Up – Review

Animated films are a mixed bag.  Sometimes they offer an escape from everyday life.  Sometimes they remind us of our childhoods and dig up feelings long forgotten.  But sometimes, once in a blue moon an animated film comes along that not only offers an escape and digs up memories forgotten, it reminds us of what’s really important in our not so animated lives.  Up is one of those films.  It not only entertained me for 96 minutes, it reminded me of all the reasons I get up in the morning.  

Up tell the story of Carl Fredricksen, a soul fascinated by the possibility of adventure and exploring undiscovered lands.  When Carl is a young boy he meets a high strung young lady named Elie, who like him, lives for adventure.  The two of them form an unbreakable bond and spend their entire lives together, but never quite find the time for the adventure that they promised themselves they would one day embark on. Upon Elie’s passing, Carl takes a leap of faith and decides to use his house as a giant hot air balloon that he raises off the ground using the helium balloons he sells at his day job.  Only Carl has a stowaway, Russell, a wilderness explorer trying to earn his kindness to the elderly badge.  Carl’s plans are instantly changed and he is forced to reevaluate his what is actually important.

There is no possible way that I could illustrate just how incredible a film Up is in a simple review.  I enjoyed every second of Carl’s journey and was touched by the solid writing and sense of wondrous possibility it created.  Edward Asner was perfect as the voice of Carl, and Jordan Nagai and Bob Peterson also rocked as the voices of Russell and Dug.  Do yourself a favor and rush out to see this amazing killer film as soon as you can.  You won’t be disappointed.  

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