Toy Story 5 Review: Jessie Finally Gets Her Moment

By Justin D Williams

Going into Toy Story 5, I wondered if another sequel was necessary. After Toy Story 3’s emotional goodbye and Toy Story 4’s ending for Woody, I feared this entry might feel redundant. What worked is the film’s new emotional focus through Jessie, giving the sequel purpose. The story works because it explores a modern idea: toys trying to matter in a world where technology is taking up more of a child’s attention. I liked that the movie does not simply say toys are good and screens are bad. Instead, it looks at how kids change, how childhood changes, and how the things we love can start to feel left behind.

Jessie is the movie’s heart. Her fear of being forgotten has always driven the franchise’s emotion, and Toy Story 5 completes that journey. I enjoyed seeing her step up—not just as the energetic cowgirl, but as someone who’s grown from pain and learned to lead.

What I liked most about Jessie’s story is that it feels earned. She matters not just to introduce a new lead, but because her past, fear, and loyalty all connect to the theme of change. This movie completes her arc and finally gives her the long-deserved spotlight.

The character work is strong overall, but Woody’s story felt forced. I love Woody, and Tom Hanks still excels, but after Toy Story 4, his return didn’t feel natural. Sometimes, it seemed the movie included him for nostalgia, despite Jessie’s stronger emotional arc.

Buzz fits well in a supporting role. He delivers humor, heart, and his trademark confusion but never overshadows Jessie. I liked that the movie lets him support the story, not carry it.

The voice acting stands out. Joan Cusack shines as Jessie, bringing emotion, humor, and strength. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen provide comfort as Woody and Buzz. The rest of the cast connects the movie to the franchise’s history. The animation is beautiful, as expected from Pixar, and I still appreciated the detail. The toys feel worn, touched, and loved, while the technology side feels smooth and polished. That contrast worked for me because it helped show the difference between physical play and digital distraction without overexplaining it.

The direction works best in quieter moments, letting emotion breathe. The adventure and comedy entertain, but Jessie’s reflective scenes are most striking and meaningful.

The music recaptures familiar Toy Story warmth without forcing emotion. The score supports Jessie’s journey and helps emotional beats land naturally.

Overall, Toy Story 5 isn’t perfect, and Woody’s role can feel forced. Yet Jessie’s story brings heart, purpose, and closure. The sequel works by giving Jessie the moment she deserves and providing a meaningful final chapter.

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