‘Toy Story 5’ Breaks an Unfortunate Franchise Record as First Reviews Drop & Rotten Tomatoes Score is Revealed

Pixar’s latest adventure has officially arrived, and early reviews suggest that audiences are in for another emotional journey with Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the beloved toy gang.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, Toy Story 5 has debuted with a 94% critics score based on 94 reviews. While that is a strong rating by most standards, it is currently the lowest-rated movie in the Toy Story franchise. Even so, the film has received mostly positive reactions from critics, many of whom praised its emotional storytelling, humor, and focus on family.

Toy Story 5 is the fifth main installment in Pixar’s long-running animated series. The film is directed by Andrew Stanton, known for Pixar classics such as Finding Nemo and WALL-E. Stanton also co-wrote the screenplay with Kenna Harris.

Many familiar voices return for the new adventure. Tom Hanks reprises his role as Woody, while Tim Allen returns as Buzz Lightyear. Other returning cast members include Joan Cusack, Annie Potts, Bonnie Hunt, Tony Hale, Kristen Schaal, Keanu Reeves, and several more. The movie also introduces new cast members including Greta Lee, Conan O’Brien, Craig Robinson, Bad Bunny, Alan Cumming, and Ernie Hudson.

The film had its world premiere in Los Angeles on June 9 and is scheduled to be released in theaters across the United States on June 19.

Several critics have highlighted the movie’s emotional themes. Brandon Avery of Just My Opinion Reviews gave the film a score of 9 out of 10 and praised its ability to connect with viewers of all ages.

“Oh, how I love a great Toy Story movie. Toy Story 5 once again proves why this franchise endures, speaking to adults and children alike while hitting surprisingly emotional notes about family and parenting.”

Helen O’Hara from Empire Magazine also responded positively to the film, giving it four out of five stars.

“It’s funny and charming on a level with the first three films, even if it pulls a couple of punches. Pixar’s not just toying with these characters — they take play very seriously indeed.”

Some reviewers were especially happy to see more attention given to Jessie. Mike Manalo of Geeks of Color said the movie finally gives the character a chance to grow.

“It’s a worthy inclusion to this legendary franchise that finally does far more with Jessie, truly evolving her in a way that reminds us why this is one of the most human film series ever.”

Not every review was completely glowing. A few critics felt the story was not as essential as previous entries. Mike Massie from Gone With The Twins gave the film a 6 out of 10, writing:

“For the first time in the series, the premise doesn’t feel as cohesive, as indispensable.”

Despite some mixed opinions about the story, most reviews agree that Toy Story 5 succeeds in delivering the emotional moments that fans expect from the franchise. Critics have also noted themes involving family, identity, and the growing influence of technology on children.

With a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes, Toy Story 5 may rank slightly below its predecessors, but it still appears to be another successful chapter in one of Pixar’s most popular and beloved franchises.

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