Toy Story 5 Review: Screen Age Challenges Traditional Play
Toy Story 5, releasing in Australian cinemas on 18 June, tackles the obsolescence of toys in the digital age. The film follows Bonnie, a child who struggles to connect with peers addicted to screens, represented by the smart device Lilypad. After her parents buy a Lilypad, Bonnie becomes zombie-like and forgets her toys. Cowgirl Jessie leads Woody, Buzz, and the gang to intervene, emphasizing real friendship over online connections. The film presents a balanced view: screens are not evil but should be tempered with traditional play. A subplot involves digital Buzz Lightyear toys washing ashore. The review praises the film's nuanced antagonist and focus on human connection.
Key facts
- Toy Story 5 releases in Australian cinemas on 18 June.
- The film introduces a smart device antagonist named Lilypad.
- Bonnie is the kid protagonist who becomes addicted to Lilypad.
- Jessie is the newly-crowned protagonist of the film.
- The film explores the question: in the age of screens, are toys becoming obsolete?
- A subplot involves digital Buzz Lightyear toys washing up on a shore.
- The review is written by Leah J. Williams.
- The film is produced by Disney.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Disney
- ScreenHub
- ArtsHub
Locations
- Australia