is primed to be a hit.

What Are People Saying About Toy Story 5?

Critic Scott Menzel took to social media to share high praise for Toy Story 5. He says, “Toy Story 5 is a wonderfully heartfelt return to form for Pixar Animation Studios and a reminder of why the Toy Story franchise remains one of the greatest film series ever made. Toy Story 5 ranks right alongside the first three films, delivering a perfect blend of humor, heart, and that signature Pixar magic.

He continued, “While the story explores the battle between toys and technology, it never loses sight of what makes these characters so special. Emotional, hilarious, and genuinely moving, Toy Story 5 may very well end up being one of the best films of 2026. Also, Taylor Swift’s “I Knew It, I Knew You” has to be up for Best Original Song this awards season! Toy Story 5 just like part one, two and three is an animated masterpiece.”

Others were a bit more measured in their praise. Germain Lussier of io9 had issues with the pacing of Toy Story 5‘ first act, but ultimately said “they end up paying off with a phenomenal third act filled with all the heart and humor you expect from Pixar. The New York Times critic Kyle Buchanan said the sequel “has the typical Pixar polish and emotional resonance but isn’t afraid to mess with your expectations (the dad is mid).”

The Toy Story Saga Continues

Toy Story 5 Buzz Lightyears — Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 picks up where Toy Story 4 left off. Woody has left the toys he once led behind to enjoy newfound independence alongside Bo Peep. However, when Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the rest of the old toy gang are threatened by Lilypad, a new tablet vying for Bonnie’s attention, they’ll need Woody’s help to keep from becoming irrelevant.

Toy Story 5 features the voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Greta Lee, Conan O’Brien, Tony Hale, Craig Robinson, Shelby Rabara, Scarlett Spears, Mykal-Michelle Harris, Matty Matheson, John Ratzenberger, Wallace Shawn, Blake Clark, Jeff Bergman, Anna Vocino, Annie Potts, Bonnie Hunt, Melissa Villaseñor, John Hopkins, Kristen Schaal, Ernie Hudson, Keanu Reeves, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, and Alan Cumming. Andrew Stanton directs.

Toy Story 5 opens in theaters on June 19.