'Toy Story 4' premiere date, spoilers, cast news: Tom Hanks confirms film's 2018 release; Sequel to take on a romantic direction

"Toy Story 4" is scheduled to hit cinemas on June 15, 2018. Disney/Pixar/Toy Story Official Facebook Page

Following the release of "Toy Story 3," fans were satisfied with the way Pixar and Disney decided to close the franchise. And everyone thought that was the end of it. But news outlets have been booming recently with the news of "Toy Story 4," especially after veteran actor Tom Hanks confirmed the film's release.

Hanks recently went on "The Graham Norton Show" and talked about the latest toy-themed fantasy film. The Academy Award winner shared his experience of voicing Woody, explaining that by the end of the day, his diaphragm is so tired that he needs to put an ice pack on his chest. The actor also said the film will be released in 2018, further supporting reports of its June 2018 premiere.

"Toy Story 4" will reportedly be directed by John Lasseter, who has been responsible for many Disney animated hits like "A Bug's Life," "Cars" and the first two "Toy Story" films. The director has said that the fourth installation to the franchise will revolve around Woody and Bo Peep's relationship, paving the way for a romantic comedy.

The couple's mutual attraction has been featured in previous "Toy Story" films, but Bo Peep (Annie Potts) was noticeably absent for the most part of "Toy Story 3."

The franchise has previously touched upon the romantic aspect, but has never fully highlighted it, opting for a more platonic tone. Fans are excited to see how the film will take on such a different direction.

Rashida Jones ("Parks and Recreation," "The Office") has teamed up with Will McCormack once again for the film's script. The two previously worked together on "Celeste and Jesse Forever," which the two also starred in. Pixar's Galyn Susman is on board as the film's producer.

Tim Allen and Joan Cusack are set to reprise their roles as Buzz Lightyear and Jessie, respectively. Patricia Arquette ("CSI: Cyber") has also reportedly joined the cast as a hippie mom.

But fans of the film franchise will have to wait because "Toy Story 4" is rumored to hit cinemas on June 15, 2018.

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