The beloved Pixar film Monsters, Inc., released in 2001, was initially developed under the working title "Hidden City," according to Jay Ward, Creative Director for Franchise at Pixar. Ward shared this detail in a recent interview with the Daily Mail, discussing the film's creation, which began in 1998.
Ward explained that all Pixar films start with working titles, which are often kept secret before the official name is decided. The "Hidden City" reference can be seen in the film itself, as director Pete Docter incorporated a coffee shop with that name into a background scene where main characters Sulley and Mike are walking to work.
Ward's comments coincide with the promotion of the Mundo Pixar Experience, an exhibition currently running in London. The exhibition immerses visitors in 14 Pixar universes, featuring over 25 sculptures and recreated scenes from films such as Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, Finding Nemo, and Inside Out. Ward expressed his satisfaction with the exhibition, noting the positive reactions from attendees exploring environments like the Toy Story room.
When asked about the possibility of a "Toy Story 6," following the recent success of "Toy Story 5," Ward stated that it was too soon to confirm. He acknowledged the audience's enthusiasm for the characters but indicated that discussions for future installments typically begin after a new film has been released. He noted the positive reception of "Toy Story 5," describing its message as poignant and surprising to viewers.
"Toy Story 5" reportedly achieved the highest opening weekend at the 2026 box office, earning $160 million domestically. The film also set a new record for the largest start in the Disney and Pixar franchise's history. Globally, it opened to $152 million, bringing its total to $312 million against a $250 million budget. The movie reunited actors Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, with a plot that reportedly explores the impact of technology on Bonnie's toys, centering on a new tablet named Lilypad. Taylor Swift contributed a new song to the film's soundtrack. Critics have responded positively, with some awarding it five stars and praising Pixar's emotional storytelling.