Toy Story 5 takes aim at creepy AI toys: ‘I’m always listening’

Since its debut in 1995, the Toy Story franchise has entertained audiences with heartwarming tales of friendship and adventure. Fast forward to today, and Pixar is set to release Toy Story 5, which introduces a new challenge for beloved characters like Buzz Lightyear and Woody. This time, they face a menacing AI device known as Lilypad. The trailer reveals Bonnie, the new owner of Andy’s toys, who becomes enchanted by the Lilypad tablet—a gift that arrives unexpectedly. As she immerses herself in the screen, her parents' warnings about limiting screen time go unheard. The Lilypad, cleverly dubbed Lily, is portrayed as a villainous influence, raising concerns about the effects of technology on children. In a tense moment, Jessie confronts the tablet regarding Bonnie's well-being, only to be met with an unsettling response: “I’m always listening,” Lily replies in a cold, robotic voice, echoing Jessie's heartfelt plea. This prompts Jessie to express her fears to Woody, stating, “Tech’s invaded our house. I’m losing Bonnie to this device,” to which Woody retorts, “Toys are for play, but tech is for everything.” The narrative of Toy Story 5 seems to hint at a deeper message about the perils of excessive screen time, potentially encouraging young viewers to reflect on their own tech habits. While it may be ambitious to think the film will significantly impact children’s behavior, it undoubtedly offers an engaging alternative to more mindless programming.