Up

Up is another successful collaboration between Pixar studios and Disney. They have produced an animated film that has appeal to kids and adults, something that is not always easy to do. Up will appeal to any adult who has had dreams, and has fulfilled them, or not. There is also adventure and talking dogs, which should keep the kids interested. Ed Asner voices Carl, who, along with his wife, dreams of visiting Paradise Falls in South America. If they had their way they would have lived the life of adventure seekers, but of course like most such dreams, life got in the way. Fast forward many years and Carl, now a widower, is about to be evicted from his home due to an altercation with a construction company. It's at this point that Carl decides to fulfill his dream; he attaches helium balloons to his house, destination, Paradise Falls. Unknown to him though, a young boy, a Wilderness Explorer has stowed away, and he is determined to give Carl all the assistance he needs or doesn't need, in order to earn his final merit badge. This film has only positives going for it, an interesting story for kids and adults, great characters, human and not, and a great and poignant beginning, which really sucks you in. In addition to Mr. Asner, Christopher Plummer and John Ratzenberger also provide their voices, and they all add to the enjoyment. I have to say that I'm not always the greatest fan of these types of films as they often are just "too cute" for me. As far as I'm concerned, this one got it just right.

Rating - 3 1/2 Stars