Summary
Former Pixar directing animator Catherine Hicks addresses the outdated look of theToy Story 5announcement video. More information about the upcoming sequel slated for a summer 2026 release was revealed whileScreen Rantwas in attendance at theD23 Entertainment Showcase. This included an announcement video forToy Story 5’s releasefeaturing one of the franchise’s three-eyed aliens grabbed by a claw, along with Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie running forward without any dialogue.
On X/Twitter,Hicksexplained thattheToy Story 5announcement video looks old because it does not feature any new animation. Check out her post below:

Hicks shared that she animated the claw and the alien in the video over a decade ago at Pixar. She also provided insight into the challenges that Pixar faces when working on animating upcoming films while also having to develop promotional material for expositions like D23 and San Diego Comic-Con, and that there is likely no new animation to show yet forToy Story 5.
Toy Story 5 Still Has Potential Despite Its Lackluster Video Announcement
It Has A Strong Premise, And The Franchise Always Delivers
Toy Story 5’s video announcement is disappointing, as it has nothing new to show in terms of animation or storytelling, and does not feature anydialogue from Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), and Jessie (Joan Cusack). Despite this,Toy Story 5still has potential because of the story details and concept art teased at D23, along with the proven track record of Pixar and the franchise. The new threat inToy Story 5will be technology, with concept art showing Bonnie captivated by her tablet’s glowing screen while her unnoticed toys sadly look on.
This conflict appeared earlier in the franchise duringToy Story That Time Forgotwhen Bonnie tossed her toys aside to play video games with a friend.

This is a timely conflict for theToy Storyfranchise to explore given the ever-present role of technologyand the positive and negative impacts it can have on children and their imaginations. It is a challenge that affects both children and adults every day and is perfect for the universal appeal Pixar brings to its storytelling, regardless of age. WhatToy Story 5has to say on this subject could even help audiences be more reflective about their use of daily technology.
Toy Story 5 Must Give These 2 Characters Bigger Roles To Avoid A Pixar Sequel Problem
The upcoming Toy Story movie needs to take steps to prevent Pixar from falling into a trap, and it all comes down to two sparingly-used characters.
EveryToy Storyfilm has been exceptional, and the same can be said for the majority ofPixar’s other moviesas well. It is difficult to imagine that the animation and story will not meet the usual standards once the film is finished, especially in the aftermath of the studio’s record-breaking success withInside Out 2.Toy Story 5’s timely premise and the experience that its cast and creators have all bode well for the sequel despite the uninspired announcement video.
Toy Story 5
Cast
Toy Story 5 follows Buzz, Woody, Jessie, and the rest of the gang as they confront a new challenge to playtime posed by advanced technology. Set to release in 2026, this installment continues the beloved Toy Story series with its familiar cast facing modern dilemmas.