Up
Released May 2009
Directed by Pete Docter and Bob Peterson
Starring: Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
First Viewed May 2009
I knew from the previews that “Up” would require a certain suspension of reality. The premise of a house traveling via countless helium balloons is an impossible one, albeit something the kid in all of us wants to do. What I didn’t expect were the surprisingly meaningful moments scattered throughout. A simple and beautiful montage of Carl and Ellie’s life was especially moving; I had tears in my eyes. That was probably one of the best-told 5 minutes of animation I’ve seen.
The story centres on a grumpy old man, Carl, who escapes the confines of a retirement home and his lonely existence by heading off to Paradise Falls, South America. This also happens to be an emotional trip, as by going, Carl keeps his promise to his beloved late Ellie, whose dearest wish was adventure.
Along for the ride is a young boy scout, Russell, whose insistence crossed with the well-meaning naiveté and stubbornness of a child manages to be genuine and endearing.
We are caught up in an adventure involving the rescue of an exotic bird and a loyal and lovable mutt named Doug.
“Up” is delightful, moving and funny, but I had trouble with the “bad guy”, Charles Munz. It was never really explained how or why this man has numerous dogs with talking collars, and the fact that at one point the dogs fly fighter planes was just a little too much. I guess my biggest problem was that while most Pixar movies are clever, meaningful movies masquerading as kids’ movies, “Up” really did seem like it was geared to children sometimes. It lacked that intelligent seamlessness throughout.
