The newest villain in 'Toy Story' isn't a toy — it's screen time
Business Insider
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In the highly anticipated *Toy Story 5* trailer, the beloved toys face their most formidable competitor yet: a screen. The film introduces Lilypad, a frog-themed tablet that captures Bonnie's attention, leaving her traditional toys sidelined. This marks a shift from past conflicts in the franchise, where plastic was the main threat, to now confronting the growing influence of technology on childhood play.
The trailer highlights a tense standoff between Jessie and Lilypad, showcasing the struggle between analog play and digital distraction. As Bonnie becomes absorbed in scrolling and tapping, her toys watch helplessly, with Woody even questioning if tech has surpassed toys as "everything." This narrative taps into real-world concerns about screen time's impact on child development, including delays in social skills and attention span issues.
The film reflects broader societal debates about technology's role in childhood. Governments are considering bans on social media for minors under 16, aligning with the *Toy Story* franchise's latest commentary on tech's dominance over play. This storyline resonates with parents and experts grappling with screen time's effects.
From a business perspective, *Toy Story 5* leverages its massive franchise appeal to address relevant cultural issues. The film, part of a $1 billion global box office success for *Toy Story 4*, positions itself as both entertainment and commentary on modern parenting challenges. By addressing screen time concerns, the movie aligns with current societal conversations while maintaining its beloved characters and charm.
Ultimately, *Toy Story 5* captures the tension between nostalgic play and digital innovation, offering a timely reflection on childhood in today's tech
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/20/2026