Seen on: May 29, 2009

The players: Director: Pete Docter, Bob Peterson, Writers: Bob Peterson, Pete Docter, Tom McCarthy, Voice cast: Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, Christopher Plummer, Delroy Lindo and John Ratzenberger

Facts of interest: Pete Docter also directed "Monsters, Inc."

The plot: Carl Fredricksen decides to finally fulfill his dream and explore the globe. But instead of catching a plane ride, Carl builds his own transportation by tying thousands of balloons to his home.

Our quick thoughts: Pixar’s latest animated family film “Up” is a delightful, intriguing big-screen adventure you’ll quite simply never forget. It’s a marvelous experience that enchants children and adults alike, and it boasts an emotionally unique story stuffed with memorable characters, plenty of action and a delicious humor that causes many laughs.

Yes, I really loved this movie, and even though it didn’t surprise me as much as, let’s say, “The Incredibles” or “Finding Nemo,” it proved to me yet again that the folks at Pixar are undoubtedly the best in the animation business. And when I say the best, I mean they are masters at creating visually stunning treasures with incredible storytelling.

Filled with emotions and suspense, “Up” centers on Carl Fredricksen, a grumpy 78-year-old widower who decides to abandon city life to fulfill his late wife’s dream and travel to South America. Rather than taking the plane, however, Carl decides to take his entire house, and before he knows it, he finds himself embarking on the biggest adventure of his life.

Indeed, as soon as Carl lifts off, “Up” quickly transforms into a surprising big-screen extravaganza, and what follows is a wildly entertaining story about a sad man who goes on an exciting trip that will eventually guide him towards his lost happiness. It’s quite a simple story line, really, but it’s one with a huge heart.

Accompanying Carl on his adventure are a young, chaotic wilderness explorer, a talking dog and a huge, exotic bird, and each of these characters carry several essential qualities that make them unique and in many ways hilarious. You can trust me when I tell you that watching them all interact will at times have you roar with laughter.

“Up” also marks Pixar’s first animated release in 3D, and the quality of the visuals certainly delivers the goods. Technically, the film is a marvel, and everything from direction to art direction, editing and sound is in every way flawless. The voice cast is just as perfect, with the great Edward Asner the way as Fredricksen.

Freaky quote: "You got a 'run away in terror' badge?" – Edward Asner

The final word: “Up” is a great cinematic experience both parents and their kids will enjoy to the fullest extent. As usual, it’s a moving Pixar flick with a strong message and tons of fun, and as usual, it offers you everything you would expect for the return of your money. Whatever your plans are this weekend, put this one on the list. It will really cheer you “Up.”

Article by Franck Tabouring