Onward (2020) is a heartwarming animated fantasy film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Dan Scanlon, the film explores themes of family, loss, and the quest for self-discovery through an imaginative and emotionally resonant story.
Set in a suburban, modern-day fantasy world where mythical creatures like elves, unicorns, and trolls coexist but lead ordinary lives (no magic required), the story follows two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt. They live in a world where magic has long faded into the background, replaced by technology and convenience. On Ian’s 16th birthday, their mother gives them a gift left by their late father—a magical staff and a spell to bring him back for one day. However, the spell goes awry, and only their father’s lower half is brought back to life, setting the brothers off on an adventure to complete the spell before time runs out.
The film is a beautiful blend of Pixar’s signature humor, stunning animation, and emotional depth. At its core, Onward is about the bond between the brothers and their journey to rediscover the magic in their world, both literally and metaphorically. Ian, the more reserved and self-doubting of the two, has always longed for a connection with the father he never got to meet. Barley, on the other hand, is enthusiastic and passionate about ancient history and magic, determined to restore their father’s full presence, even if it means embarking on a wild, dangerous road trip filled with quirky encounters.
The themes of Onward are deeply personal, as the film reflects on how we deal with loss, the importance of family, and the idea that you don’t always need grand gestures to find the magic in your life. It’s a story about finding the courage to be yourself and realizing that the people you love are always with you, even if they are not physically present.
The film features gorgeous animation, with a richly detailed world full of imaginative creatures, and a great voice cast. It also has a fantastic score by Mychael Danna and Jeff Danna, which complements the emotional beats of the film.
Onward was generally well-received for its emotional depth, creative premise, and heartwarming message. It offers a wonderful balance of lighthearted moments and poignant scenes, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults. It’s a great example of Pixar’s ability to tackle deep, universal themes in a way that’s accessible and entertaining.
If you enjoy Pixar films like Coco or Inside Out, with their emotional storytelling and heartfelt themes, Onward is definitely worth watching. It’s a magical, touching journey that reminds us to appreciate the family we have and the magic of our everyday lives.
