It’s hard not to gush about a movie when it does everything right and while “Up” is not quite as good as “Wall*E,” it’s a wonderfully magical movie that’s destined to be the best animated feature for 2009. It’s certainly better than “Monsters vs. Aliens,” the next “Ice Age” sequel and any number of other animated movies due out this summer. “Up,” full of real emotion and substantive ideas, is an uplifting adventure about an old guy, a kid, and a house that sails through the air. Through a wonderful opening montage, we learn that Carl and his wife Ellie, who met as children, were soul mates and that the two had always planned a trip-of-a-lifetime to a magical place in South America. Now that Ellie is gone, a lonely Carl (voiced by Ed Asner) decides to take this trip by attaching thousands of balloons to his house and floating to South America. A few days before take-off, Carl is visited by young Russell (a perfect Jordan Nagai), an overly enthusiastic scouting type who needs one more merit badge to complete his collection. In his zeal to get this badge, Russell becomes an unwitting stowaway on Carl’s great adventure and soon proves himself an invaluable companion.
Under the careful direction of Pete Docter, every detail of the movie is inspired from the brilliant colors of the rare bird that Russell names Kevin to the talking dogs that greet Carl and Russell. Anyone who loves dogs will enjoy the clever way their dialog is handled. And if you’re looking for a deeper meaning, you’ll find more than one. From the trademark Pixar animation to the colors, the humor and emotion – all are outstanding. If you haven’t seen “Up” yet, you’re missing out on a wonderful experience. 5/30/09
1 comment:
I believe that this animated film was made as much for adults as it was for children. The trailers were all made to attract kids but in watching the movie there is deep narrative and thought provoking messages that one might find in quality dramas of the 1940-50's. I don't know where Pixar keeps coming up with their ideas for their films but they are wonderful. Pixar is the very best in a very competitive business. I give it a 5 bagger (popcorn) out of a possible 5.
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