Up Review

Published by Jeff Leins on: June 3rd, 2009

We’re nearing the halfway point of the year now, but as 2009 winds down in December and cinephiles start to compile their “Best Films” lists the discussion will likely turn to why Up should be on top.  It clearly floats above the year’s best so far and belongs among the favorites at the always reliable Pixar Studios.  It’s truly a remarkable film.

Unfortunately when lists and nominations are compiled every year, they often overlook the realm of children’s movies that continually inspire generations of future film lovers.  This sweet story is an exceptional piece of storytelling that just happens to be animated, a component that should be seen as one of the many reasons why Up is so special.  The craftsmanship in Pixar’s first 3-D venture tops even their usual lofty ambitions, bringing their attention to detail to new heights.

Their latest is uniquely great, meaning it might be time to start comparing Pixar’s films to each other as they distance themselves further from the mere computer-generated cartoons.  At this point, it simply wouldn’t be fair to either side to put a marvel like Up against the celebrity-riddled voice work of other animation imitators.  Ok, enough Pixar gushing…

We meet the film’s hero, Carl Fredrickson, at the age of eight.  He’s a shy boy with an adoration for flying and an admiration for explorer Charles Muntz.  On a stroll home from a matinee filled with wondrous tales of uncharted skies, Carl meets another adventure enthusiast named Ellie.  She immediately welcomes him into the exclusive aviation club and together they turn an abandoned building into a housing for imagination.

The encounter fosters a lifelong relationship told through a beautiful montage of tender moments.  Without using dialogue, the sequence establishes the characters in mere minutes better than most films are able to do in hours.  It’s a testament to powerful editing and the brilliance of directors Pete Docter and Bob Peterson that 15 minutes into the movie I already had tears in my eyes.  The emotional impact is such that it will affect even the most skeptical adults, not feel too morose for children, and set the tone for a more personal ride across the world.

After a cheerful life of mutual happiness, the now alone and 78-year-old Carl (voiced by Ed Asner) withdraws to a daily routine of seclusion in his brightly-colored home full of memories.  Finally, surrounded by city development workers and nursing home attendants, Carl ties thousands of balloons to his house that lift him away on his next adventure.

Accompanying him is a stowaway Wilderness Explorer named Russell, who eagerly wants to earn his “assisting the elderly” merit badge.  Instead he’s a clumsy nuisance and a perfect opposite when setting up the many hilarious punchlines.  They soar among the clouds on their way to Paradise Falls, the South American vacation destination Ellie and Carl dreamed of one day visiting.

When they arrive, they meet a rare bird Russell fondly names Kevin and a goofy dog named Dug capable of talking through a technologically-advanced collar.  Of course neither of them are much help.  Kevin (who happens to be a mother) snatches bites of chocolate while Dug is distracted by the possibility of squirrels.  The motley crew of fantasy characters makes their way across the lush landscape, often narrowly escaping the relentless pursuits of a sinister Muntz and his pack of hostile talking dogs.

Up is a wild ride (considering the protagonist’s age) experienced along a simple story that is equally magical and moving.  There are more laughs to be had than most comedies and more engaging action than the explosion-fests usually dominating summer theaters.  I was struck by its depth of character and profound message and delighted by its child-like innocence.  This movie is a must see for all ages.

5 out of 5.