Up

Disney Pixar is seemingly infallible. It makes great film after great film (well, Cars was just decent). Each movie is incredibly unique, and Up is no exception. It is an animated film that is incredibly touching, and has some very compelling drama in addition to its zany comedy and amazing visuals. It has fantastic characters, including a talking dog and a female bird named Kevin.

Carl Fredericksen (Edward Asner), has dreamed of flying just like the heroic Charles Muntz, and visiting South America since a young boy. He marries Ellie, who shares the same dream. There is a particular waterfall there that both want to see. The two grow old together, and Ellie passes away. Carl's house, who he refers to as "Ellie", is in the middle of a construction zone. After inadvertently injuring a construction worker who touches his mailbox, Carl is set to be sent to a retirement home. Before they can take him away, he attaches an incredible amount of balloons to his house, and flies away. He is not alone, as a young boy scout named Russell (in need of one more badge) was on his porch as the house took off.

The two travel to South America. Upon landing, they meet a dog named Dug who can talk, thanks to his special technologically advanced collar. The trio runs into a rare bird who Russell names Kevin, who actually turns out to be female. A large pack of dogs who can also talk is hot on their trail, attempting to capture Kevin. The dogs belong to Charles Muntz (Christopher Plummer), who wants the bird for himself.

This movie has everything. Adventure, comedy, suspense, drama, and a powerful love story. The relationship between Carl and Russell is as powerful as it is funny. Russell did not have a good father figure in his life, and Carl becomes somewhat of a father (more like grandfather) figure to him. Carl's dedication to Ellie is also incredibly touching, and it is impossible to not root for Carl in his quest to visit the waterfall in South America for her.

Dug provides some excellent comedy as the roly-poly dog with a goofy voice. Russell is also a funny character, as his determination to earn his last merit badge knows no bounds. As for Muntz, what better voice to give to a villainous character than Christopher Plummer? Plummer has one of those voices that is very trusting, but can also become cold and sinister, which works perfectly for the character.

Up is another spectacular entry in the Pixar filmography. It has something for everyone. It has all the adventure of a movie like WALL-E, all the sillyness and comedy of Monsters Inc., and all the touching moments of Ratatouille and Toy Story. It's not a flawless film, but is certainly just as unique and just as entertaining as anything Pixar has done. It is another movie to stand up and cheer for. It may in fact be the most powerful emotional experience of any of them. If the final image of Up does not affect you emotionally, you are completely heartless.

Rating: 9/10