Tom Hanks has said the latest Toy Story film highlights the 'terror' of children's screen addiction, as the toys compete with a new tablet for their owners' attention.
The new movie, the fifth in the Pixar series, sees Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang facing a fresh challenge: a handheld device that draws children away from traditional play. Hanks, who voices Woody, described the plot as reflecting a real-world anxiety among parents.
“Tom Hanks says Toy Story 5 highlights parental fears over children's screen addiction as toys compete with a tablet for attention.”
Speaking about the film, Hanks said it 'shows the terror of children's screen addiction'. The storyline revolves around the toys trying to win back the affection of Bonnie, their owner, who becomes obsessed with the tablet. The film is expected to resonate with families across the UK, where concerns about screen time have grown in recent years.
In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, parents have increasingly raised worries about the amount of time children spend on devices. While no specific UK data is mentioned by Hanks, the film's theme taps into a broader cultural debate about technology and childhood.
'The terror is real,' Hanks told reporters. 'These toys are fighting for their lives – and for the imagination of a child.' The actor's comments have drawn attention to the issue, though no official bodies have yet commented on the film.
The release date for Toy Story 5 in UK cinemas has not been confirmed, but it is expected to arrive in 2026. Disney and Pixar have not announced further details.
What This Means For You UK parents may see the film as a reflection of their own experiences with children and screen time. Tom Hanks' remarks highlight a growing concern about digital habits, though no specific advice or statistics are offered. Families watching Toy Story 5 might find it a conversation starter about balancing entertainment with imaginative play.