ReasonForOurHope

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Sunday Best: Movie 2009




Up


I read one reviewer who said, “They don't make movies like this anymore.” It is sad but true. This film is so moving and magical that I am having trouble describing the joy I found in it. Despite having a terrible title, Up is another in a long-standing tradition at Pixar to create amazing movies. It's the story of Carl Fredrickson, a widower who decides to move his house to South America by using helium balloons Caught up in the adventure is young Wilderness Explorer Russel, whose wide-eyed enthusiasm is the perfect foil to Carl's curmudgeoness. While the plot sounds run of the mill, the execution is extraordinary. The first 20 minutes remind us, mostly with flawlessly executed visuals, that time is not on our side and that life's opportunities will pass us by before we know it. We feel Carl's loss so keenly, we can't help but be with him in his sour disposition on life. It is a true joy to see Carl slowly come alive by looking out of his own misery and into the needs of the people he cares about. When the house does get to South America, Carl and Russel engage a series of adventures involving a talking dog, a giant bird, and other perils upon peril. But what makes Up so special is its gigantic beating heart. Like Russel, this movie is filled with love and awe. I was equally devastated and elated by this film. I truly believe anyone who sees this will have a wonderful adventure. Cross my heart.


RUNNERS UP
(500) Days of Summer – Completely original and insightful, witty and woeful. Excellent
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince – Funniest and most tragic of the series
Star Trek – A great adventure that gets better with repeated viewing.
Watchmen – Best possible adaptation of the Alan Moore/Dave Gibbons masterpiece.

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