Onward

The story focuses on a traditional sibling relationship and the memory of a deceased father. It lacks prominent LGBTQ+ characters or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities, maintaining a conventional family structure.

Laurel Lightfoot challenges traditional gender roles as a competent and hardworking member of the family. The narrative emphasizes her ability to act and resilience, shifting the focus from patriarchal leadership to female empowerment.

The fantasy setting uses anthropomorphic species as a proxy for diversity. While avoiding human racial markers, the lack of explicit representation of multiple human identities limits the score.

The film critiques modernity, portraying technology as a force that erodes tradition and spirituality. It explores the tension between modern progress and the loss of cultural magic.

Themes of grief and invisible loss touch upon mental health. However, there is no explicit representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities with specific ability to act.