Disney-Pixar's 'Onward' Is a Modern Coming-of-Age Tale with a Traditional Fantasy Spin!

The movie, released this past Friday (March 6), is a coming-of-age story featuring a teenage elf, Ian (Tom Holland), and his older brother, Barley (Chris Pratt), living in a magic world where technology has taken over, leaving magic as (mostly) abandoned history. 

The brothers' father died before Ian was born, but he left a gift for the boys once they are both over 16. On his 16th birthday Ian’s mom gives him the gift, which turns out to be a magic staff that has the ability to bring their father back to life, but only for 24 hours. When the spell gets disrupted halfway through, the boys are left with only their father from the waist-down and have to find a way to get him back entirely before the 24 hours are up. 

This is an interesting new take on the typical coming-of-age story that has become so popular. The world of Onward is filled with elves, pixies, centaurs, manticore, dragons, cyclops, unicorns, and more, all living in (more or less) harmony. 

The movie gives a strong message on the potential drawbacks of technology and the importance of history and tradition. While technology does make life easier for many of the characters, it also has its setbacks. Automobiles have replaced most physical exercise, including centaurs running and pixies flying. Generations of technology replacing magic have caused these magical creatures to forget how to use their powers. 

One of my favorite parts of this movie is the character development we see in Ian. He starts off as a shy, awkward kid with barely any friends who sees his brother as a screw-up and an embarrassment. However, as the movie progresses, we see Ian gain self-esteem and appreciation for his brother and even use his newfound confidence to inspire others. 

Barley is one of the best characters in the movie, in my opinion. He is always supportive of his younger brother, pushing him to grow and be the best and strongest person he can be, even when Ian is unappreciative and, at times, just mean. Barley took it upon himself to act as a surrogate father to Ian, despite still being just a kid himself. 

Onward is one of the first Disney animated films to have an openly gay character, police officer Specter (Lena Waithe). However, Specter was only present in one scene and her girlfriend only mentioned briefly. Despite it being such a small piece of LGBTQ representation, it is still a big step forward for the LGBTQ community and I hope it will lead to more representation in future Disney movies and shows. 

Onward is a beautifully created movie that will have you laughing and crying, and is definitely worth the trip to the theatre! So head out on your own epic quest and see this film asap!