More than 30 years after Woody and Buzz first changed animation forever, Toy Story 5 proves there's still plenty of life left in Pixar's beloved franchise.

The latest installment reunites audiences with their favorite toys while introducing new challenges and ideas centered around the evolving relationship between children, playtime, and technology. While the film takes a little time to find its rhythm, the payoff is well worth the journey.

The first half feels somewhat disjointed as it introduces multiple storylines and several new concepts. At times, the narrative struggles to balance its various moving pieces, making the opening act feel less focused than previous entries in the series.

Fortunately, once those story threads begin to converge, Toy Story 5 really finds its footing.

As the emotional stakes grow, the story becomes more cohesive and engaging, delivering the heart, humor, and charm that have defined the franchise from the very beginning. The film explores themes of friendship, purpose, change, and growing up with the same sincerity that has made the Toy Story films resonate with audiences across generations.

One of the film's biggest strengths is the expanded role given to Jessie, who emerges as one of the film's emotional anchors. Her journey adds fresh perspective to the story while still honoring the legacy of the characters fans have loved for decades.

Visually, Pixar continues to impress with stunning animation and imaginative set pieces that remind audiences why the studio remains one of the industry's gold standards. The humor lands consistently, and the emotional moments hit exactly when they need to.

Is Toy Story 5 the strongest entry in the franchise? That's a debate fans will undoubtedly have. While it may not surpass every film in Pixar's beloved original trilogy, it confidently stands above Toy Story 4 and proves there are still meaningful stories left to tell with these characters.

Longtime fans will especially appreciate the film's callbacks to previous adventures, making it worthwhile to revisit the earlier movies beforehand for a refresher. Those connections add an extra layer of emotional resonance that rewards audiences who have grown up alongside Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang.

By the time the credits roll, Toy Story 5 delivers a satisfying and heartfelt adventure that earns its place in the franchise's legacy. And if you're planning to see it, consider this your warning: bring your tissues. The film's emotional moments hit hard, and yes, this reviewer may have shed a tear or two.

Entertainment Affair Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)

Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 opens exclusively in theaters on June 19.