Toy Story 5 premiered in local markets on June 18, 2026, and opened nationwide across the US on June 19, 2026 [1, 2]. The film features voices from Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Keanu Reeves, Craig Robinson, and Bad Bunny among others [2]. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the story centers on the competition between modern technology products and traditional toys, highlighting a tech tablet character named Lilypad who vies to control Bonnie's playtime [1, 2].
Tom Hanks and Tim Allen spoke about concerns over growing technology addiction in interviews ahead of the release. Hanks noted that strict screen time rules are in place for his grandchildren, saying that "孙子们成长于数码时代，但家中一直设有严格规范，限制娱乐性质的荧幕使用时间。他也认为，如今卧室与客厅常被电子产品发出的蓝光占据，对人们的身心并非好事" [1]. Allen admitted to once being hooked on short videos of fake car crash footage, saying "他曾沉迷短视频，不断滑看假车祸影片" [1].
The film received a 92% "fresh" critics score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 73 reviews shortly after the review embargo lifted on June 16, 2026 [2]. Critics praised the movie's sweetness, emotional depth, and respect for the franchise's legacy more than three decades after the original release. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter wrote, "Toy Story 5 comes an astonishing 31 years after the original and does the enduring franchise proud. The movie’s captivating sweetness is hard to resist" [2]. IndieWire's David Ehrlich said, "For all of its teachable wisdom, this movie knows that life is never sweeter than it is during the moments, and years, when we simply can’t accept that love is also made out of plastic" [2]. Moira MacDonald of Seattle Times added, "What makes the movie sing, as with its predecessors, is its sweetness. Five movies in, it’s still poignant to think about toys having a relationship with their children, loving them and trying to keep them safe in an ever-changing world" [2].
The film's large ensemble cast and its themes reflect a changing dynamic in children's entertainment between digital devices and classic toys. The character Lilypad represents the rise of technology trying to take charge, creating tension for the traditional toy characters in the story [2].
With its official release on June 19, Toy Story 5 is now playing nationwide in theaters across the US [2].
