Exactly 30 anniversary after the first Toy Story movie debuted, establishing the animation giant as a major animation studio and introducing audiences to beloved characters like the cowboy doll (the actor) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), who are now famous worldwide.
In 2026, the next chapter is scheduled for release. The initial preview for Toy Story 5 appeared this week, offering a brief look into the plot but keeping fans wondering how it will address the ending of Toy Story 4.
The preview shows the young girl — who received the toy collection when he grew up — receiving a brand new plaything, one that terrifies Woody, Buzz, and the crew. Bonnie gets her first tablet computer, and she is thrilled about it.
Presumably, the frog-shaped tablet will come to life just like the rest of her playthings. However, the toys appear to consider it as a threat coming to replace them, which it likely will.
An element the teaser avoids is what the sheriff is back with his friends in Bonnie's room. The end of Toy Story 4 saw him embark on a fresh journey with the shepherdess (the actress), traveling with a carnival and assisting prize toys find good homes.
Surely, the filmmakers will explain the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the movie. Seeing him show up in the familiar setting unexpectedly is somewhat puzzling, however. It also makes us wonder whether his partner will have come back with Woody. And what about the stuntman toy (the star)?
At the very least, some aspects are carrying over from the prior film. The final act the cowboy did before departing for his fresh path was hand over his symbol of authority to the cowgirl (the voice actor), leaving her in charge of Bonnie's bedroom. The clip displays the badge pinned to her outfit.
Hopefully she is remains the driving force among the group.
Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters on the scheduled date.
A passionate comic book enthusiast and film critic with over a decade of experience in the superhero genre.
