UP is not a kid’s movie. It’s a serious tale of love, loss, missed opportunities, adventure, and rediscovery. Kids will be wowed by the bright colors, the dogs, Kevin and of course a floating house, but the deeper storylines of death, broken families and the plight of the elederly will surely go right over every rugrats head. Pixar has mastered this art, and UP is yet another gem in their now priceless storytelling crown.
The first 20 minutes of UP tell the gripping life story of Carl and Elle, childhood sweethearts who truly grew old together. They always had dreams of adventure but life got in the way as years passed until eventually it was too late to chase them. Pixar portray’s this sequence in a montauge that will make the hardest man produce a tear and sets the table for a tale that proves you are never to old to come of age. Anyone who has ever been close to a grandparent will immediately connect with UP.
Despite the serious undertones, UP still brings the funny thanks to the animal companions. Most importantly Kevin (the bird) and Doug (the talking dog). Their prescene combines Pixar’s clever comedy timing with cuteness to trick the kids. Listen closely to some of the things the dogs say to one another off screen. Some very classic stuff.
Overall, UP ranks right up their with my Pixar favorites (Wall.E, Nemo, Toy Story). It’s got emotion and smarts which is more than most movies can even fake these days. Go see it. Soon.
10/10
