Written by Shelia Valdivia
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Welcome to the magical world of Onward! This animated film, released in 2020, takes us on an exciting journey filled with adventure, humor, and heart. Directed by Dan Scanlon and produced by Pixar Animation Studios, Onward has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its unique storytelling and stunning visuals. Set in a suburban fantasy world, the film follows the quest of two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, as they embark on a mission to bring their late father back to life for just one day. Along the way, they encounter mythical creatures, face thrilling challenges, and learn valuable lessons about family, friendship, and the power of believing in oneself. In this article, we’ll dive into 34 fascinating facts about the making of Onward, giving you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at this captivating cinematic masterpiece.
Key Takeaways:
- “Discover the magical world of Onward, where two elf brothers go on an epic quest filled with adventure, humor, and heartwarming moments, teaching valuable lessons about family and self-discovery.”
- “Experience the emotional journey of Onward, as it weaves a tale of loss, bravery, and the enduring power of love and hope, leaving a lasting impact on audiences of all ages.”
The Inspiration
The idea for the movie Onward was inspired by director Dan Scanlon’s personal experience of losing his father at a young age. This emotional journey became the foundation for the film’s storyline.
The Magical World
Onward is set in a magical suburban world where mythical creatures like elves, trolls, and unicorns live alongside modern technology.
The Two Protagonists
The movie follows the journey of two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt respectively. They embark on a quest to bring their father back to life for a day using a magical staff.
The Quest
In order to complete their quest, the brothers must overcome various obstacles and face dangerous creatures, all while trying to master the magic they possess.
The Brotherly Bond
The movie explores the strong bond between the two brothers and highlights the importance of family and connection.
The Voice Cast
Aside from Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, the voice cast includes Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the boys’ mother, Laurel Lightfoot, and Octavia Spencer as the friendly manticore named Corey.
The Role of Music
The movie features a memorable soundtrack composed by Mychael Danna and Jeff Danna, enhancing the emotional moments and adding depth to the story.
The Magical Creatures
Onward introduces a wide range of magical creatures such as pixies, centaurs, and dragons, showcasing a vibrant and diverse world.
The Animation Style
The movie combines stunning 3D animation with a whimsical and colorful visual style, creating a visually captivating experience.
The Emphasis on Adventure
Onward is filled with thrilling and heartwarming adventures, making it an exciting journey for both children and adults alike.
The Emotional Themes
The movie explores themes of loss, grief, and the power of memories, delivering a profound and emotional narrative.
The Pixar Magic
Onward is the 22nd feature film from Pixar Animation Studios, known for their ability to create emotionally resonant stories with stunning animation.
The Collaboration
The movie was a collaborative effort between the director, writers, animators, and voice cast, all working together to bring the story to life.
The Release Date
Onward was released on March 6, 2020, captivating audiences around the world with its enchanting story.
The Critical Acclaim
The movie received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, praising its heartfelt story, vibrant animation, and memorable characters.
The Box Office Success
Despite being released just before the COVID-19 pandemic, Onward still managed to earn over $141 million at the global box office.
The Easter Eggs
True to Pixar tradition, Onward is filled with Easter eggs and references to other films, providing fun surprises for eagle-eyed viewers.
The Positive Messages
Onward promotes messages of bravery, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing one’s own uniqueness.
The Magical Influences
The movie draws inspiration from various fantasy and adventure genres, paying homage to classics such as Dungeons & Dragons.
The Character Development
Throughout the film, the characters undergo personal growth and transformation, overcoming their fears and facing their inner demons.
The Humor
Onward blends humor and heart seamlessly, providing both laughs and touching moments within the storyline.
The Connection to Modern World
Despite the magical setting, the movie cleverly incorporates elements of the modern world, like smartphones and suburban life, creating a relatable atmosphere.
The Importance of Family
Onward emphasizes the significance of family bonds and the impact they have on our lives, teaching valuable lessons along the way.
The Depth of the Story
Beyond its fantasy setting, Onward delves into deeper themes such as regret, acceptance, and the pursuit of one’s true identity.
The Diverse Cast
Onward showcases a diverse cast of characters, promoting inclusivity and representation within the animated film industry.
The Pixar Short
Before the movie, audiences were treated to the Pixar short film “Playdate with Destiny,” featuring the lovable character, Baby Yoda.
The Costumes
The character designs and costumes in Onward reflect the modern-day suburban setting while incorporating fantastical elements, adding visual interest.
The Heartwarming Moments
Onward delivers several heartwarming scenes that tug at the audience’s emotions, leaving a lasting impact.
The Magic Spells
In Onward, magic spells are cast using a magical staff and a spell incantation, making for visually stunning moments throughout the film.
The Importance of History
The movie highlights the value of preserving history and keeping connections to the past alive, even in a modern world.
The Lessons Learned
Onward teaches valuable lessons about the power of belief in oneself, the strength of family bonds, and the importance of embracing the unknown.
The Journey of Self-Discovery
The characters in Onward embark on a physical and emotional journey that ultimately leads to self-discovery and personal growth.
The Touching Ending
The ending of Onward leaves an emotional impact, reminding viewers of the preciousness of familial relationships and the memories we hold dear.
The Everlasting Magic
Onward’s message of hope, love, and the enduring power of magic lingers long after the credits roll, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the movie “Onward” is a delightful and heartwarming film that takes viewers on a magical journey full of adventure and emotion. With its vibrant animation, captivating storyline, and talented voice cast, it has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film’s unique blend of humor, fantasy, and meaningful messages about family and self-discovery make it an absolute must-watch for people of all ages.From the incredible world-building to the relatable characters, “Onward” showcases the immense creativity and storytelling prowess of Pixar Animation Studios. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy films, animated movies, or simply looking for a feel-good film that will leave you with a smile on your face, “Onward” is sure to satisfy.So grab your popcorn, gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with “Onward.”
FAQs
1. What is the plot of “Onward”?
Onward” follows the story of two elf brothers, Ian and Barley, who embark on a quest to discover if magic still exists in their modern world. Along the way, they encounter mythical creatures, navigate enchanting landscapes, and learn valuable lessons about the power of family and believing in oneself.
2. Who are the main voice actors in “Onward”?
The main characters of Ian and Barley Lightfoot are voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt respectively. Other notable voice actors in the film include Julia Louis-Dreyfus as their mother, Laurel, and Octavia Spencer as the manticore, Corey.
3. Is “Onward” suitable for children?
“Onward” is generally suitable for children, with its PG rating indicating that some material may not be suitable for younger audiences. The film contains mild fantasy violence and some emotional scenes, but overall, it provides a wholesome and entertaining experience for the whole family.
4. What is the significance of the title, “Onward”?
The title “Onward” reflects the central theme of the movie, which is about pushing forward, embracing adventure, and never giving up. It represents the characters’ journey towards discovering their true potential and the power of perseverance.
5. Is “Onward” a Pixar film?
Yes, “Onward” is produced by Pixar Animation Studios, known for their critically acclaimed films such as “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Up.” The film showcases the studio’s signature blend of stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and memorable characters.
6. Is there a message or lesson in “Onward”?
Yes, “Onward” delivers several important messages, including the importance of family, the power of belief in oneself, and the value of embracing both the magic and imperfections in life. It encourages viewers to appreciate the present moment and cherish the relationships that matter most.
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