Buzz holds a happy Woody while "flying" in Toy Story Disney-Pixar

'Toy Story' returning to theaters for 30th anniversary

Originally posted on Nerdist | By Michael Walsh | Last updated Jul 18, 2025 12:08 PM ET

Thirty years ago, Pixar launched a new era of cinema with a single movie. Toy Story, the first-ever fully computer-animated feature film, was a transformative smash hit. It influenced generations (and counting) of filmmakers and studios. It also spawned what might be the most critically acclaimed, most impeccable franchise ever. There’s simply not a bad movie—or special—in the bunch. Now the film that began it all is getting ready to celebrate its 30th anniversary, so Disney and Pixar are throwing the best kind of party. Toy Story is returning to theaters this fall.

Pixar’s iconic film, the one that turned the studio into a household name, will be back on the big screen later this year. It will screen in theaters on September 12. That’s two months ahead of its 30th anniversary. Toy Story debuted on November 22, 1995, a fact that doesn’t seem possible for those of us who saw it in theaters originally.

After three decades of rewatches, we don’t exactly need anyone to convince us to see one of the best animated movies ever. Toy Story doesn’t need any hype. But we’re not complaining Disney and Pixar did just that. They followed this news with an incredibly moving video reminding fans they don’t have to wait for September. They can stream all four films on Disney+ right now.

The 30th anniversary is the impetus behind this theatrical re-release. But we’re willing to wager Disney and Pixar don’t mind that this celebration will also serve as a great promotion for Toy Story 5. The series’ fifth installment will arrive in theaters in the summer of 2026 on June 19.

Will it be as good as Toy Story 1, 2, 3, and 4? After 30 years with the franchise that changed animation forever, we would never bet against it.

This article first appeared on Nerdist and was syndicated with permission.

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