Over the past decade, Disney has transformed many of its most beloved animated classics into live-action blockbusters. Films such as Beauty and the Beast (2017) and The Lion King (2019) became major box-office successes, earning $1.266 billion and $1.662 billion worldwide, respectively. But not every Disney live-action remake has enjoyed the same level of success.
In more recent years, titles such as Mulan (2020) and Snow White (2025) struggled commercially, while audience reactions to several of Disney's reimaginings have been mixed. Despite that, the studio continues to revisit its animated library, with Moana (2026) next in line.
But one Disney property that may prove especially difficult to adapt is Toy Story.
The iconic Pixar franchise returns to theaters on June 19 with Toy Story 5, the fifth installment in the long-running series that began in 1995.
This latest adventure reunites Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Rex, Slinky, Mr. Potato Head, and the rest of the gang as they face the growing influence of technology. Watch the trailer below:
Related:Â ‘Toy Story 5' Stars Make a Surprise Appearance at Disney California Adventure
Tom Hanks and Tim Allen Weigh In
During the press tour for Toy Story 5, stars Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, who voice Woody and Buzz throughout the film series, were asked whether Disney could ever adapt the original Toy Story into a live-action movie. Speaking to Jake's Takes, both actors appeared highly skeptical.
Allen pointed to Pixar's 2022 spinoff Lightyear, which attempted to present Buzz as a more realistic human character. Discussing the challenge of translating the toy into live action, he explained: “They did that version [of] Lightyear where it looked like a human form, but it just didn't translate well.” He continued: “He'd have to get out of the suit, and he's got clothes on and Buzz's hair. I don't know how you’d ever do that.”
The actor did not reprise the role for Lightyear, with Chris Evans instead voicing the film's version of Buzz.
Hanks also struggled to imagine how a live-action Toy Story could work. While discussing the possibility of using animatronics rather than CG, he concluded: “It's a conundrum. It cannot be done.”
Unlike many of Disney's animated classics, Toy Story presents unique challenges for a live-action adaptation. The central characters are toys, and much of the franchise's appeal comes from Pixar's stylized animation and expressive character designs.
You can watch the full Jake's Takes interview with Tom Hanks and Tim Allen below:
A Franchise Unlike Any Other
Since debuting in 1995, the series has expanded well beyond its theatrical releases. In addition to multiple sequels, Toy Story has inspired short films, television specials, video games, Disney Parks attractions, and the 2022 spinoff Lightyear.
Now, with Toy Story 5 just days away from release, Pixar is once again proving that the franchise remains one of its most enduring properties. Whether or not Disney ever attempts a live-action remake, Woody and Buzz clearly aren't leaving the spotlight anytime soon.
Toy Story 5 opens exclusively in theaters on June 19, 2026.
Are you excited about the new film? Do you think a live-action Toy Story movie could work? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
