Tom Hanks Says ‘Toy Story 5’ Addresses Modern Challenge of Screen Addiction

Tom Hanks believes the latest installment of ‘Toy Story’ delves into a pressing issue many families face today: children’s increasing reliance on screens and digital devices.

The actor, reprising his role as Woody in ‘Toy Story 5’, shared insights about the film’s narrative during a discussion with BBC journalist David Sillito. This time, the toys are not up against a conventional antagonist. Instead, they find themselves vying for the attention of the children they love against the backdrop of technology.

In ‘Toy Story 5’, Bonnie has matured and becomes captivated by a new tablet-like device named Lilypad. This frog-shaped gadget quickly becomes her favorite companion, leaving Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the other toys struggling to maintain their place in her life. The plot examines how technology alters children’s interactions and the way they spend their time.

Hanks noted that the film’s theme resonated with the cast, as they have all observed similar dynamics in real life. He pointed out that many young people today frequently shift their focus between the physical world and their smartphones.

“We’ve all met that disinterest,” Hanks remarked. “They look down at their phone, look up, look down, look up.”

He believes this phenomenon signifies a broader generational shift. “This is a generational thing,” he explained to the BBC. “One generation has this thing that defines them technologically in society, and they pour everything into it.”

One particular scene in the film left a lasting impression on him. Hanks described a moment depicting a city at night illuminated by the glow of screens from children’s bedrooms. He admitted that this imagery struck him deeply.

“It does strike terror into the heart,” he said.

Tim Allen, who reprises his role as Buzz Lightyear, shared his own observations regarding technology and younger audiences. He recounted taking his teenage daughter to the movies and noticing her struggle to remain engaged for the entire duration of the film.

Allen explained that many young viewers are now accustomed to consuming very brief content online. “They are so used to seven-second movies on Instagram,” he noted.

According to Allen, his daughter quickly predicted the plot of the movie they were watching and lost interest. “I get it! He’s going to be the villain and they’re going to do this,” she told him.

While Allen found humor in the situation, he acknowledged that her assessment wasn’t entirely off. He believes younger generations have become accustomed to narratives unfolding much more rapidly than in previous eras.

Simultaneously, Allen remarked that every generation has faced similar anxieties regarding new forms of entertainment. He recalled his own parents urging him to turn off his music when rock and roll emerged.

“As soon as I said ‘put that phone down,’ I remember my parents going ‘turn the music off,’” Allen reflected.

Joan Cusack, returning as Jessie, feels the story will resonate strongly with parents. She mentioned that the topic of screen time is a common discussion among families, making the film’s themes particularly relevant today.

‘Toy Story 5’ is produced by Pixar Animation Studios and continues one of Disney’s most beloved franchises. Alongside returning stars Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack, the film introduces new cast members, including Greta Lee as Lilypad.

The film is set to hit theaters on June 19, bringing Woody, Buzz, and their friends back for a new adventure that navigates the challenges of growing up in a digital age.

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