The **Onward film** is a 2020 computer-animated urban fantasy adventure from Disney and Pixar. It follows two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, who embark on a magical quest to resurrect their deceased father for a single day.
What if magic faded away, replaced by mundane modern conveniences? Disney Pixar’s Onward explores this intriguing premise, creating an unforgettable adventure. The film transports us to New Mushroomton, a world where mythical creatures have embraced technology. In this setting, two elf brothers embark on a magical quest to bring their father back for just one more day. The result is a story packed with humor, heart, and genuine emotion that resonates long after the credits roll.
Here at IWatchMovies Blog, we explore everything that makes Onward such a standout. Whether you’re a longtime fan seeking behind-the-scenes details or a newcomer looking to understand the hype, this is your ultimate guide. We’ll cover the captivating plot, introduce the incredible voice cast including Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, reveal the true antagonist, explore where you can stream this magical journey, and even touch upon the possibility of an Onward 2.
From its imaginative world-building to its touching portrayal of sibling bonds, Onward delivers a unique cinematic experience. So, grab your wizard staff (or just your favorite snack) as we uncover the secrets of this modern fantasy gem. Let’s start by unraveling the enchanting narrative: What is the story that drives the Lightfoot brothers’ incredible adventure?
What Is the Story of the Onward Film?
The Premise: A Quest for One More Day
The Onward film takes us on a magical quest, introducing us to two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, who live in a suburban fantasy world. Ian is a shy, awkward teenager, while his older brother, Barley, is a boisterous, D&D-loving history buff. Their father passed away when they were very young, leaving Ian longing to meet the dad he never knew and Barley with only vague memories.
On Ian’s 16th birthday, their mother, Laurel, gives them a special gift their father left for them: a wizard’s staff and a spell that can bring him back for a single day. However, when Ian attempts the spell, it only partially works, bringing back just their father’s lower half. To complete the spell, the brothers must find a rare Phoenix Gem within 24 hours, or they will lose their chance to see their father forever. Thus, their extraordinary adventure begins.
Exploring the World of New Mushroomton
The Onward film is set in New Mushroomton, a world that was once full of magic where elves, centaurs, and other mythical creatures roamed freely. Over time, however, magic faded as technology became easier to use, and the inhabitants embraced modern conveniences, forgetting their magical heritage. As a result, this once-enchanted land now looks quite ordinary.
Today, elves drive cars, centaurs work as police officers, and pixies ride motorcycles. Barley, however, is obsessed with the old ways, studying ancient maps and folklore in his belief that magic still exists. While his knowledge often seems useless to others, it proves crucial for their journey. Along the way, the brothers encounter fantastic creatures like goblins, sprites, and even a manticore, all living surprisingly mundane lives. This blend of the magical and the mundane creates a unique backdrop for their quest.
Themes of Brotherhood and Magic
At its heart, the Onward film is about brotherhood and the complicated relationship between Ian and Barley. Initially, Ian finds his older brother embarrassing, while Barley sees Ian as naive. Their quest, however, forces them to rely on each other, which immensely strengthens their bond. As Ian learns to believe in himself and discovers his own magical abilities, Barley steps up as a true protector, guiding his younger brother through danger.
The film explores magic beyond just spells, delving into the deeper magic of family, courage, and self-discovery. Ian learns that the magic he seeks is not only within himself but also in the people around him. His journey helps him to truly appreciate Barley, realizing the sacrifices his brother has made. Ultimately, the story highlights the importance of cherishing loved ones and celebrates the powerful, everyday magic found in connection and support.
Who is in the Cast of the Onward film?
The enchanting world of New Mushroomton truly comes alive thanks to an incredible voice cast. These talented actors breathe life into every character, making the Onward film a memorable experience.
Tom Holland as Ian Lightfoot
Get ready to feel all the emotions with Tom Holland as Ian Lightfoot. Widely known for his role as Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe [1], Holland voices Onward‘s main protagonist. Ian is a shy, awkward teenage elf who yearns for magic and adventure. Holland perfectly captures Ian’s nervous energy while also conveying his deep desire to connect with his late father, anchoring the film’s emotional core.
Chris Pratt as Barley Lightfoot
Chris Pratt steps into the role of Barley Lightfoot, Ian’s boisterous and passionate older brother. Celebrated for his work as Star-Lord in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy [2], Pratt plays a character obsessed with old-world magic who acts as Ian’s guide on their quest. His natural charisma shines through, bringing both humor and heart to the role while highlighting Barley’s unwavering belief in magic and his brother.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Laurel Lightfoot
The formidable Julia Louis-Dreyfus, known for iconic TV shows like Seinfeld and Veep [3], voices Laurel Lightfoot. In the film, Laurel is Ian and Barley’s loving yet fierce mother. Determined to protect her sons, she embarks on her own parallel quest and faces danger head-on. Louis-Dreyfus delivers a powerful performance that embodies Laurel’s strength and unwavering maternal love.
Other Notable Voice Actors
Onward also boasts an incredible supporting cast whose talent further enriches the story. These actors bring unique personalities to the fantastical residents of New Mushroomton.
- Octavia Spencer as The Manticore: A legendary warrior who now runs a themed restaurant, Spencer provides a robust and humorous performance [4].
- Ali Wong as Gore: A loyal and quick-witted cyclops police officer and a friend to Laurel [5].
- Lena Waithe as Specter: A no-nonsense cyclops police officer, Specter is notable for being Disney-Pixar’s first openly LGBTQ+ character [6].
- Mel Rodriguez as Colt Bronco: Laurel’s well-meaning but often oblivious centaur boyfriend [7].
- Kyle Bornheimer as Blazey: A dragon pet who adds comic relief to the story [8].
Who is the Onward film villain?
The Curse Dragon: The Final Obstacle
In its thrilling climax, the Onward film features a formidable foe: the terrifying Curse Dragon, which serves as the primary obstacle during the movie’s final act.
However, the Curse Dragon’s nature is unique. It is not a traditional villain with malevolent intent but rather a powerful magical construct born from a curse. This curse is designed to protect the ancient Phoenix Gem [9], which is crucial for completing Ian and Barley’s quest.
With a genuinely menacing appearance, the massive, fiery creature’s sole purpose is to guard the gem fiercely. It embodies the wild, untamed magic largely forgotten in New Mushroomton. The brothers, Ian Lightfoot and Barley Lightfoot, must face this beast in a thrilling confrontation that tests their magical skills and brotherly bond. Ultimately, the Curse Dragon serves as a powerful symbol of the grand physical challenge on their magical journey.
The True Conflict: Overcoming Fear and Doubt
Despite the dragon’s imposing presence, the Onward film reveals that the true conflict is not an external monster but an internal one. The real “villain” lies within the protagonists themselves, a common trope the film masterfully uses to explore themes of self-doubt and personal insecurity. For Ian and Barley, these internal struggles are the real hurdles to overcome.
The younger brother, Ian Lightfoot, is timid and struggles with shyness and a lack of confidence in his magical abilities. His journey is about learning to believe in himself and embrace his unique strengths. In contrast, Barley Lightfoot appears fearless but carries the burden of past regrets and a deep responsibility to protect Ian while longing to connect with their late father.
Consequently, their quest becomes less about finding a gem and more about personal growth and strengthening their bond. By facing challenges like the dragon, the brothers are forced to confront their internal struggles, which helps them learn to trust each other and grow as individuals. The film’s resonant message is that the biggest obstacles are often the ones we create for ourselves, making the true victory in Onward the act of overcoming these internal barriers.
Where can you watch the Onward film?
Wondering where to join Ian and Barley Lightfoot on their magical quest? Good news: The enchanting film Onward is easy to find. You can dive into this heartwarming Disney Pixar adventure through several convenient streaming and digital purchase options.
Streaming on Disney+
As a Disney Pixar creation, Onward‘s primary home is on Disney+. With a subscription to this popular streaming service, you can watch the film anytime.
Interestingly, Onward had an expedited release on Disney+, arriving in April 2020—much sooner than planned. This early release was a direct response to global circumstances, allowing more families to enjoy the movie from the comfort of home [10].
Streaming on Disney+ also offers several other perks:
- Unlimited Access: Watch Onward as many times as you like with your subscription.
- Multiple Devices: Enjoy it on your smart TV, tablet, phone, or computer.
- High Quality: Experience the stunning animation in high definition, often up to 4K resolution where available.
- Family-Friendly Library: Access a vast collection of other Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
If you’re already a Disney+ subscriber, you’re all set to begin this fantastic journey!
Digital Purchase and Rental Options
If you prefer to own movies or want a one-time rental without a subscription, Onward is also widely available on various digital platforms. This gives you the flexibility to watch it offline or add it to your permanent collection.
You can find Onward for digital purchase or rental on major platforms, including:
- Amazon Prime Video: A popular choice for both buying and renting new releases.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Offers a seamless experience for Apple device users.
- Google Play: Accessible across Android devices and web browsers.
- Vudu: Known for its extensive catalog and 4K UHD offerings.
- Microsoft Store: Available for Xbox users and Windows PCs.
- YouTube Movies: Another convenient option for digital purchases and rentals.
When choosing between a purchase and a rental, consider your viewing habits. A digital purchase gives you a copy of Onward to keep indefinitely, making it a great option for repeated viewings. In contrast, a rental provides temporary access—usually for a 24-48 hour window once you start watching—at a lower cost.
Regardless of which option you choose, enjoying the magical, heartfelt story of the Lightfoot brothers is just a few clicks away.
Will There Be an Onward 2?
Current Status and Official Statements
After the heartwarming tale of Ian and Barley Lightfoot captivated audiences, many fans now wonder if we will see an Onward 2. However, Pixar has a unique approach to sequels, often prioritizing original stories over direct continuations.
Currently, there are no official plans for an Onward sequel, as Disney and Pixar have not announced any development for Onward 2 [11]. This is common for films that are not massive box office hits; while Onward performed well, it was not among Pixar’s highest earners. Furthermore, the first film delivered a complete and conclusive story arc. By the end, Ian had achieved his goal, Barley had found his purpose, and their bond had grown stronger, leaving little room for an immediate sequel.
Potential Storylines for a Sequel
Even without official news, it’s fun to imagine where a sequel could go. The world of New Mushroomton is rich with possibilities, and a follow-up film could explore several exciting avenues.
- Ian’s Developing Magic: Having discovered his magical abilities, an Onward 2 could focus on Ian’s training. A new story could follow him as he joins a magic school or learns more complex spells, expanding on the magical system introduced in the first film.
- Barley’s Continued Questing: As a master of lore, Barley could lead new quests in search of other forgotten relics. His love for history and adventure provides a strong foundation for a story involving more mythical creatures and epic journeys.
- The Return of True Magic: A sequel could explore the consequences of magic returning to the world, as hinted at in the original’s ending. This scenario offers rich comedic and dramatic potential by showing how modern residents adapt to the clash between ancient ways and new technology.
- Laurel and the Manticore’s Adventures: Laurel Lightfoot and the Manticore proved to be a dynamic duo, with Laurel showing she is a fierce warrior and the Manticore rediscovering her adventurous spirit. They could embark on their own separate quest, which could explore more adult-oriented themes of heroism.
- Exploring the Wider World: While the first film focused on New Mushroomton, a sequel could venture into other fantastical lands. This would broaden the scope of the Onward universe by introducing new characters, cultures, and dangers.
Ultimately, a sequel would need a compelling reason to exist. It would need to add significant value to the Lightfoot brothers’ story. For now, we can cherish the original film’s magic.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Onward Film
What is Barley’s role in the Onward film?
As Ian’s older brother, Barley Lightfoot is a central character in the Onward film. A passionate enthusiast for their world’s forgotten magical past, Barley serves as Ian’s enthusiastic, chaotic, yet invaluable guide on their quest.
His deep knowledge of ancient lore, spells, and mythical creatures proves crucial. He also provides comic relief throughout the adventure. Embodying the spirit of courage and imagination, Barley constantly pushes Ian to believe in himself and the magic around them, making him the heart of their journey.
Who is Sundra in the Onward film?
Sundra is a memorable character in the Onward film, voiced by the hilarious Ali Wong. She leads the formidable Pixie Dusters motorcycle gang, a tough, biker-esque crew who are far from your typical sweet pixies.
Initially, Sundra and her gang act as minor antagonists, challenging Ian and Barley as they try to acquire a map. However, Sundra becomes an unexpected ally and ultimately aids the brothers on their magical quest, demonstrating that appearances can be deceiving in New Mushroomton.
What is Disney’s connection to the Onward film?
The Onward film is part of the Disney family, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures [9].
The film later debuted on the Disney+ streaming service, making it widely accessible. This strong connection is evident in the Onward film’s signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and stunning animation for which both Disney and Pixar are renowned.
Sources
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4043618/
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- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000504/
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0817311/
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- https://www.pixar.com/feature-films/onward
- https://www.disneyplus.com/news/onward-early-digital-disney-plus-release-details
- https://collider.com/pixar-sequels-original-movies/
