Movie Review: Onward (2020)
- Joao Nsita
- Jan 16
- 5 min read
Introduction
Onward, released in 2020 by Disney and Pixar, takes audiences on a magical yet deeply personal adventure that blends fantasy elements with heartfelt storytelling. Directed by Dan Scanlon and featuring the voices of Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Octavia Spencer, the film explores themes of family, loss, and self-discovery through the journey of two elf brothers seeking a final moment with their late father. With its mix of humor, action, and emotional resonance, Onward offers a touching narrative that is both entertaining and profound.
Plot Summary
Set in a suburban fantasy world where magic has faded over time, Onward follows Ian and Barley Lightfoot (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt), two elf brothers who receive a wizard's staff and a spell as a gift from their late father. The spell has the power to bring their father back for one day. However, when the spell goes awry, it only partially resurrects him—leaving just his legs.
Determined to complete the spell before time runs out, the brothers embark on a quest to find a magical gem that can fully restore their father. Along the way, they encounter a variety of fantastical creatures, from ferocious pixies to a fiery manticore (voiced by Octavia Spencer), while navigating their own sibling dynamics and personal growth. As the clock ticks down, the journey reveals the true meaning of family, love, and courage.
Themes and Storytelling
At its heart, Onward is a story about the bond between siblings and the importance of cherishing the connections we have. The film poignantly explores themes of grief and healing, portraying the longing to reconnect with lost loved ones in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. Ian’s journey of self-discovery, as he learns to embrace his own strengths and appreciate his older brother’s sacrifices, is beautifully woven into the narrative.
Dan Scanlon, who drew inspiration from his own experience of losing his father at a young age, infuses the story with sincerity and emotional depth. The fantasy setting, while whimsical and entertaining, serves as a backdrop for the deeply human emotions that drive the plot.
Performances
Tom Holland and Chris Pratt bring remarkable chemistry to their roles as Ian and Barley Lightfoot. Holland captures Ian’s shy and introspective nature, while Pratt infuses Barley with humor and boundless enthusiasm, creating a perfect balance between the two characters. Julia Louis-Dreyfus shines as the brothers’ determined mother, Laurel, adding warmth and humor to the story. Octavia Spencer steals scenes as the manticore, delivering a blend of fierce energy and comedic timing.
The voice performances elevate the emotional stakes, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs feel genuine and impactful. The dynamic between Ian and Barley is especially compelling, as it mirrors the complexities of real sibling relationships.
Visuals and Animation
As expected from Pixar, the animation in Onward is stunning. The film creates a vibrant fantasy world filled with unique and imaginative creatures, from dragons used as house pets to centaur police officers. The attention to detail in the character designs and settings enhances the immersive experience, while the creative blend of modernity and magic adds humor and charm.
The action sequences are visually dynamic, particularly the climactic battle with a stone dragon. The use of lighting and color further amplifies the emotional tone of the film, particularly during the brothers’ heartfelt moments.
Humor and Heart
While Onward delivers plenty of laughs, much of its humor comes from Barley’s antics and the absurdity of a modernized fantasy world. The scenes involving their father’s half-formed body provide a mix of physical comedy and poignant longing, balancing humor with deeper emotions.
The film’s heart lies in its exploration of family and sacrifice. Barley’s revelation about his one cherished memory with their father and Ian’s realization about the role Barley has played in his life create some of the most moving moments in Pixar’s history.
Strengths and Critiques
Onward excels in its ability to blend a fantastical quest with a deeply personal story. The creative world-building and relatable characters make it both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The film’s message about appreciating what we have and finding strength in unexpected places is universal and enduring.
However, some critics argue that Onward doesn’t reach the same groundbreaking heights as other Pixar films like Inside Out or Coco. While its themes are touching, its plot follows a relatively familiar adventure formula. Nonetheless, the execution and heartfelt performances make it a standout in its own right.
Legacy and Impact
Onward may not have achieved the box-office success of other Pixar films due to its release coinciding with the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has garnered a loyal following for its emotional depth and unique premise. The film’s focus on sibling relationships sets it apart in Pixar’s catalog, offering a story that resonates with viewers of all ages.
Its mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments ensures that Onward will remain a cherished addition to Pixar’s lineup, particularly for those who have experienced similar losses or found strength in their family bonds.
Conclusion
Onward is a magical and moving journey that highlights the power of love, family, and self-discovery. With its blend of humor, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling, it captures the essence of what makes Pixar films so beloved. Whether you’re drawn to its fantastical world or its heartfelt themes, Onward is a touching reminder to cherish the people who shape our lives. It’s a film that will leave you laughing, crying, and feeling inspired to embrace the magic in everyday moments.
FAQs About Onward
Q: What is Onward about?A: Onward follows two elf brothers, Ian and Barley, on a quest to complete a magical spell to bring back their late father for one day.
Q: Who directed Onward?A: The film was directed by Dan Scanlon, who drew inspiration from his own life experiences.
Q: Is Onward suitable for children?A: Yes, the film is rated PG and is suitable for children, though it includes some emotional themes that may require parental guidance.
Q: What are the main themes of the film?A: The film explores themes of family, grief, self-discovery, and appreciating the relationships that shape us.
Q: Who voices the main characters in Onward?A: Tom Holland voices Ian Lightfoot, Chris Pratt voices Barley Lightfoot, Julia Louis-Dreyfus voices Laurel Lightfoot, and Octavia Spencer voices the manticore.
Q: How does Onward compare to other Pixar films?A: While it may not be as groundbreaking as some Pixar classics, Onward stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and unique focus on sibling relationships.
Q: What is the significance of the father’s partial return?A: The partial return symbolizes the brothers’ incomplete relationship with their father and serves as a catalyst for their emotional growth.
Q: Is there a sequel to Onward?A: As of now, Pixar has not announced a sequel to Onward.
Q: What makes Onward unique?A: The film’s combination of a modernized fantasy world, relatable characters, and a focus on sibling bonds sets it apart from other Pixar films.
Q: What is the overall tone of the film?A: Onward balances humor and adventure with deeply emotional moments, creating a touching and uplifting narrative.
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