Carl Fredricksen is a grumpy old man, a widower in his 70s who dislikes how his neighborhood is changing. The former balloon-maker eventually gets evicted from his decades-old house, but before he can be brought to a retirement home, he executes an ingenious escape plan. Using hundreds of balloons tethered to his house, Carl launches his home into the sky and maneuvers it to
Yes, in that reality, balloons can carry a multi-ton house, one of a few fantastical, science-defying ideas that we just accept unhesitatingly. “Up” is colorful and lively, a heartwarming tale about missed opportunities, lasting friendships, and realized dreams. As with other great animated features’ stories, the film explores simple but easily identifiable concepts like freedom or the pursuit of happiness. Those are complemented by a solid script, making us root for and relate to the movie’s unlikely adventurers.
In just a few minutes, Carl Fredricksen’s life with his wife is told using just visuals and music, expressively highlighting their times of joy and loss. Especially saddening are brief but powerful scenes, including one set in a clinic that implies the couple’s inability to have children. It also depicts Carl as a tender, reassuring presence, even when his wife became seriously ill years later.
Unlike that backgrounder, eight-year-old Russell’s story is told in his own words, but it briefly and succinctly sums up his situation: he’s neglected at home, which is why he spends most of his time exploring the outside world.
The adventure is not without menaces; the villainy of a tragic figure threatens to cut short Carl and Russell’s unusual journey. And it’s one shared trip that viewers won’t soon forget. Moving and enchanting, “Up” is a high-flying treat for the young and the young at heart, whether you’re eight, 78, or thereabouts.
“Up” will be in Metro Manila cinemas starting August 19. Also, catch the animated short “Partly Cloudy,” preceding every screening.
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