I am a big fan of movies. Sometimes it’s the story. Sometimes it’s the artistry and photography. Sometimes it’s that I can relate to a character. Sometimes it’s simply a good way to escape. In any case – I typically walk out of the theater grateful for the experience. This weekend was no exception.
The recent 90-degree temperatures seemed like the perfect excuse to wander into the Grandin Theater for a little relief and to enjoy the latest Disney-Pixar collaboration – Up. I am so glad we did.
While it’s true, the animated film — directed by Pete Docter of Toy Story and Monsters Inc fame — was made with young audiences in mind – make no mistake – people of all ages will be touched by the story and find amusement in the humor.
Taking an unusual tact, the film revolves around an elderly character — Carl Fredericksen. While the majority of the story depicts Carl as a curmudgeonly old man, in the opening scenes we are treated to 10 (or so) minutes of dialogue free images and music telling the story of his life up to now. This brilliant use of non-verbal storytelling allows the viewer to lovingly sympathize with this grandfatherly amusement park balloon vendor. It is as if they were leafing through a photo album filled with his life from a boy dazzled by adventure to a young man thrilled by the prospects of love and children, to a husband grieving at the loss of his wife, Ellie, and the realization of missed opportunities and unrealized dreams.
As the modern world is building (literally) around him – he is faced with the reality of losing his beloved home filled with irreplaceable memories of his life with Ellie. With his sense of adventure in tact, he takes matters in his own hands – determined to fulfill the dream he had shared with his late wife. His journey is shared with Russell, a persistent 8-year-old Wilderness Scout, desperate to earn his last remaining badge for “assisting the elderly” – in hopes of gaining his absent father’s affection.
As with many relationships between unlikely traveling partners, the trip is filled with amusing exchanges and power struggles. Carl and Russell build a bond as they encounter treacherous storms; a giant colorful bird with a taste for chocolate; a loveable and underappreciated mutt; the beauty of South America; and a pack of – less loveable — dogs under the command of a disgraced “adventurer” determined to regain his fame at any cost.
So, if you are looking for a great way to spend an afternoon with the kids, grandparents or friends, I recommend this delightful – and colorful – film filled with themes of friendship, love, and loyalty.