[No Spoilers] I was really made to think by the much-talked-about Toy Story 5...
*This article does not contain any spoilers.
This is Unoshi.
I went to see "Toy Story 5".
There were funny scenes and moving scenes, but more than that, it was a "thought-provoking work".
I think it's a movie that will resonate with those who have watched the series as well as those who will watch it from now on.
A theme that is relevant precisely because of the progress of digitalization
What left the biggest impression on me this time was the theme of the film: "what it means to be a child in an era of advancing digitalization."
Nowadays, it's an era where not only adults but even small children in strollers touch smartphones and tablets. Precisely because this has become the norm, it made me rethink "what it means to play," "what it means to be a child," and "what it means to grow up."
"Toy Story" is a story about toys, but it is also a work that depicts human growth. I felt that it has a message that resonates precisely because of the modern age, and that it is content that touches not only children but also adults.
A story that can only be told because they are toys
In this work, toys find joy and a sense of purpose by being played with by humans.
However, as digitalization progresses, the way children play changes little by little. And, the owners grow up, and the day eventually comes when they no longer play with toys.
Even so, the toys never forget the "memories of being played with."
Watching them, I felt that the value of a memory might not be determined by the length of time spent together, but by how precious that time was.
A work that makes you want to cherish your belongings
The charm of the "Toy Story" series is that it depicts a world where toys have life and emotions.
In reality, objects do not have hearts. Even so, by viewing the story from the perspective of the toys, the way I look at the things I use casually every day changes a little.
What if the things I use had feelings?
What if they remembered the time we spent together forever?
When I imagine such things, I hesitate a little to treat things roughly or let go of them easily.
In reality, objects do not have life. But this work teaches us that the "heart to cherish things" is real.
The emotional impact that only long-time fans can experience
Of course, the appeal isn't just in its themes.
For those who have been watching the series since the first film, the history built up over time gives even casual scenes a special meaning.
Because these are characters we've grown up with for so long, the story itself was deeply moving.
I think this film will resonate most with the generation that grew up watching Toy Story as children.
Pay attention to the visual beauty as well
I was also amazed by the beauty of the visuals.
The texture of the toys, the lighting, and the intricate detail in the backgrounds were overwhelming; it was the kind of imagery that makes you think, 'That's Pixar for you.'
There is an impact that only a cinema screen can convey, and I believe the film is worth watching for the visuals alone.
To those who are going to watch it
If I could give one recommendation to those planning to see it, I would say please watch Toy Story 2 before heading to the theater.
Of course, watching 1 through 4 is best, but I felt that watching the second film in particular allows you to enjoy this one even more deeply.
Summary
Toy Story 5 is not just another sequel.
It was a film that made me think about many things, such as the message it conveys in an increasingly digital age, what it means to grow up, and how we relate to toys and objects.
I've avoided spoilers, but after finishing this movie, I think you'll be able to see the things around you and the memories you cherished as a child in a slightly different light.
Please experience the world of this film in a movie theater.
It was truly excellent.