A young artist from Blackpool, eight-year-old Tommy, is set to see his creative work showcased across the nation as his painting has been chosen to appear before all UK screenings of the highly anticipated Disney Pixar film, Toy Story 5. Tommy's vibrant design secured him victory in a competition to create the official British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) Black Card, which precedes the film's main presentation.
Tommy's achievement was celebrated at a preview screening in London, where he walked the red carpet and met some of the film's biggest stars. He received personal congratulations from Hollywood veteran Tom Hanks, the voice of the beloved cowboy doll Woody, and Tim Allen, who brings the iconic Buzz Lightyear to life. Both actors signed Tommy's framed winning design, with Hanks reportedly asking, "Hey little kid! What's this?" before signing.
The winning artwork features the feet of several characters from the film, including a new addition, Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee. Tommy explained his artistic choices, stating, "I just wanted to make something colourful, plus feet are easier to draw than faces!" His design, created using acrylic paints and a mix of brushes and sponges for texture, was praised by Joan Cusack, who voices Jessie the cowgirl, as "amazing!"
This year's competition, which saw over 1,000 entries from children across the UK, marks a significant moment for Tommy, who was also a finalist in last year's event. The BBFC highlighted the film's theme of 'toys vs. tech' as particularly relevant for young audiences navigating an increasingly digital world. Tommy's signature will also appear on the official BBFC Black Card, alongside BBFC president Natasha Kaplinsky and chief executive David Austin.
As part of his prize, Tommy and his family enjoyed a winner's day experience in London, which included a behind-the-scenes tour of the BBFC. During the tour, he gained insight into how films are classified from a BBFC Compliance Officer, offering a unique glimpse into the regulatory process for cinematic releases in the UK. The film, Toy Story 5, is expected to delve into the challenges faced by Woody, Buzz, and Jessie in a world where "toys are for play, but tech is for everything."