Toy Story 5 needs to make a controversial change if it’s going to work

Buzz Lightyear voice actor Tim Allen has shared exciting details about the plot of Toy Story 5, but the upcoming Disney Pixar movie will need to make a change if it’s going to work – one that will no doubt be controversial for long-time fans. 

When Toy Story 3 ended with Andy passing his beloved toys on to Bonnie, many believed the story had come full circle. It was the perfect farewell – emotional, nostalgic, and complete, finalizing one of the best animated trilogies ever made. 

But then, nearly a decade later, we got Toy Story 4. Despite the skepticism, it was surprisingly well-received, earning praise for the emotional stakes raised by Woody’s decision to separate from Buzz. 

In many ways, the story was about growing beyond that original purpose and embracing a new identity. And this is exactly what Toy Story 5 needs to do if the franchise is to continue in a meaningful way. 

Toy Story 5 needs to move away from Woody and Buzz

Disney

Yes, I know – Toy Story would be nothing without its favorite pull-string cowboy and space ranger. But their story has been well told and has reached its natural conclusion. Woody and Buzz have grown up just like Andy has, and dragging them back to lead another adventure is like asking Frodo to take the Ring back to Mordor… again.

That doesn’t mean they can’t appear at all. A clever cameo, a heartfelt reunion, or even an Obi-Wan-style mentor role would all work well. But the emotional weight of the next chapter should be carried by a new cast of toys.

Pixar has already proven it can create compelling characters beyond the original gang. Forky was a chaotic, charming highlight of Toy Story 4. Ducky and Bunny, voiced by Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, were hilarious and fresh. 

There’s potential here to focus on Bonnie’s toys or to introduce a new kid entirely – someone who interacts with their manufactured mates in a completely different way. 

Recapturing Toy Story’s magic

Disney

For better or worse, we’re living in an age where studios are afraid to bank on new franchises. The nostalgia factor gets butts in seats, there’s no denying that. But what made the first Toy Story such a phenomenon in 1995 wasn’t because it clung on to old ideas – it was original and fresh. 

I still remember the magic of sitting in the cinema and seeing these toys brought to life (and then positioning my own toys to see if I could catch them in the act). This sort of reaction is still a possibility with the fifth entry. 

Although I would love to see more from Woody and Buzz, these movies are for kids, and they need something new to connect with. 

What does play even look like in a post-iPad world? That’s an interesting question worth exploring – and it’s one Toy Story 5 might be ready to ask. 

In a recent interview with WIVB, Allen hinted that the upcoming movie will shift focus, saying, “I can tell you that it’s a lot about Jessie. Tom [Hanks] and I do – Woody and I – do realign. And there’s an unbelievable opening scene with Buzz Lightyears. I can give you that, but I can’t give you much more.”

So, while the old gang may make a comeback, it sounds like Pixar is finally ready to head to infinity and beyond. And honestly? That’s not a betrayal of the originals – it’s the most Toy Story thing they could do.

Toy Story 5 is set to land in cinemas on June 19, 2026. Until then, read about why 2024 was the year of the animated movie, the Toy Story 5 plot hole, and check out the TV shows and movies coming to Disney+ this month, and