Pixar Sequels Ranked: ‘Toy Story 5’ Joins the Ranks of Highly Profitable, Critically Varied Follow-ups

Pixar is strategically leaning on sequels to maintain financial stability, a move underscored by the recent success of ‘Toy Story 5,’ which has grossed $1.1 billion and is now available on Disney+.

This approach follows the box office triumphs of ‘Incredibles 2’ ($1.3 billion in 2018) and ‘Toy Story 4’ ($1.07 billion in 2019). The studio’s more recent original features, including ‘Turning Red’ and ‘Soul,’ saw success, while films like ‘Elemental’ and ‘Elio’ faced challenges, signaling a potential shift away from a consistent creative peak.

‘Inside Out 2’ also proved a major financial success in 2024, earning $1.7 billion. Pixar’s future strategy appears to involve a careful mix of sequels like ‘Incredibles 3’ and ‘Coco 2,’ alongside new original stories such as ‘Gatto’ and ‘Ghost Market.’ This dual approach aims to keep the company profitable while preserving its reputation for artistic innovation and the potential to launch new franchises.

However, the quality of Pixar’s sequels has varied. A ranking of these follow-up films places ‘Cars 2’ at the bottom, described as an objectively bad movie and a series of poor decisions. It grossed $560 million in 2011, largely due to parents seeking a distraction for their children.

‘Monsters University,’ technically a prequel, is noted for being a competent but unmemorable entry that lacks the narrative depth of its predecessor. ‘Cars 3’ is recognized for presenting a more compelling narrative than previous ‘Cars’ installments, focusing on Lightning McQueen’s struggle with obsolescence, though its most memorable aspect remains a demolition derby sequence.

‘Toy Story 5’ is positioned as a film that shifts focus to Jessie, offering a welcome departure from the central Buzz and Woody dynamic. Despite a screenplay described as rickety, it addresses modern themes like screen time and provides hearty laughs.

‘Finding Dory’ centers on the popular supporting character from ‘Finding Nemo,’ exploring her quest to find her parents. While touching, it doesn't quite capture the same magic as the original film.

‘Toy Story 4’ is praised for introducing Forky, a character symbolizing the unique nature of toys, and for exploring themes of self-worth and complex character arcs. The film is noted for its robust thematic ambition.

‘Inside Out 2’ is lauded for its exploration of adolescent development, contrasting Joy with the new emotion of Anxiety. While sharing some similarities with the first film, it offers vigorous comedy and profound observations.

‘Toy Story 3’ is highlighted for its emotional manipulation, effectively making audiences confront themes of aging and time, while balancing tear-jerking moments with significant humor.

‘Incredibles 2’ is described as pure, delightful entertainment that balances thematic weight with action. It incorporates a political allegory about acceptance and features strong, visually dexterous action sequences.

Topping the list is ‘Toy Story 2,’ celebrated for its ability to evoke strong emotions and for its commentary on the collector’s market. It is noted for exemplifying Pixar's desire to create high-art entertainment that transcends mere commerce, urging viewers not to emulate the negative traits of characters like Stinky Pete.