The release of a new Pixar movie is always much anticipated around our house.  Even though our kids are a little older now (middle school & junior high), they still count down the days.  To be honest, I like Pixar movies as well.  I love their creativity, animation, and the positive messages that lie underneath the scripts.

So, with much pomp and circumstance, we made our way to the theater to witness the latest Pixar offering–UP.  This one was a little different, though, as it was in 3D.  The movie tells the story of a grumpy old widower who’s world has disappeared.  His wife has passed away and his house is being surrounded by a building project.  Faced with the inevitable relocation to a retirement home, Carl Fredrickson decided to fulfill his lifelong dream (and a promise he made to his wife) and launches his house into the air via thousands of balloons to Paradise Falls in South America.  Little does he know that a young Wilderness Explorer name Russell has stowed away. 

After arriving, Carl and Russell must pull the house to the other side of the falls.  Along the way, they encounter an evil hunter who tries to kill them.  While I won’t spoil the ending, eventually things work out (like you thought that they wouldn’t!)

As far as the animation goes, UP certainly measures up to the high standards of Disney and Pixar.  The animation doesn’t seem to break any new ground except for the 3D effects (which are very good.)  I think that 3D movies will become more and more popular as the technology advances (of course, a 3D animated movie doesn’t measure up to U23D.)

I believe what sets UP apart from most animated movies is the story and symbolism.  The beginning of the movie is actually kind of sad, as Carl loses his wife and his purpose in life.  Finally he meets up with Russell, who doesn’t have a dad or anyone to help him earn his badges.  As Carl pulls his house through the jungle, he lives with the burden of fulfilling his promise to his wife to visit Paradise Falls.  Eventually, Carl must choose between sitting in his house on the edge of the falls or saving Russell from the villain.  It is only when Carl leaves the past behind (symbolized by his house) does he find a new purpose in life.  At the end, Carl and Russell become great friends as they both fill the missing pieces of each others life.  Every adult will completely identify with the struggles that Carl faces.

Overall, UP is an absolutely fantastic way to spend a couple hours, both for kids and adults. 

Rating: 4 Stars