Top photo caption: Jessie, Buzz Lightyear, and Woody appear in the movie “Toy Story 5.” OSV News photo/Disney/Pixar
By John Mulderig OSV News
NEW YORK OSV News – A deservedly much-loved animated series gets a touching extension with the arrival of “Toy Story 5” (Disney). The franchise’s hallmark combination of sunny humor and emotional intelligence continues to make for outstanding entertainment, this time under the direction of co-writer Andrew Stanton.
Overall, the latest proceedings are suitably innocent. But the introduction of a new character, an electronic toilet training device called Smarty Pants (voice of Conan O’Brien), unleashes a small torrent of potty puns in the script — penned with Kenna Harris — that some parents may not appreciate.
The happy partnership between young toy owner Bonnie (voice of Scarlett Spears) and her ensemble of playthings, led by cowgirl doll Jessie (voice of Joan Cusack), is suddenly threatened when Bonnie’s parents give her Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a frog-shaped tablet computer. Like all the kids around her, Bonnie becomes completely absorbed by the gadget.
Feeling neglected, Jessie and her friends begin to worry about their future. A conflict also arises between the established group and the newcomer over how best to help Bonnie, a shy, somewhat quirky kid, acquire friends.
Amid the crisis, Jessie calls on cowboy doll Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) — who has been out and about aiding traditional toys youngsters have abandoned in favor of gizmos like Lilypad — to help win Bonnie back and find her some pals. This leads to a reunion between Woody and his rival-turned-friend, astronaut action figure Buzz Lightyear (voice of Tim Allen).
Buzz, meanwhile, who has long carried a torch for Jessie, is trying to summon up the courage to propose to her.
Moments of pathos add depth to the ongoing exploits as both Bonnie and Jessie undergo experiences of isolation and betrayal that leave them questioning their self-worth. The screenplay also encourages youthful viewers to distinguish between true and false friendship. Thus, along with the smiles and laughs it inspires, the movie also helps to mold positive values.
The film contains some childish scatological humor. The OSV News classification is A-I – general patronage. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.
John Mulderig is media reviewer for OSV News. Follow him on X @JohnMulderig1.