Onward premiere: On the red carpet with Tom Holland and director Dan Scanlon

Tom Holland said it was his dream goal to be in a Pixar movie. And with Onward, not only does his dream come true, but Holland also contributes to the realisation of a magically heartwarming production for adults and children alike. The story is inspired by Dan Scanlon’s loss of his departed farther, and his longing to connect with him. The film explores grief, brotherhood and courage through thoroughly enjoyable animation. A magic quest is at the centre of the narrative, but this doesn’t turn it into an unrealistic fantasy scenario. Through elf-like characters, the tale openly talks about the effects of bereavement at an early age and explores – without prejudice – how the brothers bonded after their loss.

The project sees the return of Tom Holland, voice of Ian Ligthfoot, and his Avengers companion Chris Pratt (who plays Barley Lightfoot) on the same set. It also marks the second collaboration of director Dan Scanlon and producer Kori Rae, the team behind Monsters University. We attended Onward’s premiere at Curzon Mayfair to talk to the cast and creatives about what prompted them to take on this adventurous quest of the Lightfoot siblings.

Tom Holland shared with us what his first Pixar experience meant for him, finding himself again side by side Chris Pratt and what his near-future looks like in terms of cinema’s new releases (Uncharted, Spider-Man 3), before mentioning how he is planning to take a year off to play golf.

Dan Scanlon and Kori Rae told us about the key messages they would like the audience to take home with them, casting Holland and their Ian-style to-do lists.

To the delight of his fans, Tom Holland took the time to speak with them and take selfies.

Cristiana Ferrauti
Videos: Marta Starczynowska

Onward is released nationwide on 6^th March 2020.