Let’s take a nostalgic look back at 10 of the incredible life lessons we’ve learned from Woody and friends! Toy Story reminds us that growing up is easier with friendship, loyalty and the courage to embrace change when we can. You grew up with them. You laughed with them. You probably cried with them. And now, with a new theatrical release this summer beginning June 19, it’s time to go “to infinity and beyond” with Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5!
And if you’re heading to the theatre anyway, make the visit a little sweeter with the Disney® Visa® Credit Card. Disney® Visa® Cardmembers can redeem Disney Rewards Dollars toward tickets for Disney, Disney and Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel movies at AMCTheatres.com ↗ or on the AMC Theatres Mobile App ↗!1
1. Woody teaches us the value of friendship
Woody shows us that anything is possible with help from your friends, and it’s important to remember there’s always room to make new ones! Throughout every change that came his way—new toys, new homes, new challenges—his one constant is the sense of connection he holds dear. Through Woody’s trials, Toy Story reminds us that friendships may be tested, may evolve and may even end, but that doesn’t make them any less meaningful!
If we take a cue from Woody, we can learn that being a good friend isn’t about holding on tightly. It’s about showing up fully, loving deeply and knowing when to accept that the beginning of someone else’s next chapter matters more than finding your place in it.
2. Buzz shows that identity changes over time
In the original Toy Story, Buzz Lightyear shows us that falling doesn’t mean failing! Buzz starts out believing he’s meant for something bigger than playtime. He thought his destiny was clear as a Space Ranger, but new possibilities opened up for him when he relaxed his standards of who he should be and instead focused on who he could become.
It can be a powerful thing to realize you don’t have to be everything you imagined to still be extraordinary. And even without wings, you can still find a way to fly! It might just not be the way you expected.
3. Jessie’s experience teaches us that we can let go of the past
Jessie’s story reminds us that we can carry our past without being defined by it. Rather than holding on to her past experiences like a weight, she instead holds them close as a reminder to find and choose joy in every possible moment.
We can learn from Jessie that healing doesn’t have to mean forgetting. Instead, it means letting yourself feel all the emotions and still deciding that you’re worthy of happiness on the other side of it.
4. Bullseye shows us that loyalty is found in actions, not words
Bullseye may not say a word, but we always know where he stands! He shows Woody his loyalty by always being there for his pal without hesitation, overthinking or any sign of holding back.
Isn’t that level of devotion refreshing? As we grow up, we often find that relationships with others can be fraught with complications. But Bullseye reminds us that loyalty can be simple: Be there. Be excited to be there. And never be afraid to run full speed toward those you care about!
5. Hamm teaches us to find humor in hard moments
Hamm is a character that truly says it like it is—and considering he’s a piggy bank, he’s usually right on the money! He always has a quip or a wisecrack to share, even in stressful moments. His sarcasm may make us laugh, but it’s also how he helps keep things grounded in the midst of chaos.
There’s value in that kind of perspective. Seeing the humor in every moment can help us find joy whenever possible. And from Hamm we can learn that sometimes the smartest voice in the room belongs to the one willing to say what everyone else is thinking (ideally with just the right amount of humor to make the point land)!
6. Slinky Dog shows how to support friends
Slinky Dog will stretch himself to the limits (literally!) to help a friend in need. Whether he’s bridging a gap or holding things together, he’s always willing to go the extra length for those he loves—no matter the distance.
What can we learn from this beloved pal? Showing up for others doesn’t always feel convenient. Sometimes it may mean meeting someone where they are. Real support isn’t about proximity, it’s about being willing to extend yourself when it matters most. And you should always keep an eye out so you don’t miss moments where others are reaching out to you in return!
7. Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head model the importance of adaptability
If anyone knows how to roll with the changes, it’s this spudly couple! Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head show us that it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in your pocket so you can adapt to any situation.
Life rarely stays on a fixed path, and neither do we. But that’s ok, because adaptability isn’t about having it all together. It’s about being willing to shift your mindset, reassemble and keep it moving. Sometimes, you’ll find that a little readjustment is all you need to make things right-side up again.
8. Rex teaches us that it’s ok to feel afraid sometimes
Courage isn’t about being fearless, it’s about showing up even when we’re scared. Nobody teaches us that more than Rex! This sweet and silly dinosaur is often fearful, but he always comes through with courage when it counts.
What can we learn from Rex and apply to our own lives? Growth can often look like tiny, uncertain steps forward. While it might not sound like a mighty roar, it’s enough to stand your ground, face your fears and not back down.
9. Bo Peep teaches us to embrace change
Bo Peep’s story is all about reinvention. Her evolution in Toy Story 4 teaches us that we can grow beyond what others (or even ourselves) may think is possible. Embracing change is how we grow!
We should all take Bo Peep’s journey as a reminder that it’s ok to change. Sometimes, we have to walk away from what’s familiar and forge a new path. It’s not about leaving it all behind: It’s about stepping into who you’re meant to become.
10. Forky reminds us we’re more than our doubts
Forky’s iconic repeated line of “I’m trash!” gets laughs, but it could be a mantra others unintentionally tell themselves. We’ve all felt a little less than or out of place at times. But the important thing to remember? Worth isn’t something you have to earn. Instead, it should be something you discover—even if you might need a little help from your pals along the way.
Forky spends his early days trying to end up where he thinks he belongs: in the garbage. But along the way, he learns to stop throwing himself away and stay open to new possibilities. From Forky, we can learn that not every breakthrough looks like unwavering confidence. Sometimes, it’s as simple as being present so you can keep your eyes open to what’s possible.
You’ve got the lessons. You’ve got that fuzzy sense of nostalgia. Now all that’s left? Movie night! Disney Visa Cardmembers, be sure to redeem your Disney Rewards Dollars toward movie tickets when purchased via AMCTheatres.com ↗ or on the AMC Theatres Mobile App ↗ for Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5, which hits theatres on June 19.1
