Toy Story 5's Secret AI Use Isn't What You Think
A VFX supervisor for Toy Story 5 explains how Pixar experimented with AI, deciding to use it as a tool to help artists, not replace them in filmmaking.
Key Takeaways
- Pixar experimented with AI for Toy Story 5 but found current technology did not meet its filmmaking standards.
- The studio's strategy is to use AI as a tool to assist artists with preparatory tasks, not to replace their creative input.
- This cautious approach prioritizes protecting Pixar's unique animation style and keeping the artist at the center of the creative process.
Toy Story 5 is dominating the box office and earning record-high audience scores. According to Forbes, the film is on track for a massive opening weekend, proving the franchise still has a huge draw. But behind the on-screen magic is a careful strategy for navigating new technology.
In a recent interview, the film's VFX supervisor revealed how Pixar is approaching artificial intelligence. The studio's findings show a cautious, artist-focused path forward.
Speaking with TechRadar, VFX Supervisor Thomas Jordan explained that Pixar has experimented with AI. However, the team quickly learned that the technology was not ready for their level of filmmaking.
Instead of replacing human creativity, the studio is now exploring AI from a different angle. The goal is to improve the artist's experience.
Jordan's philosophy is to use AI for preparatory steps. This could involve setting up a scene more quickly, allowing animators to get to the actual creative work faster.
He emphasized that this approach protects the core of Pixar's identity. The studio's unique, caricatured animation style is its "secret sauce," and that is something they never want to change.
This measured strategy is part of a broader industry trend where creative teams are adopting AI tools for marketing visuals and video while maintaining artistic control.
AI was not the only technological exploration for the film. The TechRadar interview noted that the team also developed a new rigging system to animate a realistic-looking horse named Daffodil.
Another innovation involved a new tool to animate the long, curly hair of a human character named Blaze. This was created to solve a long-standing technical challenge and improve on-screen representation.
For new toy characters with screens, animators used a special tool described as a "virtual pencil." This allowed them to sketch temporary expressions on the toys' blank screens to guide the final animation.
The film's main antagonist is a tablet-like device, which The Verge noted provides a thoughtful look at the pros and cons of screen time.
Ultimately, Pixar's work on Toy Story 5 highlights a clear commitment to innovation. The studio is embracing new tools, including AI, but only in ways that support and enhance the creativity of its artists.
References:
- Forbes Innovation, ‘Toy Story 5’ Sets A Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score Record. Accessed on Jun 20, 2026
- TechRadar, The big TechRadar Entertainment interview: Toy Story 5 VFX supervisor Thomas Jordan talks new toy designs, Easter eggs, Bonnie and Blaze, and Pixar's experiments with AI. Accessed on Jun 20, 2026
- The Verge, Toy Story has the right take on tech. Accessed on Jun 20, 2026
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The Mixstackrr Team is a group of writers and editors with more than 10 years of combined experience in SEO and consumer tech. We test devices, dig through settings, and turn everyday tech problems into clear, step-by-step guides anyone can follow.
