In Toy Story (2024), the beloved toys—Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of Bonnie’s toy box—are adjusting to a new phase in their lives. Since the events of Toy Story 4, Woody and Bo Peep have found a new life together, helping other toys and guiding them toward new owners, while Buzz continues to take on the role of the leader of Bonnie’s toys. However, Bonnie is growing older and starting to outgrow some of her toys, leading to a sense of uncertainty and change within the group.

The film kicks off when Bonnie’s family moves to a new town, and she makes the difficult decision to donate a portion of her toys to a local children’s hospital. Woody and Buzz, ever the protectors, are initially anxious about what will happen to their friends as they face new homes and new lives. But they soon discover that some of the toys don’t have a happy ending in their new environment. They must come together to rescue their friends, facing off against new, unfamiliar toys and unexpected obstacles.

As they travel across the city, the toys encounter a new character: a young, adventurous robot toy named “Chip,” who has a past that is far from conventional. Chip was created with an advanced AI that makes him question what it means to be a toy. Throughout the adventure, Chip helps Woody, Buzz, and the others explore deeper philosophical themes about belonging, identity, and purpose.

Meanwhile, Woody, struggling with his decision to leave Bonnie’s home, finds himself questioning his role in the world of toys. He wonders if his choice to stay with Bo Peep was the right one, or if he is leaving behind something important. Buzz, ever loyal, tries to keep the group together, but even he faces moments of doubt as the toys’ lives continue to change around them.

As the film unfolds, the toys learn that growing up is part of their journey and that their bond—whether they’re with children or each other—is what truly matters. The emotional heart of the story comes as Woody comes to terms with his new life, and the group realizes that while they may no longer be the primary toys in a child’s life, they still have a deep purpose.

In the final act, Woody and Bo Peep return to the children’s hospital to find a way to help Chip and some of the other discarded toys find new homes with children who still need them. In doing so, they affirm their mission as toys—to bring joy, comfort, and companionship to whoever needs them, no matter where they are.

The movie concludes with a moving message about the circle of life and toys’ lasting impact on their owners, no matter how much time passes. Woody and Buzz reaffirm their friendship and decide that their place, wherever it may be, is with those who need them most. The toys may have changed, but their purpose has not.