EMERYVILLE, California — Pixar Animation Studios is showcasing selections from its extensive internal archives, offering a look at the studio’s creative history as audiences anticipate the recent release of “Toy Story 5.”
The Pixar Living Archives, which document more than 40 years of the studio’s work, have been highlighted in recent features and public presentations ahead of and coinciding with the film’s theatrical debut on June 19. Archivists have shared early materials from the development of the original “Toy Story,” including sketches and artifacts that trace the evolution of characters like Woody and Buzz Lightyear.
A video series released earlier this year, “The Story Before Toy Story,” provides a behind-the-scenes look at Pixar’s founding in the 1980s, more than a decade before its first feature film. The archives house original artwork, maquettes, storyboards and technical innovations that laid the groundwork for computer-animated filmmaking.
“Toy Story 5,” directed by Andrew Stanton and co-directed by McKenna Harris, reunites the core voice cast including Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear. The film follows the toys as they face new challenges from modern technology, including a character named Lilypad. It opened in theaters on June 19 to positive early reviews.
The archives initiative reflects Pixar’s efforts to preserve its legacy while new productions continue. Public exhibitions, such as “The Science Behind Pixar” and immersive experiences like the Mundo Pixar tour in various cities, have also brought elements of the studio’s process to broader audiences in recent years.
Studio officials have noted the importance of maintaining these records for future generations of animators and filmmakers. Materials from across the franchise, from the groundbreaking 1995 original to subsequent installments, illustrate advancements in animation technology and storytelling.
“Toy Story 5” marks the latest chapter in a franchise that began more than 30 years ago. Early box office tracking had pointed to strong interest, with projections for a significant opening weekend.
As of Sunday, the archives continue to support internal work and occasional public insights. No specific details on new large-scale public archive exhibitions tied directly to the “Toy Story 5” release were announced. The film is playing in theaters nationwide.
