Pixar’s upcoming Toy Story 5 tackles the growing issue of children’s screen time, depicting Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Bonnie’s other toys competing for attention with a tablet named Lilypad. As Bonnie becomes increasingly attached to technology, the film explores how excessive screen use can affect friendships, imagination, and childhood development.
Christian reviewers have responded positively to the movie’s central message. Writing for Focus on the Family’s Plugged In, Emily Tsiao praised the film’s emphasis on balance between technology and traditional play. She noted that Bonnie initially uses the tablet to connect with other children but later struggles with social interactions and experiences bullying through a group chat.
Actor Tim Allen, the voice of Buzz Lightyear, said he was impressed by Pixar’s decision to address children’s relationship with technology, calling it “courageous to re-encourage kids to play.”
Daniel Blackaby of The Collision agreed with the film’s message that digital technology should not replace imaginative play, though he questioned whether some story elements might unintentionally suggest that traditional play is outdated. Both reviewers also noted some toilet humor and mild content concerns for families.
