Rating summary

Movie		4.5
Video		5.0
Audio		4.0
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.5

Onward 3D Blu-ray Movie Review

An outstanding fantasy-adventure achievement by power-house Pixar (Brave, Toy Story)

An exciting adventure for the entire family to enjoy, Onward features a unique fantasy world with two elf brothers who set out on a perilous journey to try and get some magic that could ultimately bring back their father (for one special day together). Ian Lightfoot (Tom Holland) and Barley Lightfoot (Chris Pratt) are thrust into peril and excitement at every turn. Though Barley has some memories regarding his father, Ian never had a chance to truly get to know him. Can the pair overcome the dangerous obstacles in front of them (such as a monstrous dragon) and see their father one last time?

One of Pixar's most entertaining efforts, Onward is a must-see fantasy-adventure that has plenty of action and comedy (in good measure). Directed by Dan Scanlon (Monsters University), the film is significant for how it explores the nature of sibling friendships in a unique way: Onward has an important message regarding family. Executive produced by the great Pete Doctor (Inside Out, Up), Onward is consistently hilarious, exciting, and engaging from start to finish. It even features a terrific score composed by real life brothers Jeff Danna (The Addams Family, Storks) and Mychael Danna (Life of Pi, Monsoon Wedding). This is an adventure for the entire family. Don't miss it.

"Check it out! Onward for Best Picture #2020 was trending!"

For more information on the feature-film, please refer to the review by my colleague Martin Liebman.

Onward 3D Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on 3D Blu-ray from Walt Disney Home Entertainment, Onward has received a 1080p MPEG-4 MVC encoded presentation in the original 2.39:1 widescreen theatrical aspect ratio. This is a truly entertaining, fun, and creative 3D presentation. As with other Pixar productions, the 3D is used for added depth. The presentation has some occasional pop out effects that are interesting but some viewers might consider it to be a rather reserved 3D presentation.

In my view, Onward looks even better in 3D as a result. There are no issues with banding or crosstalk on my display and the image is highly immersive from beginning to end. The pivotal dragon sequence is especially potent in 3D and leaves a big impression. There are also several key scenes that make the experience all the more memorable as the characters face-off against Indiana Jones style quests (and some other added "magic" as well: including an invisible bridge). The 3D continually charms and is worth the price of admission. The 3D presentation is the best way to experience Onward.

Onward 3D Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 3D Blu-ray release includes a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround sound presentation. Please note that the disc defaults to a DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 track. Please remember to un-check the track and navigate to the master audio selection (even if one only has a 5.1 surround sound setup the back channels will simply down-mix). The sound quality is quite impressive and dynamic (if also a bit underwhelming with regards to the LFE). For more information on the lossless audio presentation, please refer to the review by my colleague Martin Liebman.

Onward 3D Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

The release includes the same selection of supplemental features provided on the standard 2D disc in the 3D/2D combo pack. Please note that The Simpsons short film "Playdate with Destiny" is not on either of the included discs (3D or 2D). The Simpsons short was shown theatrically with Onward but is not a traditional Disney-Pixar production so it makes sense it was removed for the home media release.

For more information on the included extras, please refer to the review by my colleague Martin Liebman.

Onward 3D Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Easily the best film released in 2020 thus far (with no real competition given the aftermath of COVID-19 closing movie theaters), Onward could surprise us with Oscar gold: sweeping the best picture, best animated feature, and best song categories (just to name a few options). One of the most charming of all Pixar productions, Onward is one of the bright spots of 2020 cinema and a must-own 3D Blu-ray. How could any Pixar fan go without it? Highly recommended.