‘Toy Story 5’ first reactions call Pixar sequel emotional and one of the franchise’s best

Critics highlighted the sequel’s humour and emotional depth as Woody reunites with old friends again

After its first screenings for members of the press, Toy Story 5 has earned overwhelmingly positive reactions, with many critics describing the latest Pixar adventure as one of the studio’s strongest sequels in years.

The fifth instalment in the beloved franchise reunites Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang for a new story centred largely around Jessie. The film arrives three decades after the original Toy Story changed animation history and early reactions suggest the series still has plenty of life left.

Film critic Scott Menzel praised the sequel on social media, writing that the film stands alongside the first three entries. He described the movie as a successful mixture of humour, emotion and classic Pixar storytelling.

Daniel Baptista from The Movie Podcast also shared enthusiastic reactions, calling the experience generation defining and praising the story for delivering a message audiences need today. He singled out Conan O’Brien’s new character Smarty Pants as one of the film’s highlights and noted that Jessie finally receives the spotlight she deserves.

Variety senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay also praised the film after attending the screening. She described Toy Story 5 as magical and emotionally satisfying, adding that the film introduced strong new characters while balancing laughter and heartfelt moments.

Collider editor Meredith Loftus echoed similar sentiments. She said the movie explores the conflict between technology and traditional toys through Jessie and described the story as profound and moving. According to Loftus, the sequel belongs alongside Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3 in terms of quality.

The new film sees Woody reuniting with Buzz and the gang after the events of Toy Story 4. While Woody had previously left his friends behind to help abandoned toys alongside Bo Peep, circumstances bring everyone back together when a tablet like device called Lilypad enters Bonnie’s life.

Director Andrew Stanton, who previously directed Finding Nemo and WALL E, takes charge of a Toy Story film for the first time. Although he contributed to earlier entries as a writer and story artist, this marks his debut directing a feature in the franchise.

Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack return to voice Woody, Buzz and Jessie respectively. New cast members include Greta Lee and Conan O’Brien.