Tom Hanks, the voice of Woody, has delivered a stark warning about the impact of screen addiction on children, saying the new Toy Story film “exposes the terror” of a generation glued to devices. Speaking at the premiere of Toy Story 5, Hanks told reporters the movie tackles the “frightening reality” of how digital distractions are replacing real-world play and human connection. “We’re showing kids glued to screens, not to each other,” Hanks said.
“It’s a horror story dressed up as a cartoon.” The film, set for release next month, follows the toys as they struggle to compete for attention against a family’s smartphones and tablets. Hanks called it a “wake-up call” for parents, urging them to put down their own devices.
“The toys are fighting for relevance, just like childhood itself,” he added. Critics have praised the film’s unflinching look at modern parenting, with one calling it “the most important Pixar movie yet.” But some have questioned whether a family franchise is the right platform for such a dark message.
Hanks dismissed the criticism. “If it makes one family talk about screen time, it’s worth it,” he said. The actor, a father of four, admitted he struggles with the issue at home.
“It’s hard. But we owe it to our kids to try.” Toy Story 5 hits cinemas on June 21.
