Toy Story 5 director Andrew Stanton thinks Buzz and Woody have seen each other since they parted ways in Toy Story 4: "I hope you don't spend that long waiting till you see your old friend again"

This statement highlights a significant shift in the narrative direction of the Toy Story franchise, emphasizing the importance of relationships and character development. It's a departure from the more plot-driven focus of previous films, underscoring the emotional connections between toys. This renewed emphasis on character relationships may influence the storytelling approach in future animated films, as studios seek to create more engaging and relatable storylines.

The revelation also raises questions about how this maintained connection will be explored in Toy Story 5, potentially setting the stage for a more nuanced portrayal of friendships and their significance in the lives of toys. It will be interesting to see how the film addresses this aspect, and whether it will have a lasting impact on the franchise's overall tone and direction.