The Fifth Toy Story Film Teaser Sets Woody and Buzz Against a Tablet Computer

It has been 30 years after the first Toy Story film was released, establishing Pixar as a major film company and bringing audiences to beloved characters like Woody (Tom Hanks) and the space ranger (the voice talent), who are now household names.

In 2026, the next chapter is set to arrive. The initial preview for Toy Story 5 landed recently, providing a glimpse into the plot but leaving fans curious how it will resolve the ending of Toy Story 4.

Bonnie's New Toy: A Digital Device Frightens the Toys

The preview shows Bonnie — who inherited the toy collection when he grew up — getting a brand new toy, one that alarms the familiar toy group. Bonnie gets her first tablet computer, and she is thrilled about it.

Presumably, the frog-shaped tablet will animate just like the rest of her playthings. However, the toys appear to consider it as a threat coming to replace them, which it probably is.

The Cowboy's Comeback: Mysteries from Toy Story 4

An element the teaser doesn't touch on is what Woody is returned with his friends in the child's bedroom. The end of Toy Story 4 depicted him embark on a new adventure with the shepherdess (the actress), journeying with a carnival and assisting prize toys find good homes.

Surely, the filmmakers will explain the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the film. Witnessing him appear in the familiar setting without warning is somewhat puzzling, however. It also raises questions whether his partner will have returned with him. And what about Duke Caboom (Keanu Reeves)?

Connections from the Last Installment

At the very least, some elements are carrying over from the prior film. The final act Woody did before departing for his fresh path was pass his sheriff badge to Jessie (Joan Cusack), entrusting her in charge of Bonnie's bedroom. The clip displays the badge pinned to her shirt.

Hopefully she is still the driving force among the group.

Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters on June 19, 2026.

Daniel Armstrong
Daniel Armstrong

Eleanor Ashford is a literary scholar and editor specializing in modernist poetry and digital humanities.