The wait is over for the fifth installment of Toy Story, which has finally arrived after seven years. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film follows Jessie, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the toy gang as they navigate a world where technology is increasingly encroaching on children's playtime.
The story revolves around Bonnie, who is struggling to connect with her peers as she grows older. Her toys, however, are determined to hold on to their place in her life, and the film taps into the anxiety shared by parents across the globe about the impact of screens on children's imagination and outdoor play.
While the film has its moments of slow pace and thin storytelling, the central idea is strong enough to carry it through the rough patches. The animation is stunning, and the film understands what has kept audiences returning for three decades: an emotional truth that resonates with children and adults alike.