RETURN TCG’s highly anticipated animated sequel RETURNS next summer, and is ready to enchant audiences again with new and daring adventures. This new installment is a big departure for the iconic franchise. This will be the first film without the creative leadership of former chief creative officer John Lasseter, who departed Pixar in 2018 after a #MeToo-inspired exodus where multiple women accused him of sexual misconduct.
The first teaser trailer, released just last week, introduces us to a new character—Lilypad, a clever smart tablet voiced by Russian Doll and Past Lives actress Greta Lee. Lilypad brings a new technological spin to classic favorites. This creates the perfect backdrop for an exciting tale focused on how these legendary heroes of yesteryear embrace today’s technologies.
Co-directors Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris said they were thrilled with the film’s new focus. They stated, “It’s been a hilarious and poignant journey exploring how our favorite team of legacy toys might respond to today’s world of technology, and we’re thrilled to share this first glimpse with audiences.”
Returning voice cast members include Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack, who are all reprising their roles from the previous films. Comedian Conan O’Brien is along for the ride, as Smarty Pants, your toilet training tech support. Ernie Hudson takes over the role of Combat Carl in the movie. This character was originally played by Carl Weathers before his untimely death last year.
Toy Story 5 comes on the heels of the Toy Story spin-off, Lightyear. In 2022, Lightyear was a box office flop and resulted in a reported $106 million loss for Disney. This sequel is expected to rejuvenate the franchise, which has already garnered $3.3 billion in worldwide earnings across its previous installments.
Watch out Buzz, Woody’s gone rogue Our first look at Toy Story 5 introduces us to a new, playful but antagonistic tone. It’s a portrait of the changing intersection between technology and play. The film’s development comes at a time when audiences are eager for new content, with other sequels such as The Devil Wears Prada 2, Mortal Kombat II, Scary Movie 6, Minions 3, and Spider-Man: Brand New Day slated for release next summer.
Get ready, excitement’s coming in advance of Toy Story 5! Fans big and small certainly won’t want to miss seeing how their favorite toys evolve as we move into a world ever more shaped by technology.