Onward

Set in a world where magic quietly threads through everyday life, Onward follows two elf brothers who want more than the ordinary for their lives. In a neighborhood that feels both familiar and enchanted, they discover a chance to locate a spark of magic that has faded from their world. The quest launches them from their cozy suburb into a string of hidden places where myths glow in the shadows and danger hides in plain sight. They stumble into misadventures that demand quick wits and teamwork, and the brothers begin to see that true courage means facing their fears and leaning on each other.

Released in 2020 by Pixar, Onward was directed by Dan Scanlon from an original story by Scanlon, Kelsey Mann, Jason Headley and Keith Bunin. The film features Tom Holland and Chris Pratt as the lead brothers, with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Octavia Spencer and Mel Rodriguez in supporting roles.

Visually the film blends a suburban texture with vivid fantasy, giving streets a glow. The Manticore character became a fan favorite for her spicy wit and heart. The movie added to conversations about family and resilience, and its music and animation helped keep the world visible in homes and classrooms.

Critics gave the film generally warm notices for its humor and emotional resonance, while some felt the pacing sagged at moments. The core themes center on brotherhood, growth, and learning to cope with loss, showing that memory can kindle courage and keep magic alive, a message many families connected with.

Onward earned recognition at major awards, including a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards, underscoring Pixar's continued strength in blending warmth with inventive visuals. The nomination highlighted the film's appeal to families and animation fans alike, and reinforced the studio's ongoing track record for audiences worldwide.