There is a timeless discussion around the concept of “sequel fatigue” in film, but Toy Story seems to have defied the odds with its fifth installment. The film is “verified hot” by Rotten Tomatoes audiences.
Toy Story 5‘s Positive Reception
Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5, which premiered in theaters yesterday, June 19, is currently rated “Fresh” by critics and “Verified Hot” by audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. As of writing, Toy Story 5 has a 94% Tomatometer score based on 201 critic reviews. Its audience score is even higher, with a 95% Popcornmeter from more than 1,000 verified ratings.
That audience rating gives the film a Rotten Tomatoes’ “Verified Hot” distinction, a newer audience-focused badge awarded to theatrical films that reach a high verified audience score and meet the site’s eligibility requirements.
While a 94% critic score is excellent by any measure and enviable for most animated releases, the Toy Story franchise has historically enjoyed consistently higher critical reception.
The original Toy Story and Toy Story 2 both hold 100% Tomatometer scores. Toy Story 3 sits just shy of that at 98%, while Toy Story 4 sits at 97%.
Therefore, that technically makes Toy Story 5 the lowest-rated mainline installment of the series among critics, despite its overwhelmingly positive reviews.
The gap also highlights just how unusual the franchise’s critical track record has been. Even with its “franchise low” score, Toy Story 5 remains firmly in positive territory and is currently performing strongly with moviegoers.
“Toy Meets Tech”
Toy Story 5 brings back Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Forky, and the rest of Bonnie’s toys for a new story centered around technology’s impact on playtime.
The film introduces Lilypad, a tablet device voiced by Greta Lee, whose arrival challenges the toys’ place in Bonnie’s life. The sequel also features Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, Joan Cusack as Jessie, Tony Hale as Forky, and Conan O’Brien as Smarty Pants.
The film’s premise and the prospect of another Toy Story adventure were evidently enough to secure the film’s success with the highest-grossing preview period for a movie so far this year.
Though some reviews have questioned whether Pixar needed to return to the toy box again, the early audience response suggests many moviegoers are still happy to go along for another adventure.
Toy Story 5 merchandise collaborations include pet toys and costumes, Build-A-Bear sets, and Clove shoes. Pop sensation Taylor Swift also recorded a new song for the film, titled “I Knew It, I Knew You,” which has already broken streaming records.
Are you excited to see Toy Story 5? Let us know on social media!
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
