The Genius of Onward's Ending

[@vixiestarfire]

I literally burst into tears when Ian told Barley he could have time with his dad. Such a selfless act because Barley knew his dad to a degree and so they had a bond, and Barley missed his dad so much because of that. Since Ian didn’t meet his dad he understood that piece missing from his dad being gone was much larger for Barley. Such a mature and selfless decision to make and I love it so much

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

RIGHT? Utterly selfless. The waterworks hit me then as well.

[@anonymousmadlad433]

You wanna know what was in this movie that made me cry at a fiction for the first time I can remember? The dance scene. When their dads legs started vibing and Barley completed his dad's dance moves along with the rock music, that did it for me. I'm not joking. Uplifting content is just more powerful for me.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

@@anonymousmadlad433 That scene was extraordinarily well done. Imagining what the top half of the dance looks like. Brilliant.

[@tripled2505]

@@Fallingwithstyle1995 I also loved the scene where ian was checking off all the things he did with his brother. I dont know y but the music and everything just worked well with it

[@cwix1223]

OK Peachie and Ian had Barley has a guardian figure. Barley didnt have someone like that even though they both had their mom

[@Broccolaicy]

Why I like onwards: • Their mother was genuinely supportive and understanding and didn't just take side of the new boyfriend. • The older brother wasn't a bully brother. He genuinely cared for his younger brother. • Barley never puts ian down. Despite ian downsizing barley, barley didn't say anything to downsize ian during that fight. • Barley despite being obsessed with wizards and stuff like that, was never jealous of ian's wizarding. He genuinely supported and was excited for him. Yeah there's a few more but these are the most important. Barley was more focused on filling ian's childhood. He had a belief and stood by it. (Take him trying to save the fountain). Barley was seen a failure from other people's eyes and he knew but he didn't care. As long as his brother ian is happy. I loved that a lot.

[@dysxleia]

Ikr, it's the only truly good mother character in the Disney universe I can think of

[@dysxleia]

And yeah, the sibling relationship Pixar built that you are talking about was really unique and profound, to the point where it's saddening that no one had really done that before

[@dieog3078]

D-Rock Ikr, hell, their relationship was so strong I felt jealous that my relationship with my sister wasn’t like that

[@hectorvazquez1207]

You’re gonna make me cry again

[@Ar_art_1]

Agreed full-heartedly and they had their first LGBTQ+ animated character ever

[@billievit]

Curiously, this is the second character of Chris Pratt who in his childhood did not properly say goodbye to one of his parents on deathbed due to fear.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Immediately thought of this too.

[@FlashQuatsch]

That's one reason why I thought the ending was so good, Barley had closure. And while Ian never really met his dad, a few seconds wouldn't have meant as much as for him as they did for Barley.

[@kennedyisanerd9262]

That’s exactly what I said. I wonder if they did it on purpose.

[@1classikai]

And the second character of Tom Holland who had a massive stone structure fall on top of him

[@dorksdomain8355]

Cosmo Padrino Mágico yeah and this is the second character Tom has played were he hasn’t had a father figure your point

[@amberpasta9379]

Honestly I think the best part of the movie is that there wasn’t actually any real villain it was all just circumstance which made it more realistic and relatable.. because sometimes that’s just how life is. There’s not some evil person out to get us but more like there’s things that get in the way of us finding closure and achieving happiness. Rather than fighting other people usually we are just fighting our own emotions because we are trying to understand them. The character development was very strong and well needed and deserved it didn’t feel like it was forced because it was a steady progression and a fulfilling one at that

[@ZackeryCochran]

Our own emotions and a red smoke dragon made from crumbled school building.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

It wouldn't hurt for Disney to make a traditional villain like the good old days

[@danr1620]

Amber pasta Just like Inside Out!

[@mateoafasozsadesshedbaraty6416]

One Of That Zone has to a good morning 😃☀️🌞 morning morning was the morning day for my dad birthday 🍰 I have to call you and him I will do it and I call him later on when he was home 🏠 I have him call call and let her do a little more work done ✅ was that good night 🌙😘😴💤 morning time is time you have time and will call him and you can have call her later on and I have time for a good little morning call and him I can have a a little more to call you and let her do a little later let her have a a little more to call you and him I call him when he has time and let you talk ASE Was and day you can have call you when we get we call him when we get come to call you Sacki call Of was my time call him and I have to do it and let you talk later when I can do him I have to a little time and I cannot

[@Superhero-Motivation]

Beautifully said

[@rajatarora6664]

Another moment of genius that sadly hasn't gotten much attention and shows Ian's journey is the difference in his attitude the two times he casts visitation spell. The first time when Ian is struggling with the spell and Barley rushes to help him, he shrugs away and just as he does so, the gem breaks. The second time at the end though, Ian calls Barley himself for help and is only then he could successfully cast the spell. This not only shows how Ian's attitude towards his brother has changed but also thematically presents how Barley has been a hand on Ian's shoulder

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

I just was rewatching the film on digital and I really came to notice and appreciate that subtly executed growth. It’s wonderful.

[@punkleos]

even so, this is like one tiny good detail within a huge wet sandwich of a movie

[@Jrocker105MC]

I noticed this as well, what I also noticed is that Ian said two words both times, ‘Barley’ and ‘No’, once he yells “Barley No!” during the first cast, and during the second, as he slides away he yells “No, Barley!” I think it’s a subtle way to show his mindset and how it changed

[@hrvbox]

I'M CRYING

[@JoshBlomquist]

I literally just explained this exact thing to my wife haha

[@dimitrypittman143]

There is another important character in Onward, that rarely is talked about, “MOM”. She deserves so much more rep, than she has now. A very overlooked character by a mile.

[@worldviews561]

YES

[@echommm3621]

What about the van

[@lalboimanlun1230]

Well she's not really important to the plot though apart from her little help at the end. That too also felt forced.

[@notavailable8201]

@@lalboimanlun1230 I don't think it's forced I mean she knew her sons wanted to meet their Dad and supported them she was only there with the Manticore to keep the curse from hurting her children. I'd say she was a good thing to be in the final battle. Cause she tried giving them time to complete the spell when Manticore got hurt. She did her best and still supported them even at the cost of her own life if not for her being there Ian and Barely wouldn't have defeated the curse.

[@RyBrown]

She's a good character, I just feel like the character model is overused for her.

[@neonbat666]

I'm glad to see more positive responses to this movie! While it's not flawless, I really adored Onward, and absolutely loved the ending. I had a hunch that only one of the boys would have time to see their father, and once I saw the scene in the tunnel where Barley talked about his fourth memory of their father, I was glad it was given to him. And it's frustrating to see so many negative reviews and comments about this movie. "It's nothing special, Pixar is losing their touch". I've been seeing so many people labeling it as automatically bad, simply because it's not as good as some other Pixar films, which is a shame, because Onward is a great movie, even if it's not "the best".

[@ManubibiWalsh]

I honestly don’t think this movie is as good as say, Moana or Wall-e, but I also think now it’s fashionable to hate on Disney and all of their properties, and I’m like... so over it. Sure, Disney has made some despicable choices (like the “live action” remakes) but even among those are some pretty nice movies. Sure, Disney is ethically bankrupt, doesn’t mean it’s all bad and they still put out some really charming and entertaining movies most of the time. It was always a company that made its strongest point the ability to bring magic to the spectators, and they can still do that when they make the right narrative choices. The end of Onward was absolutely worth the lower quality preceding it. It was good.

[@neonbat666]

@@ManubibiWalsh I agree! I mean, for me, it's even gotten to the point where I don't even mind the live action remakes that much. I see so many people just hating them on principle. Sure they're not the best, but they're also not "totally ruining my childhood!!!11!!!!" Like, I get why people don't like them, but I also feel like a lot of the animosity is overblown, because, (like you mentioned) it's just cool to hate Disney right now.

[@Can_of_L]

Neon Bat gonna be honest, I thought onwards (based solely on the trailer) was gonna be bad. But after seeing it. You’re right. The way I see it, its solid middle tear poxar. On par with Monsters inc. its no Wall-E, Up or Coco but its still pretty good.

[@nanobotjr]

EllaBean hehe poxar

[@konata26]

I thought it was fantastic. I love fantasy and I felt like they nailed the setting. Maybe it didn't break any molds as far as like the hero's journey or other meta terms, but it doesn't need to. I'd say it's definitely in my top 5 as far as animated all ages movies.

[@Elleohelleoutloud]

Something only hinted at and not fully spelled out; I got the feeling that Barley wasn’t so much lazy or unwilling to grow up, but purposely staying behind to help Ian reach adulthood. So when Ian inadvertently confesses that he thinks Barley is kind of a loser, it cuts Barley extra deep since everything he’s done has been for his brother.

[@soulgalaxywolf1024]

Even if this wasn’t the case, this is officially my head cannon, I love this.

[@dysxleia]

I don't know why everyone gives this movie such a bad rep. When I saw it in theaters, I felt like Pixar was making a comeback

[@legionluciano]

*Bad rap writingexplained.org/bad-rap-or-bad-rep

[@dysxleia]

@@legionluciano wait fr I thought it was short for reputation???

[@dysxleia]

That's strange. Guess I learned my thing for today

[@njdotson]

@@dysxleia it doesn't matter, english changes and stuff and people still understand you

[@dysxleia]

@@njdotson it is interesting to see how things evolve beyond expectation in language though, I think

[@planetomars]

One of my favorite parts of the movie is when Barley, the fearless brother, is terrified and starting to cry because of the worry he has for Ian over the trench. He isn’t afraid of anything, but he is, he’s afraid of his brother getting hurt. Even when they are in the water trap, right when it opens, Barley immediately picks Ian up by his shirt and tosses him up before he himself gets out. It’s the little details like that, that make me really love this movie.

[@LeonardGreenpaw]

My favorite was when he licks his finger and goes to wipe the ink off ian's face. He is such a dad

[@hondo81]

“You’ll never be ready! MERRRGE!!!” one of the funniest lines in the movie😂

[@_IVXX]

Tbh, tinny Braley was one of the funniest things about the movie as a whole 😂 him and those pixie bikers.

[@Halepeno]

That was one of the relatable lines too

[@thesingingfangirl6155]

It was pretty deep for me! As someone whos scared of unknown things too I took that to heart! We will never be truly ready for certain things: Driving, dating, marriage, kids, heartbreak....but we got to take the chance otherwise we'll never be able to live our lives to the full

[@gabbyelentri632]

The scene where Ian plays his dads voice makes me cry EVERY TIME

[@jaydenliberty9536]

It’s so accurate too

[@Can_of_L]

In otherwords: Ian, since he doesn’t have memories of his father hasn’t been able to form a connection with his dad. So his sadness about his dads death steams from a missing relationship rather than a lost relationship. If that makes sense. It isn’t nessarily his dad specifically that he longs for. Barly however, lacks closure. His sadness tiwards his dads death steams from guilt and his own actions. He doesn’t long for a relationship, he longs for a goodbye. So its more meaningful for Ian to give up the one thing he’s never had in order to give his brother the one thing he’ll never be able to get back. It’s no nessesarily that you can’t miss what you’ve never had but more of something along the lines of goodbyes are more important than hellos.

[@savannahgunter5353]

You have a wonderful way with words human I might actually cry

[@abdulbornio3597]

Best analysis ever.

[@rayw.6677]

If I could only like this twice...

[@velvet4299]

Damn this made me emotional 😭

[@kentoytravelph7617]

Very well said! I couldn't agree more.

[@movieguy9458]

Toy Story 4: I have the saddest Pixar ending that will leave you in tears Onward: Hold my wizard staff

[@emma-mz5xm]

Mr.MovieMan 9 YES

[@crisisasp5396]

onward: *hold my van*

[@yeovism]

That rock pile up scene really piled up my tears, and gave me one heck of a good cry.

[@CumbersomeKiwi]

Mr.MovieMan 9 I think we’re done with this joke now

[@buggyhuman]

Dont forget Coco's ending, jeez i was in tears for quite a bit

[@emirethnegrete8316]

I also loved the metaphor when he was crossing the invisible bridge. To me it felt like he always had the ability to achieve greatness, but he held himself back due to fear. The rope symbolizes security, and Barley was able to provide it for a bit. However when he let go, Ian didn’t realize it at first because he is perfectly capable of accomplishing what he wanted on his own. He just needed a little push and to believe that he could do it.

[@cptTK421]

The rope was like one of those training-wheels-breaking-off scenes, or for a more direct allegory, "Don't let go, Dad! Don't let go!" *Dad lets go, but kid doesn't notice*

[@cormorantcolors]

My favorite Pixar movies are Ratatouille and Onward. Maybe it’s due to my personal life experiences, but I think they’re the most uniquely human movies I’ve ever seen.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Excellent choices. They're both very open-hearted films.

[@lex.iii7]

OMG literally the same!! The story, the imagination behind it, the emotional connection and transition, the artistic details and the message they convey. Those two films are incredible in terms of these. I never agree with some “best Pixar movie list” cause Ratatouille was always my first, now with Onward.

[@mephostopheles3752]

Ironically featuring non-human main characters.

[@cormorantcolors]

Mephostopheles That’s what’s so great about Pixar!

[@leokatzzz]

Cormorant Colors I still cant figure out why Ratatouille script is soo good, like think for a sec the concept, a rat who cooks by controlling a chef touching his hairs, its just so weird yet i works perfectly, and when you see the story on action it just makes sense, its incredible how pixar makes a good movie with literally any storyline they can think!

[@megzbartsch411]

Unfortunately Onward is quickly becoming an underrated gem in the Pixar repertoire. And I’m so glad to finally see some positive recognition for it. I really did love it and I think it deserves more love!

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

Is it okay if I didn't like it as much as others?

[@Equalshares]

Or a boring overrated cliche filled disaster . Depending on ones perspective.

[@caspertheghost4458]

@@lancethefilmguy9392 we all have standards, as long as you like it even a little bit and aren't being extremely critical. In comparison to a lot of movies its lacking but seeing its uniqueness and understanding it is important.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

@@caspertheghost4458 I agree. After awhile it has grown on me

[@xblade149]

@@Equalshares or you just being pretentious dickhead 🙄.

[@destinyawaitsx3]

I saw this movie twice in theaters and I rarely do that unless I REALLY like the movie and Onward was one of them.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

I would have continued my Pixar tendency to catch it twice in theaters, if only theaters everywhere didn't close!

[@destinyawaitsx3]

@@Fallingwithstyle1995 I know it sucks! I saw it the second time in 3D! I plan on seeing Pixar movies all in 3D in the future now because it was really an immersive experience.

[@maxmakovka8199]

destinyawaitsx3 same, it is very personal to me too. I learned how to cook for a rat controlling me

[@amazingabby25]

That’s impressive, honesty, every movie has been closed rip

[@Ibara1201]

The movie is very heart-touching

[@galacticjewels7856]

This movie was far more mature than I expected. The scene where Barley confessed to remembering his dad dying, all hooked up to tubes and everything literally killed me. I was so shocked they would include that in a kids movie but it felt so real and genuine. One of my top favorite Pixar movies for sure.

[@rayhamza4107]

Because kids die for real and their parent die for real and pixer is badass like that

[@killerkitten7534]

Oh you think that’s bad? Just wait for Pixar’s next film. If the trailers are anything to go by the main protagonist is gonna die within the first act

[@Roadent1241]

That was the only relatable thing in this film and I tried so hard not to show that it affected me because it's the past why should I keep crying over that. Hopefully one day there'll be a film about an only child who has some success, because I have no idea how to write that fairy tale off my disabled only child self without getting annoyed it's not realistic since I don't know anything different and can't imagine anything different. Honestly thinking about it I guess this is my villain backstory XD

[@KR1298508]

That part was extremely relatable for me. I was too scared to say goodbye to my grandma when I was a child. She also didn't look like herself, and I walked out without saying anything to her. It is what it is, but im just glad this movie had the message it did. Nothing is more special than having a close relationship with your sibling(s)! Twas a very fresh, and funny movie.

[@aniluvswesties]

I LOVED this movie. It was modern, charming, fantastical, but simultaneously ubiquitous and down to earth in its message. The cast was great, the jokes weren’t too raunchy and landed well, and the story was original (something we haven’t gotten from Pixar in ages). I highly recommend seeing this movie to anyone.

[@tardescinefilas88]

appleheadlover 2001 well while I mostly agree, Coco (2017) and Inside out (2015) were also original and for me far better movies. But this review was very good.

[@Blueberry40]

It’s similar to Full metal Alchemist, but it’s still pretty good.

[@garrettcloud]

Ages huh?

[@worldviews561]

YES, GOOD MOVIE TO WATCH

[@sarabaravati5856]

@@Blueberry40 Yeah nothing like FMA message but OK.

[@BelfryBatBones]

People also don't talk about Laurel enough. It was another chance for her to see her husband as well. She knew him for years (presumably) and loved him, but she did everything in her power for her boys to see him even though him missing was probably most notable to her.

[@amanofnoreputation2164]

There is that, but he doesn't represent the same thing to her that he did to his children. One thing that could be said is that, without realizing it, and in their own way, Ian and Barley helps her feel close to her husband in a similar way that Barley gave Ian the support that his father would have wanted to provide.

[@Drew-vr7mb]

Good question ? I think she was happy she could enjoy her nights out again 🤣

[@DearDarkest_Spring]

@@Drew-vr7mb is that a joke?

[@SUPERPIXELPLANET]

Dude, I’m SO glad there’s a community that loves this movie. It’s seriously one of my favorite Pixar movies and that’s saying a lot. I guess it also hits close to home because I’m the second-oldest of 5 brothers lol

[@katjamming7546]

People who hate this movie have never had a connection to their siblings like Ian and Barley have. It hit me hard when Ian starting crossing off his list because I too have never had a real emotional connection with my parents, especially with my father. I never really realised how important my sister has been in my life until then. She has raised me more than anyone and I can't help but feel so lucky to have her.

[@CosmicSteph]

Katjamming That’s how I feel with my older sisters. I love my parents and I’m grateful for the food, clothes, roof over my head, and everything else they’ve provided over the years but whenever it came to emotional support they were always very distant. My sisters are 9 & 8 years older than me so since I was a kid a part of me has always seen them as two mother figures. :,)

[@panickedhonk]

I don't even have siblings and the to do list scene still wrecks me

[@zephyr4254]

wait... people hate this movie!?!?!

[@thefreerepublicofadmiralpr2935]

Zephyr Unfortunately. Who knows the ways of toxic haters? 😂

[@jillmont3342]

U can have an emotional connection with ur sibling and still hate this movie you know

[@RedRobinYum1998]

My husband deeply related to and loved this movie. It has been so sad to see all the negative media around it. Thanks for this take- I really enjoyed it!!

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

You are very welcome. I'm glad to hear that the movie is finding an audience!

[@worldviews561]

REALLY

[@gabbygon4751]

Robin the funny thing is those bad reviews are from people who haven’t seen it because they felt like they already knew what it was by just watching the trailer.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

@@gabbygon4751 Or they just didn't care for it.

[@gabbygon4751]

@@lancethefilmguy9392 a lot of the reviews I read of people that watched are almost all positive and probably 30 percent of those reviews would say that they didn't like it because they didn't like the trailer, but loved the movie after watching it.

[@watakashe6072]

I cried like a bitch throughout the entire movie. I cried when Ian was having a conversation with the recording of his dad, I cried when Ian was checking off the list and the flashbacks started playing, and I broke out into TEARS when Ian watched Barley talk to his dad one last time. I'm not sure why this movie made me so emotional considering I've never really experienced the absence of a parent, or the influence of an older sibling but man, did it hit me hard. While this movie wasn't super strong during it's first act, the third act and ending were really well done, and I don't feel that it's praised enough. The movie felt so personal and I felt that there was genuine effort put into it, and I'm just glad that it's an original film.

[@ladictator6920]

Weirdly, i felt emotional at the part when he left his car. I don't know why and will never know, but i felt the "sad thingy" inside me. The movie was fantastic. i wish i could have seen it in the cinema (the corona virus's fault) . I hope pixar will make another original movie even though it hasn't been successful at the box office.

[@fanime1]

It's because it's symbolic of how much Barley loves his brother. He worked on that car and customized it himself. He gave her a name. But without hesitation, he was willing to sacrifice her for his brother's happiness. It's fucking beautiful!!!

[@airicastarwall1349]

Well, again, part of its failure was due to the corona

[@mightypurplelicious1625]

*sad thingy*

[@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194]

I went to go see this on my b-day w/ my best friend and she literally started crying. Like full on tears running down her face. She started crying again multiple times during the movie but she started crying again AFTER the movie after I explained why Barley put Rise to Valhalla on when he crashed Genevieve. If u don’t know what I’m talking about, Valhalla was the Norse “Hall of Heroes,” which was super symbolic. It showed how much he loved the car, he considered her a hero and he also really wanted to show his dad Gen, but he still loved his brother even more. HE THOUGHT OF HIS CAR AS A FREAKING HEROOOOOOO!!!! DO U REALIZE JUST HOW CUTE AND SAD THAT ISSSSSS?!?! I relate to this movie a lot because I’m adopted and I will never be able to meet my mother but I might be able to meet my dad, which is like bringing him back from the dead. I thought he was dead for the longest time, but yeah at that moment I was really happy. Idk why😅

[@fanime1]

@@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194 Thanks so much for adding this. I only got a chance to watch the movie once before my state went on lockdown so I forgot about the song that played. This is definitely important and adds to the scene.

[@Thanatoastt]

I remember hearing people around me popping up with negative responses when Ratatouille was released, but now it's considered one of their classics. I watched Onward last night and loved every second of it. It's been a long time since I've felt the need to watch a movie again right after its over. I think Pixar suffers under the weight of their own status. Honestly what makes a Pixar movie is how they can pull out the heart of their characters. The notebook scene at the end with Ian was stunning and 100% cemented the movie as one of my favorites.

[@JaceDiehl]

Didn’t know I could love Onward more than I already did. Amazing video Brian!

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

It's such an excellent film. Thank you so much for watching, Jace!

[@westerfrost3701]

Jace Diehl It’s a great movie! I’d definitely see it again.

[@quinnyharls]

I personally- love this movie. My dad died of cancer not too long ago, and when I watched this movie and Barley talked about how he was sick and didn't look like himself in the hospital- it hit me so hard. I really love how this movie captures how hard it is to lose someone so close to you. It does it perfectly..and even if it isn't a perfect movie and isn't the best Pixar film- It's still, well..a good movie, in my opinion.

[@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194]

Nnoice I relate more to Ian in this movie, although I do relate to both characters a lot. Me and my little brother were adopted into an American family when I was about 4 and he was turning 3. I never really got to meet my parents, like I have pictures of my mom and me and my little brother from when we lived in Mexico, but that’s all I will ever have of her. She died when I was young, and I had already moved to the US so I couldn’t be at her funeral. I mean I probably wouldn’t have remembered anything anyway, but I still would’ve liked to know that I had been there. Anyways, my dad lives in El Paso, Texas, but I didn’t find out until really recently, like a year ago. Btw, I’m 15 now. I might be able to meet him soon, but I will most likely give my little brother most of the time, since he needs it. Also, since I am the older one, I have a few memories of our old life, like what my grandma looked like, our old house, and this one memory with my aunt. We were making a little “hot air balloon”, it was just a little basket with one of those heart balloons that come on a stick. Also there was a bear in it. It honestly feels like I have a chance to use the visitation spell, and bring my dad back from the dead, since I thought he was dead for the longest time. Anyways, sorry for the anecdote, just thought I would share😅

[@Roadent1241]

lily davis I hope you get to see him again/for the first time, that he's a great guy, and that you fill up that little void. Have fun! Good luck!!

[@tiiatanner7616]

Onward is not perfect by Pixar standards, but it's way too underrated in my opinion. It has heartwarming and bittersweet ending.

[@buggyhuman]

Lets just be honest; this movie deserved more, it was a cinematic masterpiece

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

I wouldn't go that far my friend. Its great but not that great

[@carmcakes1687]

@@lancethefilmguy9392 :(

[@Raymond-u2c]

I couldn't call it a masterpiece, but I could agree that it's a fantastic Pixar movie.

[@taterman0247]

Finally, a good review

[@lieaparisss08]

Omg agreed

[@jimbolic0809]

I watched the movie last night with my S.O. and it made me cry several times throughout the movie. First scene that made me cry was when the father's legs appeared and interacted with the two sons, and the moment he recognized the drumming was affecting to me. What I LOVED most about this film is obviously the message that your father may well be the person who grew up with you and looked after you and had your best interest in heart. The slow realization that came to Ian with his list of things to do with Dad, and how he initially crossed them out before actually checking them off, was what had me ugly crying, as I too, was realizing the truth along with him. Then the entire scene with Ian insisting that his brother see the father to say goodbye, to show that Ian has had a father/older brother all this time, was what he had always had. When the credits rolled, I couldn't stop crying. I had trouble talking and couldn't express out loud how well done the movie's message was delivered. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate the message was presented. I honestly thought the boys would have their chance at seeing their father. I was blown away with the superior outcome. Amazing. Poignant. Beautiful movie. Thank you so much for making this video and pointing out some of the great touches put into this movie. Made me cry again.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Extremely well-said. It was a superior outcome to everything I had anticipated. Thank you.

[@undergalaxy775]

You put into words how much I adored this movie when everyone else seems to be passing it off as "eh not Pixar's levels". Great stuff! Your speech is absolutely astounding

[@missys090]

His report on the movie literally made me start crying and I haven’t even seen the movie yet. I can’t wait to actually see it and ugly cry my day away❤️

[@OGTanMan]

That's what is really pissing me off now about how people perceive movies based on brand. Yes it does play a part, but just enjoy the movie instead of saying oh, it's not Toy Story

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

@@OGTanMan But it is okay for people to not agree with the popular opinion.

[@OGTanMan]

@@lancethefilmguy9392 people can have their own opinion, just dont be stupid about it. You CAN not like it because you dont like the genre or just didnt enjoy it. But to say it was bad because it wasnt as good as another unrelated movie, is just a no go chief.

[@bryguy07]

My little brother texted me last night saying “The relationship of the brothers in Onward reminds me of our relationship.” So I watched it this morning and was truly brought to tears at the end... Our dad never passed away, but he wasn’t really around. So my goal was to always make sure he was protected, encouraged, and looked out for.. but despite my good intentions, I often came off like Barley - over the top, often overbearing, but always from a place of love. This movie seems to get a bad rap, but it’s the movie that hit me the hardest.. emotionally.. Not everyone has a brother like their relationship, but it made my brother and I just a little bit closer..

[@pillowedchavvy]

There so many bad reviews for this movie, and I'm there reading them thinking "What? Why? This is such a good movie"

[@vicomtexdaae3630]

critics literally suck.

[@armancole2781]

kErMiT tHe fRoG I think the bad reviews are a little over exaggerated. It has an 87% on RT, low for a Pixar Original but high for any other animated studio including Disney animation. Also high for a film in general. Most films struggle to get 70% on RT.

[@jvedvrby1279]

It was such a great movie! I really enjoyed it even found my self a little choked up during some scenes. But I’m a ♋️ so everything makes me tear up lol

[@sandyig6903]

JAE omg sameee

[@bleke7434]

Different opinions lol. Honestly the worldbuilding kind of sucked. So the movie tell us that magic is super hard and Ian still made all the spells in a day? Also the faries didn't know how to fly until they tried for the first time? And the centaur having a normal car speaks for itself.

[@TheApoke]

I really loved how the ending wasn't just a cliche happy ending

[@diegomclane6027]

I almost cried again just listening to this

[@connorhaley9177]

Diego Mc Lane me too!

[@PixelSlayers]

I'm glad this is on Disney Plus. I was afraid many people wouldn't have the chance to see it with everything going on. Going to see this was one of the last things I did before quarantine and I'm glad others will get to experience this gem.

[@phillinsogood]

The manticore was my favorite character I would love to see her get her own short

[@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003]

Philip Moore or spin-off movie

[@clamency1735]

same i found her very interesting as a side character

[@iamsotired.419]

Same!

[@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003]

hi hungry i'm dad I wouldn’t say we need a sequel but more of a spin-off based on some of the side characters

[@ava165]

Yessss

[@kaityjones6830]

I think this story being so personal is the reason some people didn’t like it. For me, I also never met my father, so every time they would speak about their dad i would cry along with the characters. I could resonate with the way Ian was feeling. I think people from very cookie-cutter backgrounds that haven’t experienced the groundwork for the film just weren’t really the target audience here.

[@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194]

Kaity Jones I agree. This story was based on the director’s (I think) real life story. He lost his father at a young age. This story was probably one of the realest, most relatable movies I have ever watched, since I’ve never really met my father, at least, I have no memories with him, since I was adopted at a young age. My parents and family were Mexican citizens but me and my little brother were born in the states. I might get the chance to meet him soon tho, so this movie was really realistic to me, despite the magic.

[@catrocastre8215]

@@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194 :'( somehow that makes me feel worse...hope things turn out okay.

[@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194]

Catro Castre Same here☺️

[@catrocastre8215]

@@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194 yeah! Greetings from Mexico.

[@hi_im_cricket_im_ur_consci2194]

Catro Castre Oh?! Seriously?!? Cool!! Hello from the other sideee!!!!!

[@ferminmarkpousada1455]

The third act and the ending were the best parts of the movie as well Ian and Barley's mom and the Manticore. I just wish the rest of the movie was strong, because I'm ok with the idea of setting in a fantasy world and a quest of bringing back their father for one day, but there wasn't enough laughs or that Pixar magic through the film until the ending. I really appreciate what Dan Scanlon did with this movie and the message, but is not really a strong Pixar film like the Toy Story franchise, A Bug's Life, Monsters Inc, Finding Nemo, etc. Still, it was ok. Better than good dinosaur or any of the Cars movies.

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Fermin Mark Pousada I appreciate the thoughtful analysis! I can definitely agree that much like Scanlon’s last film, the third act is the best part.

[@ferminmarkpousada1455]

@@Fallingwithstyle1995 Here's my ranking if you want to know how much I love the studio: boxd.it/29YqU

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Fermin Mark Pousada Nice rankings! Glad to see Toy Story 4 so high!

[@ferminmarkpousada1455]

@@Fallingwithstyle1995 thanks. I have a very soft spot for the franchise. Besides, it made me cry more than 3, and I loved the message even if it doesn't over top TS 2

[@joshuagonzalez2006]

Fermin Mark Pousada IRYO On Good Dinosaur But You Still Have Some Fair Points On Onward Tho

[@AM-ko4pi]

...as he looks onward.” That final line got me. I was holding up until that final line. This movie got to me and this video was poetic.

[@ilikemovies22]

You put why I loved the ending beautifully.

[@monikakavaliunaite8017]

This movie felt truly real. It wasn't a standard "what if _____ had feelings" scenario that Pixar is familiar with. To me it felt real because the world felt real. It wasn't our world, but with talking fish or our world, but with secret monsters or our world, but with emotions as little people..... It wasn't our world. Onward had a unique world, with complex world building. The manticore is immortal? Well how will she adjust to the changing times? Technology exists? Well how will it affect magical creatures who no longer have to fly or run everywhere or rely on magic?... We didn't need answers to these questions... They don't add much to the story, but they add a lot to the world building which subtly makes it all more believable. Most Pixar movies feel like the characters are just humans, but in animal bodies. A single father lost his son. A couple of guys are working at a factory. A teen girl is having emotional problems / two people who don't like each other need to work together... Replace the inhuman characters with humans and the story will stay the same, the only change will be in the setting. Nothing else. That's not the case in Onward. You can't make these characters into humans because the story will fall apart. If they're human then there's no manticore or old raven path or magic! These characters need to be magical creatures living in a magical, modernised world. That's why it feels so real, it has a realistic goal (a boy wants to know more about his dad) but it's not a human world. The story doesn't work with just humans and that's what makes it special. I've seen this movie used as an example of Pixar starting to go down hill, but I disagree. This is the best Pixar movie to date, because it doesn't feel like a human in an animal setting... It felt magical

[@tophercundith6022]

While I agree, I still think it follows the basic Pixar formula. What if legs had feelings?

[@bleke7434]

Really? I thought the worldbuilding was the worst part. They started good at the begining but then contradict almost all of it. To name a few: mermaids living in suburbs, a dragon in a house made of wood, a centaur with a normal car, the faries flying just in their first attempt, Ian mastering magic in like a day and also that at the end of the day the powers are much better than technology (like the one for making things bigger and making the car fly).

[@bleke7434]

@@tophat6194 They did fly in their first attempt, it was by arenaline, yes, but it still doesn't make sense why they wouldn´t go with that route before, seem like less work than climbng those big motos (also why didnt they have small ones?), also there's the fact that they master it in 1 day and they didn't use it previously in their life.The problem it's that it breaks the premise that "magic was too much work" vs technology. It would be fine if they didn't suddenly just go "huh turns out we do fly huh" and were shown to be training.

[@monikakavaliunaite8017]

@hi hungry i'm dad I stand corrected 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@GwenLei]

@@bleke7434 From my perspective that's a bit akin to saying the humans in wall-e should not have been able to move their feet without training. The muscles and bones are still there. It has just been generations since there was need of using them. From what I saw it seemed they still used their wings for gliding down from shelves and the like but didn't remember the practice of flight. Just in the same way that - though we have the same bone structure and muscles - the vast majority of us would not do well in a sword fight. We've lost the knowledge of it. Not the ability.

[@justsillyrachet1737]

The reason why people have so many divided opinions is bc this movie looks like it is for little kids but it is meant to be for adults,going in I was expecting just a stupid “funny” boring movie that my little brother was going to enjoy,but I came out crying of sadness and happiness while my little brother was bored and annoyed

[@carmcakes1687]

Hahah! Relatable.

[@joeyjerry1586]

Same experience. I thought it was going to be a generic adventure story with no depth but my expectations were positively subverted

[@ledojaeger7474]

I remember seeing what seemed to be mixed-to-negative reviews and feeling hesitant, then I was able to watch it on Disney+ the other night - I laughed, I felt suspense, and the ending even made me cry, and I never cry at movies as a rule! I was confused why the negative headlines. And then I remembered it's because these days everyone seems to be a hyper-critic who can't just enjoy a good thing when we have it

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

Well to be fair people don't have to like what everyone else likes my friend. It is okay to disagree

[@Roadent1241]

How were you able to watch it on D+ six months ago? It only just came out there, and has been on Amazon for the last month or so. US VS UK again?

[@ledojaeger7474]

@@Roadent1241 Yeah, that's probably it - I have no clear memory at the time of it being advertised as US only, but I guess that's how it went at first!

[@Roadent1241]

@@ledojaeger7474 Fair enough. I understand it was supposed to come out like near the start of the year, then pandemic happened and I was thinking "well six months AFTER this is when we expect the DVD to be out so maybe next summer." So the fact it's JUST come out now but you had it back when it was fresh even for cinemas? XD Markets are weird. I can't wait to watch it properly now instead of an awkward watching a projection of friends' Prime copy over Skype XD (she's in a different country atm so massively socially distancing that watch XD) DRM means she couldn't just screenshare. That's caused a lot of trouble. Now I can watch it in proper colour 'cause it looked good~

[@ledojaeger7474]

@@Roadent1241 Yea, worldwide releases are what we can hope for, cuz having several months lag between countries means all the more chances for spoilers and things to hit the internet and ruin it for a whole people group XD in any case I hope you enjoy watching it properly for the first time!

[@MutantMasterRace]

Onward is underrated tho everyone says it was bad but I think it's one of the better Pixar films of the last year or so.

[@MrBooshot]

I love this movie. When the trailer came out, me and my friend thought it was gonna be dumb and just about the brothers trying to get the top half of their dad back. Boy were we wrong. This movie is by far one of the most meaningful Pixar movies to date, and helps me appreciate my family so much more.

[@smsbucket4328]

the director relates because he too brought half his dad back to life with magic

[@twilightopal7054]

I’ve been seeing so much negativity regarding the film and it’s nice to see someone talk about it in a positive light for a change! It’s not my favorite Pixar film but it’s definitely one of my favorites. It may be fantastical, but the message of the film is so down to earth and realistic, and as someone who’s an older sibling, I have so much respect for this film and I may have teared up at the end.

[@iditne1096]

I can just imagine after that hug barley carries Ian to a hospital

[@jocielynn824]

I appreciate that people are actually giving this movie the credit it deserves I mean just because it’s not from your child hood doesn’t mean it’s not a good movie this movie had good morals and the structure of a technical classic really good Pixar movie

[@xLs58x]

When the fourth memory came up, sold me on the story.

[@mephostopheles3752]

Onward is up there with my Pixar favorites: WALL-E, Up, Inside Out... It makes me feel those same heavy, powerful emotions, and it does so with arguably one of the more out-of-place settings/concepts of any Pixar film to date. I mean, we’ve had sci-fi. We’ve had superheroes and monsters, toys and emotions. We’ve had magic with Brave, but not like this. This is _old school,_ true-fantasy magic. It’s something new and in spite of (or possibly also BECAUSE of) how cheesy it is, Pixar pulls it off brilliantly.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

I always thought that Walle was Overrated

[@emmaj8337]

I loved how every little think in this movie ended up having a purpose. It has such a creative and finely tuned plot line so that makes it so enjoyable. I liked it a lot

[@beheadedbat4925]

This movie hit me hard. My dad almost died from an aneurysm when I was about 10 and the scene where Barley tells Ian about his dad looking so scary on all those tubes made me cry so damn hard because that's exactly how it was. I didn't understand back then but that time we walked in was a goodbye to my dad in case he didn't make it. My dad had a miracle recovery in the end, and he's still with us but that was the scariest moment in my entire life. Amazing movie, Pixar really did a great job on this one.

[@emmalovesdisney1914]

I'm so glad to hear your dad made it

[@jessiedraco8727]

one of the movie endings that genuinely broke me. You're right. We saw through everything with Ian's perspective, so when he was trying to catch a glimpse of his dad it hurt me. Like Ian we accepted that Barley deserved it, but that we also had to salvage what we could with the moment. Him limping up the rocks trying to see through the tiny gaps. It hurt. And I love this movie so much. Seeing it again rekindled that hurt

[@SammyM-vb9nd]

You did it. Made me cry for a third time over this movie. Thank you so much for these TEARS

[@deepwebbarbie]

this movie made me break down during multiple scenes, something not most films are able to do. my father and I have a very close relationship and I always think about what will happen when he’s gone. one scene that gets overlooked is when the father realizes he’s standing in-front of his sons. that moment of realization really stuck with me. not only does the father realize he’s with them, but he also realizes they found the gift of magic. the ending was beautiful and I was very happy barley got that moment.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

Would be better if Ian was there too

[@p1nkPallas]

I, being a British child, saw Onward today in the Cinema and it is officially my favourite film!

[@kimackerman2183]

How come many people didnt like Onward?! I loved it and the story is so sad yet beautiful that maybe many people can relate.

[@vibez3453]

This makes me realize how amazing this movie truly is.

[@GrimSoulBanisher]

This has cemented itself as my personal favorite Pixar film. It hit me on a personal level. I have two brothers. I still have my father. My parents are still married, but he was in the military. He was there, but at a distance. Many times I would have a band concert or a play I was in and he would be on the ship, halfway across the world, but my brothers were there. Same goes for their concerts, baseball games, etc. We were there for each other, even though we fought regularly. I respect my Dad and love him very much for what he did, but I have a bond with my brothers and this movie drove that home for me.

[@spencergage95]

Glad that a number of KZbin personalities "got" this movie, since it seemed like some people just didn't, so they thought it was mid-tier Pixar. I don't understand that at all, frankly. One insight I'd like to add is that at the beginning of the movie, Ian wants to see his dad because he has this sense that he's missing a lot of good qualities (being assertive when necessary, confidence, etc.) due to not knowing him. It isn't until the end that he realizes that Barley passed down not just their dad's love of magic, but all of the skills Ian wanted that his dad, had to him. Without drawing attention to it or telling him directly, Barley filled in as the father figure that Ian needed to grow into who he was meant to be. That means so much to me because I've felt like Ian a lot in my life, and it wasn't really until seeing this movie that I was finally able to realize that there were plenty of men in my life that filled in those fatherly roles, even though I didn't realize it at the time.

[@davidbanford8705]

The way you said the last word "onward" made me hold a tear in the back of my throat, just like the film did at the cinema, (the night they shut down them all because of the virus). There is no doubt this will become a classic once it gets a fair viewing.

[@TheQueenofScream4]

This is by far one of my favorite Pixar movies! I had the chance to see an advanced screening of it in theaters and it left me in tears! I’ve been telling everyone at work to see it!

[@andresmejia1976]

This movie hit me hard on the ending when I was a kid my family was in a divorce and I did not see dad much so when I was home with my mom my brother was kinda like a dad to me

[@hannahstarinieri1351]

Pixar always makes me cry. I’ve cried at just about every Pixar film. Onward created a beautiful world and great characters and it’s just an amazing movie.

[@denadakinanti8925]

I thought i was done crying over onward! You make me cry again!

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

My apologies, Denada!

[@buzzy7338]

I never usually cry at movies but Onwards ending did. It just hit me in a spot I never knew I had. I thank Pixar for that.

[@user-xn9vp3xe4x]

The ending is the reason why Onward is great. This gives a beautiful message.

[@beaubrines]

The ending for me was such a huge twist and was the first time I’ve actually felt something in a animated movie in a long time

[@rocketman1015]

This movie is really underrated.

[@anyastar8]

THIS MOVIE MADE ME CRY! Very touching. Very nice family movie. I didn't expect that we'll enjoy this.

[@PaperManlet]

This movie hit me hard. my dad passed away about half a year ago, character was also around 16, just kinda real to me. I give it a 10/10

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

Sorry for your loss my friend. Praying for you and your family

[@LeonardGreenpaw]

Everyone keeps saying how great it is because they can relate to it. I have no memories of my father, he died long ago and I never really cared. I have no siblings. I couldnt really relate to this movie at all. But it still made me cry my eyes out. Thats some true power right there. The true power of stories is not to tell you something you dont know, but to make you experience something you never knew. Ian talking with the recording of his father broke my heart. It was such delicious pain. This was without a doubt one of the greatest movies I have seen

[@forrestcoleman2700]

I’m so glad to see some good publicity on this movie. I feel it doesn’t deserve the hate it’s getting for multiple reasons, and this puts another one in my pool. Very well put!

[@hannahtheslytherin179]

This is in my opinion one of the most emotionally raw pixar movies out there. It felt so genuine despite the fantastical universe it was set in and I think that’s what really makes it a masterpiece! This movie was immersive and wonderful and it’s now my new favorite pixar movie!

[@adondriel]

I really liked this movie. This movie isn't just about the clear cut ending that is there. There is also that feeling of what happens between 2 siblings as they grow up. Like... My sister and i used to fight constantly, over stupid shit. As we grew up, we eventually became best friends, and looking back all of those petty squabbles feel so silly. We eventually realized that we were the ones that will always be there for each other, no matter what, and the small things just melted away.

[@diabeticman2194]

I watched Onward the other day, and while I wouldn't say it's my favourite Pixar film, it's one of those films where the third act is beautiful. Everything set up from acts one and two come together so well, and the characters where all really enjoyable and well written. It's not quite in the Pixar Hall of Fame for me, but it was an enjoyable watch

[@farah_lynn]

Just saw this on Disney+ and I loved it, Honestly I'm kinda saddened by the fact that it probably has/won't get the attention it deserves due to it being rushed out of theaters and everyone is so focused on Covid-19. It was pretty nice to be able to stream it early though!

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

Glad to hear you were able to see and enjoy it! I agree- it's such a shame how external circumstances outside of the filmmakers' control have severely impacted a movie YEARS in the making. But hopefully it continues to find a following :)

[@soysource3218]

It kept the feels tension really high. Constantly giving something for us to think about. Such as when Barley spoke of his one sad memory of his dad. I really liked it. It had some really nice morals.

[@shiro_kitten9298]

I honestly thought it was cute. It portrayed grief of losing a parent young, & how it can affect people, & the bond between siblings. Also, I liked how it was tru about how different siblings r & I also REALLY REALLY liked how it brought more attention to D&D & Magic The Gathering. Also, I liked how it shown the bigger siblings (as goofy as he was) played the part as a step in dad/big brother, b/c that's what older siblings do honestly. & as being the oldest of 5 younger brothers, it's ALOT like being a parent. Also I liked how it showed accepting grief & moving past that in a positive way. I genuinely enjoyed this movie, & loved the down-to-earth plot. I gave it a 9 out of 10 honestly.

[@aster_angel]

Honestly, this is my new favorite movie. I couldn't watch the movie without tears, unlike all Pixar movies. This didn't need any villains, this has realizations about Ian even though he didn't get to see his father. But his brother Barley, was still there acting like a father figure.

[@ace1diots]

Onward is one of my newest favorite movies and I love it.

[@katiecooper1387]

Onward is now one of my all time favourite movies, maybe my favourite Pixar movie. I practically sobbed watching it. The story is so, so beautiful! Fantastic vid. You put this together really well!

[@naome3904]

just watched this movie and cried for ten minutes straight, zero exaggeration

[@crooked7592]

I watched this movie the other night, and i have to say it was one of my favorite Pixar movies. Had me crying for hours!

[@somedude3822]

One of my favorite parts about this movie that I don't see a lot of people talk about is the scene where Barley sacrifices his car. Not only was Guinevere his handcrafted pride and joy, Barley also mentioned it was one of the things he wanted to show his dad when Ian was making his list. It just adds another element to the things Barley gave up in the movie for the greater good.

[@roseslove1362]

Thank you so much for giving this movie the recognition it deserves. When I saw it, I actually felt like I got something out of it other than just the usual feelings you get from watching a Pixar movie. I related to Ian on an unexpected level, and just watching the movie taught me how to be more comfortable in my own skin just BECAUSE of the character. So, just because the film doesn't ring to a bunch of people, does't mean it does not ring to others.

[@alittlerainny]

I’ve literally seen this film 5 times now. Twice in theatre and I recently bought it on digital. It really hits a soft spot for me

[@Y2JFan94]

This video gave me more reasons why I LOVE this movie than I already have. Thank you....this was beautiful!

[@Fallingwithstyle1995]

You are welcome!

[@batguy7893]

One of my favourites movies of all time

[@claudia711]

the last line was genius, it was really powerful

[@nigelrichardson4327]

What makes me like this movie a lot is that reminds me of the invaluable relationship I have with my twin brother. We’ve had our rough patches but we know it’ll get better if we keep moving onward. As we charge onward into the future we’ll always be there for each other despite what quests we decide to embark on throughout our lives.

[@MadameNanas]

As if the movie didn't make me cry enough, your review has me bawling! Especially with the realization of Barley and Ian's outcomes. With them (if I may borrow a lesson I learned from Princess and the Frog) not getting exactly what they wanted...instead finding what they need. Thank you for the clarity on this beautiful, wonderful film.

[@spicybiscuit5530]

I loved Onward, with the characters, settings, humour and the relationship between the brothers. As someone who's just started college and has recently lost someone, I could probably relate to this more than some other people. Ian's attitude around people at school and not having enough self-confidence at doing new things is something I can relate to, which is something I really hadn't had before with other Pixar films. Sure, it's not as good as many other Pixar favourites, but it's not the worst one out there. There are some really good messages throughout though, like Ian learning to be content with what he has now and letting Barley have one last moment with their dad. But also the fact that our two male characters are allowed to show emotions like sadness.

[@miles7885]

I was NOT expecting it to be good honestly. It’s really good and i would DEFINITELY watch it again

[@SamAsMe]

It broke my heart when Ian couldnt see his dad, but seeing how you put it in this context I can appreciate that creative decision much more, it was hard to watch but it does work better for completing the arch of the story and characters in a meaningful way.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

I disagree. It should have ended with both brothers talking to their father

[@sylviabanks7700]

Wow. Watching your video helped me understand why they named it “Onward.” Thank you for this!