In an interview for Toy Story 5, stars Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Tom Hanks (Sheriff Woody), Greta Lee (Lilypad), and Joan Cusack (Jessie) discuss the film's radical message about technology's impact on childhood. The film, set for release on June 19, 2026, tackles how screens and social media have stolen children's playtime, urging parents to wise up.
Key Insights from the Cast
Tim Allen on Technology and Dopamine
Allen notes the film's accuracy regarding tech addiction: "Being on a tablet is not playing with a toy. It's playing with dopamine." He criticizes algorithm manipulation and fake news, applauding the movie for shining a light on these issues.
Tom Hanks on the Profound Moments
Hanks highlights a scene where Bonnie's feelings are hurt by texts on Lilypad, a supposed communal experience. He reflects, "No toy hurts your feelings if you are playing with it." He also discusses the film's deep emotional resonance, comparing it to the silent moment in Toy Story 3 when Andy's mother sees his empty room.
Greta Lee on Parenting and Screens
Lee, who voices Lilypad, shares her approach with her own children: setting clear boundaries on screen time, prioritizing outdoor activities like hiking and gardening, and accepting boredom. She says the film's message is that making friends is hard and children need parents' help.
Joan Cusack on Attention and Play
Cusack emphasizes that attentive parenting is crucial: "Otherwise you just let them have it because then you can do stuff." She adds that Buzz and Jessie's relationship is a good match.
Reflections on Toys and Childhood
The cast also answered reader questions. Hanks recalls making toys from rusty nails and wood, finding as much satisfaction as with store-bought toys. Allen remembers building model airplanes that became too valuable to play with. Lee had a scary Mother Goose toy that wouldn't stop talking at night.
On the film's impact on adults, Lee says it tackles the passage of time and losing loved toys. Allen calls it "honest art, like Dostoevsky." Hanks notes that children's films often first introduce grief, like losing a pet or toy.
Finally, Hanks advises on dealing with a snake in your boot: store boots with one leg inside the other, and if a snake is inside, throw the boot far away. Allen adds that most snakes don't want to bite, but scorpions are a real problem.
