-- The long-anticipated "Toy Story 5" was released Friday, marking the latest installment in the beloved animated franchise and putting a renewed focus on fan-favorite character Jessie.

ABC7 Eyewitness News anchor Karina Nova spoke with Pixar filmmaker and storyboard artist Kenna Harris, who discussed the creative direction behind the film and why Jessie became central to the story.

"Jesse was always the focal point of the movie since the first draft. Andrew Stanton was asked, 'If you direct a Toy Story movie, what would that entail?' And he was always interested in having Jesse be the sheriff of the room. It feels so refreshing to hear her point of view. We thought there was emotion still left to explore for her. He also felt there was a conflict between devices and toys," Harris said.