Toy Story 5: First reactions to the new Pixar film – here's what critics are saying in reviews
The verdict of Woody and Buzz Lightyear's latest big-screen adventure is clear
The first reactions to "Toy Story 5" have been released – and the reviews so far are likely to delight fans of the film series. After the Pixar film was screened, movie critics are raving about it. We'll have to wait a few more days for detailed reviews of Woody and Buzz Lightyear's new cinematic adventure, as there's an embargo in place until June 16, according to The Hollywood Reporter. However, initial impressions were already shared on social media following the film's premiere in Los Angeles – and they're extremely positive.
The fifth film in the popular series featuring Cowboy Woody, Astronaut Buzz Lightyear, and all the other toy heroes is considered another highlight of the decades-long franchise. Critics agree on one thing above all else: With "Toy Story 5," director Andrew Stanton has created an incredibly moving sequel. In addition, the humor is repeatedly highlighted, and the animated adventure is even described as "masterful" and "perfect."
Here's what the critics are saying about Toy Story 5
The following selection of social media reactions shows just how enthusiastic the critics are. Daniel Baptista from The Movie Podcast writes, among other things:
"Pixar's #ToyStory5 is a GENERATION-DEFINING experience and exactly the story we need right now. @Pixar once again delivers a meaningful, moving, and masterful must-see movie."
Drew Taylor from The Wrap is enthusiastic about the film series in general and the new installment in particular:
"#ToyStory5 is an absolute homerun and further proof that this is the greatest animated film franchise ever — surprising, heartfelt, dynamic and so, so fun. May these movies never cease."
Jazz Tangcay of Variety also has nothing but praise. On the contrary! The critic gives the film 10 out of 10 points and says:
"Toy Story 5 is magical and pure perfection. It is a fantastic entry into the franchise. [...] It's emotional, funny, genuinely warm, and perfect in every way."
The HoloFiles post states:
"TOY STORY 5 is sweet, clever, funny, heartwarming, and delivers everything you could possibly want from a Toy Story movie. [...] One of the best movies we've seen all year."
The post by DiscussingFilm author Andrew J. Salazar makes it clear that the new Pixar film doesn't seem to lose any of its impact even after multiple viewings:
"I have seen TOY STORY 5 twice now and somehow cried harder the second time."
Film critic Scott Menzel is no less enthusiastic:
"Toy Story 5 is a wonderfully heartfelt return to form for Pixar Animation Studios and a reminder of why the Toy Story franchise remains one of the greatest film series ever made."
I Knew It, I Knew You: Taylor Swift contributes song to Toy Story 5
One aspect that Menzel also enthusiastically highlights is the film's song "I Knew It, I Knew You" by Taylor Swift. The pop superstar's recently released track was inspired by "Toy Story 5" cowgirl Jessie. During the film's premiere in Los Angeles, Swift sat down at the piano and performed the song.
But that wasn't all. Later, Randy Newman joined her on stage and performed a song with Swift that fans of the film series know all too well: "You've Got a Friend in Me," which was featured in the first "Toy Story" film from 1995.
Competition for Woody, Buzz, and Co.
"Toy Story" laid the foundation for the triumph of computer-animated feature films. It was also the first Pixar film to receive a sequel. As early as 1999, "Toy Story 2" was released as the first of several sequels. In the latest, fifth installment of the series, the toy heroes are confronted with technological progress. One day, it appears in the children's room in the form of a frog-like tablet named Lilypad – and promptly becomes little Bonnie's new favorite toy. We'll soon find out in theaters how Woody, Buzz, and the gang handle this and whether the new film lives up to the rave reviews it has received so far: "Toy Story 5" opens on June 19, 2026.
