Onward is a solid mid-tier Pixar film that got lost in the pandemic shuffle but deserves a look if your family is ready for a story about grief, brotherhood, and finding magic in the ordinary. It's not Toy Story or Inside Out level, but it's genuinely touching and handles heavy themes with care.

The grief angle is real—this isn't background sadness, it's the entire plot. If your kid has lost a parent or grandparent recently, tread carefully or save it for later. But if they're ready, it's actually a beautiful way to talk about loss, appreciating what you have, and how father figures come in many forms.

The fantasy-suburban mashup is fun enough to keep kids engaged, and the emotional payoff lands. It's a good family movie night pick when you want something with substance but also adventure and laughs. Just know you're signing up for feelings, not just fun.