⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4

It’s hard to believe that the first Toy Story film was released back in 1995. More than three decades later, and after many of us thought the franchise had already reached its conclusion on more than one occasion, we now find ourselves with Toy Story 5.

Running at a respectable 1 hour and 42 minutes, it offers good value for a family film. Production values are as high as ever, and while the storytelling follows a fairly predictable path, it remains entertaining and accessible for younger audiences. There were plenty of screenings available this opening weekend, so we simply turned up when it suited us.

There’s little doubt that children will love this film, and there were certainly plenty in the audience enjoying it. If you have young children, it isn’t essential to have seen the previous entries to follow what’s going on. Adults will find plenty to enjoy too, although this is not among the strongest of the films in the series.

That’s not to say it lacks positives. Jessie arguably gets the most screen time (likely why many young girls in the audience), while Woody, Buzz and several of the original toys take more of a supporting role. As with most recent instalments, a number of new toys are introduced. Story-wise, some elements feel familiar, with the toys once again finding themselves separated and trying to make their way back. This time, however, the narrative places greater emphasis on friendship and explores the advantages and disadvantages of technology increasingly replacing traditional toys and playtime.

The animation is superb, the voice acting is excellent, and everything looks fantastic on the big screen. And one final tip: stay until the very end for an extra post-credit scene.

After the events of Toy Story 4, Bonnie is getting older and becomes increasingly obsessed with a new tablet-like device called Lilypad. As screens and technology begin replacing traditional toys in her life, Jessie, Buzz, Woody and the rest of the gang face their biggest challenge yet: staying relevant in a world where kids would rather look at a screen than play with toys.  

Online synopsis 

Film Rating

Music

4 out of 5 (mainly instrumental) a Taylor Swift track during the end credits

Story/plot

3.5 out of 5

Acting/Animation

5 out of 5

Overall

4 out of 5

Certification: PG
Running time: 102 minutes
Screening type: 2D