(Pictured: Co-directors Andrew Stanton and Kenna Harris, Lori Alan, and producer Jessica Choi)

Lori: I have to remind myself to get off my phone at night so I can sleep better. Especially with all these great things going on with Toy Story, I’m like, “Lori, put your phone down!” It makes me realize that face-to-face contact is what’s most important. 

What I love about the film’s message is that we’re not denying tech or devices. It’s so cute that the toys go find the older devices, like Smarty Pants and Snappy. That’s part of Pixar’s magic. The film acknowledges that technology is part of our lives while reminding us that human connection is what really matters.

The scenes that are so moving are when Jessie is really struggling. She needs a child, and she feels like she’s lost her purpose. In this crazy world, we need joy and community. We need to be there for one another. When she has that moment, [no spoilers — you’ll know which one], I can’t stop tearing up and having chills. It’s when she realizes, “That’s my purpose. I do belong,” and Bullseye is right there beside her.