Onward2020

“You have to take risks in life to have an adventure.“ Ian grew up not knowing his Dad since he passed away before he was born. On his 16th birthday, Ian discovers a secret gift his dad left for him. A wizard staff, gem, and a spell to bring his Dad back for 1 more day. In the middle of bringing his dad back the spell misfires and only his Dad’s legs appear. Ian and his older brother, Barley, set off on an adventure to find a new gem to bring all of his Dad back jus in time for Ian to finally meet him before time runs out. Ian who is afraid of everything is always at odds with his brother, Barley, who isn’t afraid of anything. Through this adventure you see Ian come to grips that his brother isn’t a screw up, but in fact someone who was always there for him and played a significant role as his father figure.  I’m the final act of the movie, both brothers have to decide which brother gets to see their dad for the last few moments before time runs out. Ian selflessly tells Barley to see his Dad. I’m honestly a bit confused by this. I don’t know why he can’t realize His brother was always there for him AND still want to meet his Dad. Almost seems like he’s just tossing his Dad aside now and doesn’t mean as much to him as he did at the start of the film. Another issue I find in this film is the theme of magic and believing. Long ago magic was a way of life and one day someone invites the light bulb and poof. The magic is gone. I was thinking the movie was going to go in a direction of Santa Claus and if only you believe and have child like wonder you can live in an amazing world. I feel like the magic only played a role in Ian being able to use the magic to advance in his quest and ultimately defeat the cursed concrete dragon. And then that’s it. Nothing more. I felt really let down with this theme.  Pixar though is still producing high quality visual work. Using real-life camera angles that immerses you into the story. But with amazing angle perspective that could only have been pulled off with animation. Visuals were stunning.  Onwards film score wasn’t offensive at all, but also not memorable. Overall I thought visuals were this movies strongest attribute. While the story and themes fell slightly short for me.  3.5/5 stars.