Prepare to be surprised when Disney•Pixar’s Onward arrives in theaters March 6th because this fantasy world is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before! Although the film takes us into the realm of classic fantasy, complete with elves, sprites and wizards, it puts a humorous, contemporary twist on everything you thought you knew about trolls, dragons and more. Cardmembers going to see this exciting new film can use their Disney Rewards Redemption Card to redeem Disney Rewards Dollars toward movie tickets at AMCTheatres.com or on the AMC Theatres Mobile App.1
Onward tells the tale of two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt) who use a magic spell to bring back their dad who died when they were very young. If the spell succeeds, they’ll have a whole day to get to know him. Unfortunately, the spell only brings back their dad’s lower half, so they set out on a quest to discover if there is still enough magic left in the world to bring all of him back. But they only have 24 hours to complete their quest. “The idea for this film was inspired by my own relationship with my brother,” says Director Dan Scanlon. “He and I lost our father when we were very young, and my personal journey to understand who I was is the emotional theme for Onward.”
“We researched classic fairytales and myths. Then we figured out which fairytale characters to use and what they would do differently in the Onward world,” Scanlon says. “The story and gag sessions were just so much fun!” Centaurs now drive zippy cars instead of running. Pixies book flights on airplanes instead of using their own wing power. Instead of being rare and beautiful, unicorns are pests. “They’re like dumpster divers with horns,” Scanlon says. “I love them!” Instead of guarding bridges, trolls collect tolls on toll roads. Sprites, who are classically known as mischief makers, have geared up to a whole new level of attitude. “We originally thought we’d put them each on their own miniature motorcycles, but then one of the artists drew them all riding one giant motorcycle, and it was much funnier that way, so we went with it,” Scanlon explains. Even dragons get a makeover. No longer enormous and dangerous, they’re household pets—although, it’s wise for their owners to keep a fire extinguisher handy!
You’ll see the same amusing touches everywhere, even in the architecture, so keep your eyes peeled for humorous details (including the iconic Pizza Planet truck from Toy Story, but with a different name). But Onward is about more than just being funny and entertaining. “Every film we create is a chance to explore specific emotions,” Scanlon says. “Onward is no exception. I think when a film is emotionally truthful, it connects with people in a universal way.”
Connect with the humorous, heartwarming story of Onward, then use your Cardmember savings of 10% off select purchases at Disney store and shopDisney.com to bring the fantasy and fun home!2
