Onward

Onward (2021)

Released in March 2020 it’s no wonder few people know this film exists beyond it’s posters on the side of buses. Lost in the melee of the encroaching pandemic who could be bothered with a film about a couple of blue elves trying to bring their father back from beyond. But like they say about a good self-help book - you don’t find it, it finds you.

And what a time to find me. After four days of some kind of gastro bug and what I can only describe as Satan’s Detox I found myself sober on a Saturday night with the highlight being a flat coke and a pack of dry Jacobs crackers. It took me right back to the 80s.

And for all those 80s kids or anyone who delights in 1980s adventure (The Goonies, Willow, Dungeons and Dragons) this is for you. It’s nostalgic, optimistic and by god the lesson it teaches packs a mighty punch.

Set in a present-day world that inhabits mythical creatures with the crux being they’ve all forgotten, or rather, forgone magic for modernity. Ungainly teenage elf Ian (Tom Holland) beset with crushing social awkwardness discovers he is blessed with magic and a spell to briefly bring his father back from the dead. Encouraged by his Oracle oaf of a brother (the always charismatic Chris Pratt) they set off on a treasure-hunt crusade to reunite with their dad.

At the heart of this enchanting, persistently funny escapade is a sweet domestic drama which will fill you with cheer.

10 Motorbike-riding Fairy Thumbs Up 👍🏻