Tom Hanks, the voice of Woody in the Toy Story franchise, has issued a stark warning about the forthcoming fifth instalment, describing it as a reflection of the “terror” of children’s screen addiction. In an interview with the BBC, Hanks said the film delves into the “dark reality” of how digital devices have replaced traditional play, with toys struggling to compete for a child’s attention. “It’s not just a movie about toys coming to life,” Hanks said.
“It’s about what happens when those toys are ignored because a child is glued to a screen. That is a terror we all recognise.” The actor, a father of four, said the script had made him reflect on his own parenting.
“We all worry about it. The film holds a mirror up to society and it’s not a pretty picture.” Toy Story 5, due for release next year, is expected to explore themes of addiction, loneliness and the loss of imagination.
Critics have welcomed the shift to a more serious tone, but some parents’ groups have accused Disney of exploiting fears for profit. Hanks rejected that, insisting the film was a “wake-up call”. “We need to talk about this,” he said.
“Our kids are growing up in a world where a screen is more interesting than a friend. That is a tragedy.
