Review: Toy Story 5: A Timely, Must-Watch Wake-Up Call for the Screen-Time Generation!

Toy Story 5 brings in an important topic in this latest franchise movie: how children are now more surrounded by technology instead of playing outdoors, with toys, and making friends in a natural way. The film centres on Bonnie’s growing fixation on Lilypad, her frog-shaped smart tablet. This shift happens because children in her surroundings neighbours’ kids, cousins, and others she meets tease her for still playing with toys. They say she’s behind because she doesn’t play with technology, which pushes her to get Lilypad and spend more time on screens.

The narrative shifts beautifully into the playroom where Jessie handles her new responsibilities as leader alongside Buzz, her steadfast deputy. They watch Bonnie drift away into her digital world, feeling their ultimate purpose slip through their hands. However, the film finds its true emotional anchor when Jessie gets separated from the group and crosses paths with Blaze, a confident and sweet girl from the neighborhood. Recognizing that Blaze has exactly the kind of vibrant, real-world energy that can pull Bonnie out of her digital bubble, Jessie orchestrates a plan to bring the two girls together, realizing that a true human friend is the ultimate remedy for screen addiction.

Woody is not part of the main cast at the beginning; he comes in later, returning from Toy Story 4 when the situation becomes critical. His return feels deeply emotional and grounded he isn’t coming back to lead the group or take over, but simply as an old friend who understands what it’s like to feel left behind by a growing child, offering the weary toys the reassurance and perspective they desperately need.

Pixar doesn’t paint technology as evil. The film asks how children balance digital life with real human connection. The toys’ journey shows that play is about connection, creativity, and the natural way kids learn to be friends.

Overall, this movie is a must-watch for children!

Rating: ***1/2

By Team CineBuster