Up (2009)

Pixar has yet again outdone itself with this animated masterpiece worthy of the greats. To me, this was a splendid, albeit rather unexpected ride into the heart of love at its best, and the power it brings those who harness its goodness.

Up is the story of a chance reunion between two star-crossed children who are enamored with the expeditions of one Charles Muntz (voiced by Christopher Plummer, The Lake House, Inside Man), a self proclaimed explorer extraordinaire. The two grow old together, promising to one day visit the spot of Muntzs’ greatest discovery and biggest failure. As fate turns, Carl (voiced by Ed Asner, Elf) becomes a widower, but vows to keep his promise… and take the house with him. From there all sorts of outrageous events happen that truly test the strength of love. Accompanying Carl for the trip is a means well, super ambitious scout who is trying to get his last badge for promotion by “assisting the elderly.” And assist he does. Together they float towards the Amazon to make sure Carl’s lifelong pledge is upheld… even if it means denouncing his boyhood idol.

I really enjoyed Up, and am not ashamed to say that after the first fifteen minutes or so I had tears in my eyes. I definitely did not foresee the sappiness. But it gets much more “up”-lifting, pardon the pun, with the introduction of the young scout. I expected a movie about an old grump, a la Walter Matthau in Grumpy Old Men, who just wanted to get away from it all. Who knew there would be so much colorful adventure? The characters meld beautifully, the animation is flawless, voice overs are superb, story is solid, though not airtight… all in all a fabulous, adventuresome journey to “South America. It’s like America, only South.”

8.7/10

Rated: PG
96 mins.