nbaschedule2012now.net – Released in 2020, Onward is a unique and heartfelt animated film from Pixar Animation Studios, directed by Dan Scanlon. Set in a fantastical suburban world where magic once existed but has faded into the background of modern life, Onward tells the story of two teenage brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, who embark on a quest to discover if there’s still magic left in the world. The film explores themes of family, loss, self-discovery, and the relationship between parents and children, all wrapped in a magical, whimsical narrative that resonates on both an emotional and personal level.
In contrast to some of Pixar’s previous works, which often dealt with more grandiose, world-saving plots, Onward is a more intimate story that focuses on the growth of its central characters, Ian and Barley, and their journey to understand what truly matters in life. Combining humor, adventure, and poignant moments, Onward tells a touching story about the bond between siblings and the quest to feel connected to one’s roots.
This article takes an in-depth look at Onward, examining its plot, themes, characters, and the cultural impact of the film in a world where family, nostalgia, and self-acceptance are central to the narrative.
Plot Summary: The Quest for Magic and Family Connection
A World Without Magic
Onward is set in a world where magic once existed but has been largely replaced by technology. In this alternate version of Earth, the creatures—elves, centaurs, unicorns, and other mythical beings—no longer rely on magic to solve their problems. Instead, they lead ordinary lives similar to those of humans, using cars, phones, and other modern conveniences. The film’s setting is a town where things like wizardry and potions are no longer part of everyday life, but the characters still live among remnants of a magical past.
At the center of the story are two teenage brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot. Ian, the younger brother, is shy, insecure, and uncertain about his place in the world. He feels disconnected from his father, Wilden, who passed away when he was very young. Barley, his older brother, is a spirited and somewhat rebellious character who has a deep love for all things magic. While Ian is more focused on the mundane aspects of life, Barley is obsessed with the old ways of magic, believing that there’s still adventure to be had and magic to be found.
The Magical Gift: A Letter and a Spell
The story begins with Ian’s 16th birthday, when he receives a special gift from his late father—a wizard’s staff and a letter that contains a spell. The spell is meant to allow Ian and Barley to bring their father back for one day, allowing them to meet him, even though he passed away when Ian was just a child. The spell, however, doesn’t go as planned. Instead of bringing their father back fully, the spell only partially works, resulting in just the lower half of their father’s body materializing. This creates an unexpected and somewhat comical situation where Ian and Barley are left with the task of finishing the spell before the end of the day.
The brothers embark on a journey to find the missing gem that will complete the spell, hoping to restore their father’s full body before time runs out. Along the way, they encounter a series of challenges, including navigating Barley’s old car (which he lovingly refers to as the “Manticore”) and dealing with the consequences of accidentally summoning a variety of magical creatures and phenomena. The quest is both a literal adventure and a metaphorical one, as the brothers learn valuable lessons about themselves, their relationship, and the importance of family.
Barley’s Passion for the Past
Throughout their journey, Barley serves as the more adventurous and reckless brother. He is fully immersed in the world of magic, often quoting history and lore from an old role-playing game he loves called “Quest of Yore.” Barley’s belief in the power of magic and his desire to reconnect with his father drive much of the story. He is dedicated to finding the magic that once was and believes that by completing the spell, they can reconnect with their father and restore something meaningful to their lives.
Barley’s enthusiasm for the past and the “good old days” of magic often clashes with Ian’s more practical approach. Ian is doubtful about the need for magic in his life, especially when it seems like it only brings trouble. But as the brothers move forward in their quest, Ian starts to recognize the importance of Barley’s passion, and their relationship begins to deepen. Ian starts to see the magic that exists in their connection and in the love they share for their father.
The Journey’s Emotional Climax: A Lesson in Family and Self-Discovery
As the brothers near the completion of their journey, they come to a crucial realization: the magic they were searching for wasn’t the magic of the past, but the magic that existed within their own bond as brothers. They also come to understand that the true essence of family isn’t about having all the answers or getting the perfect moment—it’s about being there for each other, even in the most difficult circumstances.
In a powerful, emotionally charged scene, Ian faces a choice. With just moments left to complete the spell, he has the opportunity to meet his father fully, but it would mean leaving Barley behind. Ian, having grown and matured throughout the journey, makes the selfless decision to let Barley have the moment with their father instead. In doing so, Ian recognizes that his true family is not just about the idealized version of his father, but about the brother who has been by his side all along. This decision highlights the theme of self-discovery and the emotional realization that sometimes the person you need is right beside you.
In the final moments of the film, the brothers share a heartfelt goodbye with their father’s spirit. Although they don’t get the reunion they had hoped for, they learn that family and love are about the moments you share with the people around you, not about recreating past memories. The film ends with Ian feeling more connected to both Barley and his late father than ever before.
Themes and Messages: Family, Self-Discovery, and the Magic of Everyday Life
The Power of Family and Sibling Bonds
At its heart, Onward is a story about family—specifically the relationship between two brothers who, despite their differences, learn to rely on each other in times of need. The film explores how family doesn’t just mean the people you were born with, but the relationships you form and nurture over time. Through their adventure, Ian and Barley’s bond grows stronger, and they come to appreciate the unique qualities that each brother brings to the table.
Barley’s belief in magic and his deep love for their father contrasts with Ian’s more pragmatic and reserved approach. Their relationship is tested as they face obstacles on their quest, but in the end, their love for each other and their shared memories of their father bind them together in a way that transcends the need for perfection or idealized moments.
Onward also highlights the importance of showing up for family, even in the absence of the ideal circumstances. Both brothers realize that they’ve been taking each other for granted, but their journey helps them see that the love they share is the greatest form of magic.
Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
The film’s exploration of self-discovery is one of its most poignant aspects. Ian starts the story as an unsure, anxious teenager who feels disconnected from his father and unsure about his place in the world. As the adventure unfolds, Ian gradually gains confidence in himself, learning that he doesn’t need to rely on an idealized version of his father to find his own purpose. The journey helps him recognize that he has the ability to create meaningful connections and to embrace the qualities that make him unique.
Barley, too, undergoes his own growth. Though he’s confident and outgoing, Barley struggles with the idea that he’s not the kind of person his father might have hoped him to be. His love for magic and history helps him process his grief and maintain a sense of purpose, but through the journey, he comes to accept that being himself is enough. His role as the older brother helps Ian navigate his own doubts and fears, and by the end of the film, Barley realizes that his love for the past isn’t about trying to bring back something that’s been lost, but about cherishing the memories that continue to shape who he is.
The Magic of Everyday Life
While Onward is set in a world filled with magic, the real magic of the story lies in its everyday moments. The idea that magic is no longer the center of this world serves as a metaphor for the way we sometimes overlook the magic in our own lives. In Onward, magic doesn’t have to come from spells or mystical creatures—it can be found in the relationships we build, the love we share, and the personal growth we undergo as individuals. The film emphasizes that, while extraordinary things may happen in life, it’s the simple, everyday connections that truly make life magical.
Coping with Loss and Grief
The film also touches on themes of loss and grief, particularly in how Ian and Barley cope with the absence of their father. While the film’s plot revolves around the idea of bringing their father back for a day, it ultimately underscores the notion that even though a loved one is gone, their influence and legacy live on through the people they leave behind. Ian and Barley may never get the perfect closure they envisioned, but the emotional closure they find in each other and their shared memories is more profound than any magic could provide.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt Journey of Growth and Connection
Onward is an emotionally resonant film that weaves together themes of family, personal growth, and the everyday magic of life. Pixar’s exploration of sibling relationships, self-discovery, and the healing power of connection makes it a unique addition to their library of animated films. Through its heartwarming storytelling, engaging characters, and relatable themes, Onward reminds us that the real magic in life lies not in grand adventures or magical spells, but in the people we love and the moments we share.
In a world where it’s easy to feel disconnected or uncertain about the future, Onward offers a timely reminder that even in the absence of magic, we have the power to create our own meaningful stories. It’s a celebration of family, both the family we’re born into and the family we choose, and it teaches us that the bonds we share are the greatest adventure of all.