27 Facts About Onward

The Basics of Onward

"Onward" is a 2020 animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Set in a suburban fantasy world, it follows two elf brothers on a quest to bring back their deceased father for one day.

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   Directed by Dan Scanlon: The same director who brought us "Monsters University" helmed "Onward," bringing his unique storytelling style to the film.

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   Inspired by Personal Experience: Dan Scanlon drew inspiration from his own life, particularly the loss of his father, to create the heartfelt story of "Onward."

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   Voice Cast: The film features the voices of Tom Holland and Chris Pratt as the two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot.

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   Fantasy World: The movie is set in a world where magic once existed but has been largely replaced by modern technology.

Characters and Their Unique Traits

The characters in "Onward" are memorable and bring a lot of heart and humor to the story. Each has unique traits that make them stand out.

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   Ian Lightfoot: Voiced by Tom Holland, Ian is a shy and awkward teenager who discovers his potential throughout the film.

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   Barley Lightfoot: Chris Pratt voices Barley, Ian's older brother, who is enthusiastic and obsessed with quests and magic.

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   Laurel Lightfoot: Julia Louis-Dreyfus voices the boys' mother, who is supportive and strong, playing a crucial role in their adventure.

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   The Manticore: Octavia Spencer voices this character, a once-fierce warrior who now runs a family-friendly restaurant.

Magical Elements and Artifacts

Magic plays a significant role in "Onward," with various elements and artifacts adding depth to the story.

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   Wizard Staff: The brothers use their father's wizard staff to attempt to bring him back for one day.

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    Phoenix Gem: This magical gem is essential for the spell to work, and its quest drives much of the plot.

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    Guinevere: Barley's beloved van, named after the legendary queen, becomes a crucial part of their journey.

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    The Curse Crusher: A magical sword that plays a pivotal role in the climax of the film.

Themes and Messages

"Onward" explores several themes that resonate with audiences of all ages, making it more than just a fantasy adventure.

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    Brotherhood: The bond between Ian and Barley is central to the story, highlighting the importance of family.

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    Self-Discovery: Ian's journey is one of self-discovery, learning to believe in himself and his abilities.

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    Grief and Loss: The film sensitively handles themes of grief and loss, offering a touching portrayal of coping with the death of a loved one.

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    Courage and Bravery: Both brothers show immense courage and bravery, facing numerous challenges head-on.

Production and Animation

The production of "Onward" involved a lot of creativity and hard work, resulting in stunning visuals and a captivating story.

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    Animation Style: Pixar's signature animation style brings the suburban fantasy world to life with vibrant colors and detailed environments.

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    Voice Acting: The voice actors recorded their lines separately, bringing their characters to life through their performances.

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    Music: The film's score, composed by Mychael and Jeff Danna, enhances the emotional and adventurous aspects of the story.

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    Easter Eggs: As with many Pixar films, "Onward" is filled with Easter eggs and references to other Pixar movies.

Reception and Impact

"Onward" received a warm reception from audiences and critics alike, making a significant impact in the world of animated films.

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    Box Office: Despite a challenging release due to the COVID-19 pandemic, "Onward" grossed over $100 million worldwide.

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    Critical Acclaim: The film received positive reviews for its heartfelt story, voice performances, and animation quality.

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    Awards: "Onward" was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

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    Cultural Impact: The film's themes of family and self-discovery resonated with many, making it a memorable addition to Pixar's lineup.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about "Onward" that fans might find interesting.

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    Hidden Mickeys: As with many Disney films, "Onward" features hidden Mickey Mouse shapes throughout the movie.

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    Real-Life Inspirations: The filmmakers visited various locations, including old castles and caves, to draw inspiration for the film's settings.

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    Voice Cameos: Several Pixar employees and family members of the cast and crew provided additional voices for background characters.

Final Thoughts on Onward

Onward isn't just another animated movie; it's a heartfelt journey that explores family, magic, and self-discovery. With its unique blend of humor, adventure, and emotion, it captivates audiences of all ages. The film's rich world-building and relatable characters make it a standout in Pixar's impressive lineup. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or just looking for a touching story, Onward delivers on all fronts. Its messages about courage, love, and the importance of cherishing every moment resonate deeply. So next time you're in the mood for a movie night, give Onward a watch. You'll laugh, you might cry, but most importantly, you'll walk away with a renewed appreciation for the magic in everyday life.