Some movies entertain us, others become part of our entire lives.
Today marks the arrival of Toy Story 5, and whether you grew up watching Woody and Buzz in the ’90s or discovered them years later, it’s hard not to feel a little emotional seeing these characters return to the big screen once again.
For many of us, the Toy Story franchise wasn’t just another animated film. It was a constant companion throughout different stages of our lives. We watched these characters grow, change, say goodbye, and somehow always find their way back to each other.
This time around, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang face a challenge unlike any they’ve encountered before. The film pits classic toys against modern technology in the form of “Lilypad,” a smart tablet that begins taking Bonnie’s attention. It’s a story that feels especially relevant in today’s world, where screens often compete with imagination and traditional play.
Directed by Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton, who helped shape the original Toy Story and later co-wrote Toy Story 4, the newest installment aims to blend nostalgia with a fresh story for a new generation. Of course, it wouldn’t feel like Toy Story without the voices we’ve come to know and love over the years.
Tom Hanks returns as Woody, Tim Allen reprises his role as Buzz Lightyear, and Joan Cusack is back as Jessie. Fan favorites including Annie Potts as Bo Peep, Wallace Shawn as Rex, and John Ratzenberger as Hamm also return to complete the beloved cast. Looking back, it’s impossible to overstate the impact Toy Story has had on the entertainment industry.
When the original film arrived in 1995, it completely changed the landscape of animation. Not only did it revolutionize what animated movies could look like, but it also helped usher in an era where major Hollywood stars became regular voices in animated films.
The franchise went on to earn critical acclaim, Academy Awards, and more than $3.2 billion at the global box office. Both Toy Story 3 and Toy Story 4 took home the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, further cementing the series as one of the most beloved franchises in movie history.
But beyond the awards and box office numbers, what makes Toy Story special is something much simpler. It’s the memories! It’s sitting on the living room floor as a kid, quoting Woody or crying when Andy says goodbye.
It’s only years later that you realize these movies were never really just for kids. No matter how old I get, seeing Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the gang together again will always feel a little magical. And that’s a legacy very few franchises can claim!
To infinity… and beyond.
XO Diva D 