Tom Hanks has said the forthcoming Toy Story 5 will address the issue of screen addiction among children, drawing praise from UK children’s charities. Speaking at a press conference in Los Angeles, Hanks, who voices the character Woody in the animated franchise, described the film’s narrative as a reflection of modern parenting challenges.
“The story looks at how screens are pulling families apart,” Hanks said. “Woody and Buzz are trying to remind us all that real play matters. It’s about connection, not just convenience.”
The fifth instalment of the series, produced by Pixar and Disney, is scheduled for release in 2025. Early plot details suggest the toys grapple with the rise of digital entertainment and the decline of traditional imaginative play. Hanks, 68, said the film was not anti-technology but sought to start a conversation.
UK children’s charities have welcomed the film’s focus. The Children’s Society said it was “encouraging to see mainstream media recognise the risks of excessive screen time”. The charity’s chief executive, Mark Russell, added that many families were struggling to set boundaries. “A film like this can help parents and children talk about a difficult topic in a gentle way.”
The NSPCC noted that screen addiction was a growing concern. A spokesperson said: “We see cases daily where children’s mental health is affected by too much time online. Toy Story 5 has the potential to highlight this issue to a global audience.”
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said it hoped the film would prompt more research into the effects of screens on young children. Dr Max Davie, a spokesperson, said: “We welcome any effort to encourage active play and face-to-face interaction.”
Hanks said the film’s writers had researched the subject thoroughly. “They spoke to child psychologists, teachers, and parents. This isn’t just a cartoon. It’s a cultural commentary.”
The actor also acknowledged the franchise’s responsibility. “Toy Story is more than a series of films. It’s part of a generation’s childhood. If we can use that to make people think, we should.”
Early reactions from Disney and Pixar have been cautious but optimistic. A company statement said: “We believe Toy Story 5 will entertain while sparking important discussions about family life in the digital age.”
Critics have questioned whether a major Hollywood franchise can effectively address a complex public health issue without being didactic. However, Hanks argued that storytelling was the most powerful tool. “You don’t lecture. You show. You let the audience discover the lesson themselves.”
Screen addiction is not yet classified as a disorder in the UK, but the NHS has reported rising numbers of children referred for gaming and social media dependency. The government has consulted on proposals to limit screen time for under-18s.
For now, Toy Story 5 has become an unlikely focus of public health discourse. Hanks’s endorsement may lend weight to the message. But the film’s true impact will be measured in living rooms and playgrounds, as children put down their tablets and pick up their toys.
