Details from IMDB:
Toy Story 5
Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they’re introduced to electronics, a new threat to playtime.
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Initial Thoughts:
I’ve seen every Toy Story movie in theatres, so there was never any doubt about going to this, only just a question of how long we would wait. We thought 2 weeks would be enough, but it was still almost sold out. I suppose it’s not surprising, as it was number 1 at the box office last week, and I suspect it could be again. I have enjoyed every one of these, some more than others, of course, so we went today, Sunday, to see it.
Main Points:
As usual, I won’t do plot details, both to avoid spoilers and because I don’t usually talk about it unless I really loved (or hated) the movie. Toy Story is like a warm, fuzzy blanket, and it was nice to get wrapped up in it again. Excellent animation, great voice work and a good story. There were some lovely, touching moments, and I teared up a little once. This, like part 4, really is about the passage of time and how we all change as we grow up. More importantly, however, it’s about the importance of connecting with people in real life, not just online. How we need human contact and how everyone, including adults, needs to make time for play. I have been enjoying role-playing games, for example, for over 37 years now. This movie is very focused on Jessie, and I think that’s great; we need more movies with women as the main characters, and it gives the character depth. We learn more of her history, and it makes her even more likable.
I have heard critics say that the whole Buzz/Jessie romance is just a distraction and not needed. While it’s not a major part of the movie, I enjoyed it, and it does play a part at the end. Speaking of, be sure to stay, not just for the new Taylor Swift song (which I quite liked even though I’m not a country music fan) but also for a fun post-credits scene. I’m a sucker for Tom Hanks, and as long as he continues to voice Woody, I’m there. Also, I really liked the light they shine on online bullying and how kids are forced to grow up too early; these are two major problems in society, and parents need to watch out for/help their kids deal with them from a young age. I also really liked how they showed kids spend too much time on their tablets/phones; the world is meant to be explored, and children should go to sleepovers, spend time outside and do all the other things besides being glued to a screen.
Final Thoughts:
We saw this in 3D, but there are only a couple of scenes where it made any difference; I would say save a few bucks and just see a regular showing. I quite enjoyed this movie and would give it 8 out of 10. I was a socially awkward child myself, and I really felt for Bonnie. I was lucky to have good friends, but there were lots of times I felt lonely or bullied, as she did. For the first time in a while, I can say, take your kids and go see this movie, ages 8+ (depending on your child, of course). There is plenty here for adults to enjoy, and while this is a solid ending for the series, I also would like one more entry if they can come up with more good ideas.