"The biggest advancement in this series is that we directly address what kind of reality children are living in. Through this, we wanted to expand children's imagination in a completely different way."
McKenna Harris, who directed Disney·Pixar's animated film "Toy Story 5," which returns seven years after the previous installment, made these remarks at a video press conference with Korean media on Monday, saying, "We addressed the changed play environment of children in the digital age and incorporated a new direction." She explained, "We reflected the reality that children now spend more time with iPads, various devices, and screens than with toys," adding, "Bonnie also encounters a smart device called 'LilyPad,' which shakes her relationship with her existing toys."
She added, "Play is an instinct that all humans possess," and continued, "I think curiosity and imagination are also innate. All humans have a desire to connect with others, and at that point, connection is the keyword."
Director McKenna hinted that the protagonist of this series is Jessie. "I thought that bringing Jessie in as the protagonist could show a new kind of energy," she said. "It would be great if viewers watch how Jessie leads the toys in a different way than Woody."
The press conference was also attended by Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, and Greta Lee, who provided the voices. Tom Hanks, who voices Woody, explained, "Woody has gone through various experiences as the leader of the toy world for a long time," adding, "In this work, he is portrayed as a helper supporting Jessie and the most experienced veteran toy." He also said, "Having been with Woody for nearly 30 years, I felt a greater sense of responsibility with this return."
Newly joining the cast, Greta Lee voices the smart tablet LilyPad. "Although it's a machine character, I tried to focus on human emotions and put a soul into it," she confessed. "Experiencing how much technology occupies children's lives made me personally reflect a great deal." The film opens on the 17th.
