Up - 4 out of 4 Stars

Who Would Love This Movie: folks who loved Wall-E, people who want visually stunning animation and solid storylines

Best Mood to Walk In With: Thoughtful and ready for an adventure

Don't See This Movie If: You want a completely silly animated movie and don't want to deal with some more emotional themes


People talk about the "Golden Age of Disney" in reference to the 90s animated features like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Aladdin. However, with gems like Wall-E and Up, I feel a Disney renaissance (rebirth) emerging. True, cartoony 2-D is gone as are the sing along songs we all know and love. Yet new strengths are emerging to replace these beloved characteristics, like deep emotional connections to characters and thought provoking storylines.

Although I saw Up in 3-D, I think it is enjoyable in any format depending on taste. The characterization is what truly makes the movie. Although we enjoyed singing with Ariel and laughing with the Genie, we weren't nearly as invested in these characters as we are with Carl (the old man) and Russell (the young boy). Think The Lion King times 10 if you didn't see Wall-E last year. However for this summer's Disney flick, I was tearing up in the first 15 minutes of the movie, because of the beautiful and tender depiction of Carl's life. However, the tears I did eventually shed are perfectly balanced with the consistent laughter Russell and his animal friends bring to the picture. Disney definitely proves it knows how both youngsters and dogs behave and the truth presented is hilarious.

Also, while I love the flat animation of old Disney movies, the things Pixar can do now amaze me. We still get the fun cartoon colors, but with more movement and vividness. Up is a true visual feast with its attention to detail.

While all the actors lending their voices to this film were incredible, it is necessary to give special snaps to Ed Asner. His voice is rich with emotion the entire way through and it is difficult not to be swept into the story he tells. This is my favorite Asner project by far.

Keep Your Eyes Closed For: Not a thing :)
Keep Your EARS Open For: Anything that Dug the dog says

Up is a brilliant and imaginative adventure. As part of the audience, you get a chance to explore life and enjoy all the laughs and tears and relationship building it has to offer. I recommend it for everyone.

Movies Are Life. ~ K