First Look: Toy Story 5 Takes On a Tech‑Obsessed World

© Walt Disney Pictures
Pixar unveiled a fresh glimpse of Toy Story 5 at the Annecy International Animation Festival on June 13. Directed by Andrew Stanton (with co-director McKenna Harris), the film returns on June 19, 2026, promising a poignant clash between classic toys and modern screens.
Plot Hook: Toys Vs Tech
The new trailer and concept art frame Bonnie, now age 8, absorbed in her “Lillypad” tablet. Meanwhile, Woody, Jessie, Buzz, and the crew grapple with being overlooked. Pete Docter summed it up: “toy meets tech,” reflecting the growing challenge traditional play faces in a digital era.

Buzz Left on a Deserted Island
In a striking opening sequence, multiple Buzz Lightyears awaken on a deserted island and attempt to form a makeshift society, complete with a campfire and a makeshift boat. The scene, shown at Annecy, evokes the original film’s wonder and reinvigorates classic Buzz‐centric storytelling.
Returning Cast, Exciting New Voices
Series voices return: Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz), and Joan Cusack (Jessie). Debuting voices include Ernie Hudson as Combat Carl, replacing the late Carl Weathers, and Conan O’Brien as a new character called Smarty Pants.
Jessie Gets the Spotlight
While Woody and Buzz reconnect, this sequel will focus more centrally on Jessie, reaffirming her importance in the franchise. Tim Allen teased that the film “could be a very interesting way to reunite” the group while shining new light on Jessie’s journey.

Themes That Resonate
- Cultural relevance: Exploring how screen-first childhood reshapes toys’ roles and identities.
- Nostalgia & innovation: The Buzz‐on‐an‐island scene nods to the 1995 classic while forging new storytelling paths.
- Trust in creators: With visionary director Andrew Stanton at the helm (creator of Finding Nemo, A Bug’s Life) and McKenna Harris co-directing, fans expect emotional depth and boundary‑pushing creativity.
In an age where screens dominate kids’ attention, Toy Story 5 is timely and reflective. It’s likely to spark conversations about play, technology, and connection, while delivering Pixar’s signature blend of humor, heart, and imagination, fueled by renewed cast chemistry and a contemporary premise.
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